Competitive races could determine control of Wisconsin Legislature (UNDATED)
Wisconsin’s newly drawn legislative maps have Democrats eyeing their best chance in years to gain control of the state Senate. Political scientist Anthony Chergosky of UW-La Crosse says just a handful of competitive districts could decide which party holds power in Madison. Democrats would need to flip several Republican-held Senate seats to win a majority. Chergosky says while control of the Legislature is very much up for grabs, only a small number of races are truly competitive heading into Election Day.
Wisconsin has first ever PFAS groundwater standard (UNDATED)
Wisconsin has its first ever PFAS groundwater standard. The state Natural Resources Board voted unanimously to adopt the new rule which sets a contamination limit of 4 parts per trillion for certain PFAS chemicals in groundwater. The rule must still undergo a passive review process before committees in the legislature but cannot be unilaterally altered or vetoed. Governor Tony Evers says enforceable standards are critical to safeguarding public health. The administration has also launched new grant programs to help communities and private well owners test for PFAS contamination.
Man accused of naked theft of ambulance takes plea deal (WISCONSIN RAPIDS)
A 37-year-old man accused in the naked theft of a Wisconsin Rapids Ambulance has a plea deal. Benjamin Feltz pleaded not contest to charges of recklessly endangering safety and misdemeanor OWI, but will not serve prison time if he completes seven years of probation. Terms include mental health assessments and treatment, plus some 32 thousand dollars in restitution. Feltz stripped down and jumped in the driver’s seat of the vehicle as two paramedics were working in the back, no one was injured in the incident- including the patient.
Rush of AI-generated junk mail hits Wisconsin mailboxes, says DATCP (UNDATED)
Wisconsin residents are getting more and more bulk mail with AI generated images. Wisconsin Consumer Protection administrator Michelle Reinen warns it is easier than ever to make phony images to prompt a reaction from people. Reinen says the same message applies to advertisements for products to political mailers claiming things about particular candidates. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.