Madison, WI – This week, State Senator Jesse James (R-Thorp) celebrated the signing of seven bills he authored into law. These bills improve Wisconsinites’ access to mental health care, strengthen the safety of our communities and our kids, protect stranded motorists, clean up laws governing housing, promote public health, and encourage trust in law enforcement.
One of the most significant bills, Assembly Bill 388, was signed into law as Act 75, creating the legal framework for the $10 million set aside in this year’s state budget for Rogers Behavioral Health to establish a behavioral health hospital in Chippewa Falls. James said, “This is extremely monumental for the people of northwestern Wisconsin. Our community has a renewed sense of optimism after securing this much-needed mental health support for our children and adults.” This bill is the long-awaited result of bipartisan discussion to ensure responsible use of tax payer money.
Additionally, Assembly Bill 201 (now Act 48), was signed by the Governor, creating the crime of ‘sextortion.’ This year, two parents in central Wisconsin lost their son, Bradyn, to suicide as a result of this crime. Earlier this week, I had the privilege to attend and speak at the bill signing ceremony, held right in Bradyn’s hometown. These criminals are targeting our children and have no remorse for the consequences of their actions. “His story has affected everyone who has been a part of this journey in getting the bill passed and signed. Bradyn is a symbol of hope and strength. I will never forget his story or every other kiddo who lost their lives to sextortion. I hope this legislation will raise awareness and deter bad actors, so no child or parent will have to endure a tragedy like this again.” James said.
Other legislation authored by Senator James that was signed into law include: Assembly Bill 409, requiring drivers to move over or slow down for all disabled vehicles, Assembly Bill 136, increasing the penalty for impersonating a law enforcement officer or other emergency personnel, Assembly Bill 424, updating statutes for manufactured home communities, Assembly Bill 273, adding the chairperson of the Physician Assistant Affiliated Credentialing Board to the Controlled Substances Board, and Assembly Bill 153, making improvements to the income notification process for child support. These are common sense, straightforward bills that had overwhelming bipartisan support.
“I take pride in being able to get this type of work done. We still have plenty of time left in session, so I will keep at it and keep trying to improve the lives of people back at home and across Wisconsin.”
