Contact: Britt Cudaback, britt.cudaback@legis.wi.gov, 608-266-0960

(MADISON) – Representative Melissa Sargent (D-Madison) blasted Wisconsin Republicans today for the introduction of bills (LRB-2723, LRB-2720, LRB-2721, LRB-2734, LRB-2151) they allege will address homelessness in Wisconsin.

“It’s appalling that these cosmetic solutions are the best Republicans can muster to address Wisconsin’s homelessness epidemic,” Representative Sargent said. “What are we supposed to say to a high schooler who doesn’t have a home to go home to tonight? ‘Don’t worry, Wisconsin has a Council on this now.’?

“This is just another legislative agenda item Republicans can check off their list, pat themselves on the back for, and tell the people of Wisconsin they tackled the tough issues when they’re running for reelection, meanwhile not a single piece of this legislation will do anything to help someone who’s sleeping on the street tonight.

“There’s nothing here to address the fact that 28% of the homeless population in Wisconsin is under the age of 18, or that 46% are families with minor children—not a single stable housing opportunity is created by any of these bills or provides additional resources for persons or families experiencing homeless. It’s a slap in the face to real people suffering daily for Republicans to pretend they’re addressing this issue and to check this off their to-do list.

“I have and will continue to be a strong advocate for addressing the housing crisis and homelessness epidemic in Wisconsin, and will be introducing legislation later this session to do just that. Given the bill package announced today, I look forward to receiving enthusiastic support from my colleagues across the aisle.”

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