Dems pushing for universal background checks say bill unlikely to get through Legislature

Three Assembly Dems today touted what they call a “commonsense” bill to implement universal background checks, although they acknowledged it was unlikely to pass the GOP-led Legislature. The three also unveiled a statewide coalition that seeks to reduce gun violence through bringing together community activists and applying pressure to lawmakers “from the outside in,” according to Rep. Terese Berc… Please log in to access subscriber content. If you don’t have a subscription, click here for a WisPolitics free trial and to view the different subscription options. Username or E-mail Password * Remember Me     Forgot Password

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Bill to fully repeal prevailing wage gets split reaction at public hearing

The co-authors of a bill repealing the state’s prevailing wage laws said at a hearing today the requirements artificially increase the costs of construction projects. But Dems and union members slammed the bill as an attack on workers that would drive down wages. Sen. Bob Wirch, D-Kenosha, said it would exacerbate income inequality in the state. “Your bill makes it worse, driving people out of the… Please log in to access subscriber content. If you don’t have a subscription, click here for a WisPolitics free trial and to view the different subscription options.

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Walker says he’s got no interest in raising vehicle registration fees

Gov. Scott Walker told reporters today he doesn’t have “any interest in raising vehicle registration fees,” clarifying comments from a media interview last week that he was open to hiking them. Walker said in that interview he “just explicitly talked about the gas tax” and that he doesn’t know of anyone in the Capitol who’s talking about raising vehicle registration fees. He once again said the st… Please log in to access subscriber content. If you don’t have a subscription, click here for a WisPolitics free trial and to view the different subscription options.

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Milwaukee Alderman Pérez: Remembering Frank González

I am saddened to learn that a wonderful man and Milwaukee leader, Frank González, has passed away. I offer my sincere condolences to Frank’s loving family. Frank was a longtime advocate, resident, and family man. He served the south side for 17 years as a commissioner on the Social Development Commission, and also served on the boards of the Bruce-Guadalupe Community School and the Walker’s Point Development Corp. We also remember his dedicated efforts for many years in organizing our near south side 4th of July parade. We will fondly remember Frank’s passion for service and his abundant love for

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MON PM Update: Walker says he’s got no interest in raising fees; Baldwin, Johnson report fundraising numbers

From WisPolitics.com … — Gov. Scott Walker told reporters today he doesn’t have “any interest in raising vehicle registration fees,” clarifying comments from a media interview last week that he was open to hiking them. Walker said in that interview he “just explicitly talked about the gas tax” and that he doesn’t know of anyone in the Capitol who’s talking about raising vehicle registration fe… Please log in to access subscriber content. If you don’t have a subscription, click here for a WisPolitics free trial and to view the different subscription options.

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Rep. Ballweg: National Prescription Drug Take Back day

Contact: (888) 534-0041 Madison… Representative Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) is doing her part for National Prescription Drug Take Back day, April 29, 2017, by raising awareness for local drug take back locations. “It is important to properly dispose of unused or expired prescription medications,” said Ballweg. “Not only do we not want these medications getting into the wrong hands, but we also don’t want them poured down the drain, since these medications could lead to contamination of our water supply.” Drop off locations can be found around the state, and collection programs and events are held throughout the year. Controlled and

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Wisconsin Department of Trade, Agriculture and Consumer Protection: Comments open on Nimitz use on carrots

Contact: Donna Gilson (608) 224-5130, donna.gilson@wi.gov Bill Cosh (608) 224-5020 William2.cosh@wi.gov MADISON – Public comments are open through May 1 on a proposed pesticide registration for a special local need in Wisconsin, allowing carrot growers to use Nimitz® to control nematodes. The registration would help growers control the three species of nematodes that cause injuries to carrots. Nematodes are microscopic worm-like organisms that live in the soil. The conditions caused by these three species reduce yields and deform carrots, making them less marketable to consumers. One of the main products to control these nematodes is unavailable due to production outages,

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Sen. Marklein: Takes a stand and votes “no” on Stewardship purchase

Contact: (608) 266-0703 MADISON – On Monday, April 24, 2017, Senator Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) voted “no” on a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Stewardship Program purchase of 990.55 acres in Dunn County from Northern States Power Company as presented to the Joint Finance Committee (JFC). The request passed the JFC with a vote of 13-2. The JFC approved $1,898,000 or $1,900 per acre and $16,000 appraisal costs. “I support this project and the stewardship program, but I continue to have concerns about the appraisal process and the DNR’s approach to these deals,” Marklein said. “This purchase is yet another

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Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO: Workers and family members to offer their respect at this year’s Workers Memorial Day

Contact: Bill Brockmiller (608) 386-0753 (La Crosse, Wisconsin) – The family members and friends of Western Wisconsin working people who were killed at work will come together Friday to remember those who have best lost and recommit themselves to enhancing protections for those who work for their daily bread as communities around the country and globe commemorate Workers Memorial Day.  City of La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat will read a formal proclamation from the City declaring April 28th as Workers Memorial Day in the City of La Crosse. Attendees will honor their own fallen by sharing their memories and reminding

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Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction: Wisconsin has 15 Presidential Scholar Semifinalists

Contact: Tom McCarthy DPI Communications Director (608) 266-3559 MADISON — Fifteen Wisconsin students have been named semifinalists for the 2017 Presidential Scholars award, considered the nation’s highest honor for graduating high school seniors. “Our Presidential Scholar Semifinalists hail from across the state, a testament to the fine high schools serving our students and their communities,” said State Superintendent Tony Evers. “These soon-to-be graduates, with support from their families and teachers, have shown exceptional academic ability and talent in the career and technical education fields. Congratulations on your accomplishments.” The Presidential Scholars program was established in 1964 to recognize and honor

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Democratic Party of Wisconsin: Wisconsin Republicans limp through Congressional recess

Contact: Brandon Weathersby brandonw@wisdems.org (608) 260-2409 MADISON – Democrats are riding high off the energy of progressive grassroots activists getting more engaged on the ground and Sen. Tammy Baldwin successfully standing up to President Donald Trump and bending his will to supporting her “Buy America” legislation. The momentum follows incredible swings in special Congressional elections held in Kansas and Georgia this month. It also comes as Democrats finished criss-crossing the state speaking to their constituents at successful local town hall meetings. Republican members of Congress, on the other hand, are limping back to Washington after a disastrous Congressional recess. When meeting with constituents, Sen. Ron

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Republican Party of Wisconsin: Another high-profile Democrat passes on run for governor

Contact: Alec Zimmerman (608) 257-4765 [Madison, WI]— Yet another high-profile Democrat is taking a pass on a run for governor.  Wisconsin Radio Network reported that Congressman Mark Pocan would not run for governor in 2018.  Additionally, Pocan was quick to criticize the disarray of the Democrat Party of Wisconsin for failing to field a candidate for State Supreme Court. Read excerpts from the story below or online here. Pocan nixes running for governor Wisconsin Radio Network Bob Hague April 21, 2017 Wisconsin Congressman Mark Pocan won’t be running for governor. The Madison Democrat said Thursday that the state party dropped

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GOP leggies file amicus brief in redistricting case

Wisconsin GOP lawmakers urged the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a ruling that struck down the Assembly map as a partisan gerrymander, warning allowing it to stand would “extinguish any last hope for state autonomy in the redistricting process.” Otherwise, the amicus brief warned, the difficulty of navigating “partisan gridlock and legal roadblocks” would mean the federal courts would regularly dr… Please log in to access subscriber content. If you don’t have a subscription, click here for a WisPolitics free trial and to view the different subscription options.

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Gov. Walker: Seeks applicants for Outagamie County judicial vacancy

Contact: Tom Evenson (608) 266-2839 Madison – Governor Scott Walker announced today he is seeking applicants for appointment to the Outagamie County Circuit Court. The new appointee will replace outgoing Outagamie County Circuit Court Judge Michael W. Gage, whose resignation is effective July 9, 2017. The new appointee, should he or she choose to run, would be up for election in April 2018. To apply, please submit the following: Cover Letter Resume  Two Writing Samples Judicial Application: found on Governor Walker’s website:  www.walker.wi.gov. (Select “Contact” at the top of the page, “Apply to Serve Wisconsin,” and then “Judicial Application”) All application

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Gov. Walker: Seeks applicants for Columbia County judicial vacancy

Contact: Tom Evenson (608) 266-2839 Madison – Governor Scott Walker announced today he is seeking applicants for appointment to the Columbia County Circuit Court. The new appointee will replace outgoing Columbia County Circuit Court Judge Alan J. White, whose resignation is effective September 13, 2017. The new appointee, should he or she choose to run, would be up for election in April 2018. To apply, please submit the following: Cover Letter Resume  Two Writing Samples Judicial Application: found on Governor Walker’s website:  www.walker.wi.gov. (Select “Contact” at the top of the page, “Apply to Serve Wisconsin,” and then “Judicial Application”) All application

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Milwaukee Alderman Pérez: Remembering Frank González

I am saddened to learn that a wonderful man and Milwaukee leader, Frank González, has passed away. I offer my sincere condolences to Frank’s loving family. Frank was a longtime advocate, resident, and family man. He served the south side for 17 years as a commissioner on the Social Development

Read More »

Rep. Ballweg: National Prescription Drug Take Back day

Contact: (888) 534-0041 Madison… Representative Joan Ballweg (R-Markesan) is doing her part for National Prescription Drug Take Back day, April 29, 2017, by raising awareness for local drug take back locations. “It is important to properly dispose of unused or expired prescription medications,” said Ballweg. “Not only do we not

Read More »

Sen. Marklein: Takes a stand and votes “no” on Stewardship purchase

Contact: (608) 266-0703 MADISON – On Monday, April 24, 2017, Senator Howard Marklein (R-Spring Green) voted “no” on a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Stewardship Program purchase of 990.55 acres in Dunn County from Northern States Power Company as presented to the Joint Finance Committee (JFC). The request passed the

Read More »

Democratic Party of Wisconsin: Wisconsin Republicans limp through Congressional recess

Contact: Brandon Weathersby brandonw@wisdems.org (608) 260-2409 MADISON – Democrats are riding high off the energy of progressive grassroots activists getting more engaged on the ground and Sen. Tammy Baldwin successfully standing up to President Donald Trump and bending his will to supporting her “Buy America” legislation. The momentum follows incredible swings in special Congressional elections

Read More »

GOP leggies file amicus brief in redistricting case

Wisconsin GOP lawmakers urged the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a ruling that struck down the Assembly map as a partisan gerrymander, warning allowing it to stand would “extinguish any last hope for state autonomy in the redistricting process.” Otherwise, the amicus brief warned, the difficulty of navigating “partisan gridlock

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Gov. Walker: Seeks applicants for Outagamie County judicial vacancy

Contact: Tom Evenson (608) 266-2839 Madison – Governor Scott Walker announced today he is seeking applicants for appointment to the Outagamie County Circuit Court. The new appointee will replace outgoing Outagamie County Circuit Court Judge Michael W. Gage, whose resignation is effective July 9, 2017. The new appointee, should he

Read More »

Gov. Walker: Seeks applicants for Columbia County judicial vacancy

Contact: Tom Evenson (608) 266-2839 Madison – Governor Scott Walker announced today he is seeking applicants for appointment to the Columbia County Circuit Court. The new appointee will replace outgoing Columbia County Circuit Court Judge Alan J. White, whose resignation is effective September 13, 2017. The new appointee, should he

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