A state lawmaker is raising concerns about proposed cuts in consumer protection.
The governor's state budget plan would reduce staffing at the Division of Consumer Protection by 25-percent. State Senator Luther Olsen (R-Ripon) worries having fewer people on staff could impact the help available to the public, by delaying assistance on vital consumer protection issues.
DATCP Secretary Rod Nilsestuen admits it could create some problems when it comes to dealing with complaints. However, he says the agency is already looking at ways to provide services with less staff. Nilsestuen says that just because the agency has less people, it doesn't mean the state is going to "roll over and play dead" on consumer protection issues.
During a briefing in front of the Legislature's Finance Committee on Thursday, Olsen questioned why they'd reduce funding when calls to the Department have been on the rise in recent years. Nilsestuen says they are necessary because of the state's massive budget deficit.
Consumer Protection handles reports on issues ranging from identity theft to violations of Wisconsin's Do Not Call list.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 1:01)
