Criminal complaints have been filed against four women who are current or former state prison inmates, for filing fraudulent state homestead tax credit claims. All but one of those fraudulent claims were filed for a year in which the claimant was incarcerated, according to the state Department of Revenue. DOR’s Stephanie Marquis can’t comment on the specifics cases, but that’s the sort of thing that may stand out. “We’re looking for red flags,” says Marquis. “We’re looking for inconsistencies . . . for things that don’t quite make sense. [Read more...]
Recess isn’t the only place for games at school
March 24, 2010 By
Digital and new media games are already part of kids’ recreational time at home. A research group at UW-Madison is looking at ways to integrate this activity into the classroom. Moses Wolfenstein with Games, Learning and Society looks at games such as World of Warcraft, its methods of interaction and potential applications in education.
Rural hospitals may see benefit from health reform
March 24, 2010 By
An organization representing Wisconsin’s rural hospitals is “cautiously optimistic” the health care reform legislation signed into law Tuesday will help its members. Despite Wisconsin having a relatively high rate of insured, Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperatives says the new law will have more of an effect on rural Wisconsinities.
Bill consolidates recreational OWI penalties
March 24, 2010 By
Are Wisconsin laws dealing with intoxicated operation of boats, ATVs and snowmobiles too complicated? That’s what lawmakers are hearing at the Capitol. “Right now . . . it’s confusing, I could not believe it,” said Randy Hardin of Sheboygan, chair of the Governor’s State Trails Council. “It was almost what phase the moon was in, to figure out what ticket to write. That’s how complex it seems.” Hardin served on a task force which was charged with bringing some consistency to the current regulations. [Read more...]
Bill ensures consumer choice in auto repair
March 24, 2010 By
Consumers should have choices when fixing their damaged vehicles.
That’s the topic of discussion at a capitol hearing. Democrat Pat Kreitlow of Chippewa Falls says it’s important to consumers to have control over where they spend their money. He says when individuals need their car fixed, they should be allowed to shop around and find the best deal.
“Unfortunately that is not the case when it comes to the vast majority of insurance covered auto body repairs in Wisconsin. Under current law the power to choose an auto repair shop lies primarily with the insurance company and not the actual consumer — the person who owns the vehicle that’s been damaged and who’s been paying the premiums.” [Read more...]
