Sen. Harsdorf: Reflecting on 2015
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send your username and password to you.
A Column of Personal Opinion by State Senator Sheila Harsdorf
Beginning a new year is not only a time to set new goals but also a time to reflect on the year gone by. As we reflect on 2015, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight some of our state’s successes and accomplishments.
– Job Creation and Workforce Development – Increased investment in broadband and worker training grants, and provided state support for St. Croix Valley Business Incubator.
– Wisconsin’s Business Climate – In CNBC’s ranking of best states to start and grow a business, Wisconsin climbed from 29th in 2010 to 15th in 2015. Wisconsin’s ranking according to Chief Executive Magazine rose from 41st in 2010 to 12th in 2015.
– Tax Relief a Priority – Continued focus on fiscal responsibility and holding the line on spending in an effort to control property taxes.
– Reducing Red Tape – Passed the Physician Interstate Compact which will expedite the physician licensing process, improving access to specialists and health care, especially in rural and underserved communities.
– Honoring Veterans – In recognizing the sacrifices made by our veterans, passed additional funding to assist veterans seeking a degree and reentering the workforce.
– SeniorCare – Preserved SeniorCare through continued state funding to maintain this cost effective prescription drug program for seniors.
– Education – Increased K-12 funding by $200 million above the original budget proposal, and an additional $4 million for Sparsity Aid and $2.5 million for rural school transportation.
– Substance Abuse and Mental Health – Addressed the growing heroin epidemic in Wisconsin with the H.O.P.E Agenda – Heroin, Opiate, Prescription, Education – while reforming and modernizing the state’s mental health laws to improve treatment and accessibility of services.
– Tuition Freeze – Froze tuition for a third and fourth year for students attending University of Wisconsin campuses in an effort to keep higher education affordable.
– St. Croix Crossing – Approved the remaining financial commitment for the St. Croix Crossing due to be completed in the fall of 2017.
As we begin a new year, I look forward to working to build upon our successes. Your involvement in the legislative process is key to our success. As always, I encourage and welcome your input. Please stay in touch by visiting my website at www.harsdorfsenate.com or calling my office at 1-800- 862-1092 or 608-266-7745.