The State Senate will vote Tuesday on three bills supported by the League, and your call or email to your State Senator will help get them passed. The Senate Calendar for Tuesday, November 5, 2019 includes:
SB 49 This proposal protects children who have been trafficked. Under this bill, a person who is under the age of 18 may not be prosecuted for committing an act of prostitution. Advocates for the change point out that a person under the age of 18 cannot consent to sexual behavior and therefore should be considered a victim of sexual assault instead of a criminal. A criminal charge would further traumatize a child who already has suffered trauma and threaten the child’s chances for a healthy transition to adulthood. While this bill failed in three previous legislative sessions, Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Hills) and Sen. LaTonya Johnson (D-Milwaukee) have joined forces this year to support the legislation. Tell your Senator to vote YES on SB 49.
SB 125 This bill provides for funding of up to $5,200,000 for Warren Knowles-Gaylord Nelson Stewardship 2000 Program, with priority given to the state parks that are highest in demand. LWVWI is a longtime supporter of the forward-looking and effective State Stewardship Program. During its 25-year history, the program has preserved nearly 650,000 acres of valuable habitat for public use and benefit. The League supports this needed investment in the state’s scenic beauty, extensive parks systems and recreational opportunities. Tourism is a significant driver of Wisconsin jobs and the state economy. Clean public facilities and well managed parks are key to continued success. Tell your Senator to vote YES on SB 125.
SB 166 This bill makes physicians and dentists who agree to practice in free or charitable clinics eligible to participate in an educational loan assistance program administered by the Board of Regents of the UW System. The bill addresses the growing need for affordable, quality healthcare for all Wisconsin residents. Tell your Senator to vote YES on SB 166.
Contact your State Senator now if you agree with the League on any of these bills. You can find your Senator by typing your address into the “Who Are My Legislators?” field on the state legislature’s home page or by calling the Legislative Hotline. In Madison, dial 266-9960. Toll-free, call 1-800-362-9472.
