Hesselbein will lead state Senate Democrats (MADISON)
State Senator Dianne Hesselbein (HESSEL-bine) will transition from Minority to Majority Leader in the next legislative session, with Democrats holding an 18-15 advantage. he Middleton Democrat promises a new direction with her party in control after what she says is 16 years of Republicans only pursuing tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy, rather than delivering great public services. But Hesselbein also says Democrats are ready to work with Republicans, and that she’s already met with newly elected Minority Leader, Senator Julian Bradley. Beloit Democrat Mark Spreitzer (SPRITE-zur) will serve as state Senate President when the new legislative session opens in January. Democrats also have a new majority in the Assembly, and Governor-elect David Crowley completes their trifecta at the Capitol.
Assembly Dems pick Minority Leader Neubauer as new Assembly Speaker (MADISON)
Racine Democrat Greta Neubauer (NEW-bower) is the next state Assembly Speaker. Neubauer says Democrats are set to deliver policy as soon as possible. Neubauer says her caucus will reintroduce bills they’ve attempted to pass through the Republican controlled legislature, including free school meals and increased public school investment. They also plan to repeal Wisconsin Act 10 and restore bargaining rights for public unions. Neubauer has served as Minority Leader since 2022. Democrats will have 53 seats in the Assembly and full control at the Capitol for the first time in 16 years, with a Senate majority and Governor-elect David Crowley.
Wisconsin among nation’s best for vet employment (UNDATED)
Wisconsin ranks among the nation’s best for veteran employment. Wisconsin is now ranked among the top three states in the nation for helping veterans find and keep jobs. Governor Tony Evers says the state has remained in the top five for four straight years under a U.S. Department of Labor measure that tracks employment services for veterans. State workforce officials say more than 63% of veterans who used Wisconsin employment services found jobs during the most recent program year. Wisconsin is home to about 300,000 veterans.
November is National Scholarship Month in Wisconsin (UNDATED)
November is National Scholarship Month in Wisconsin. Students and families can receive assistance to make higher education more affordable. The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and Higher Educational Aids Board are encouraging students to complete the FAFSA, apply for multiple scholarships, and watch out for scholarship scams. Scholarships can significantly reduce education costs and limit the amount students need to borrow for college or career training programs.
Funding available for northern Wisconsin businesses impacted by summer wildfires (UNDATED)
The U.S. Small Business Administration is encouraging northern Wisconsin businesses impacted by this summer’s wildfires to apply for federal disaster loans. SBA spokesperson Monica Myles says many business owners are concerned about whether customers will return and whether they’ll be able to stay open after the fires. Low-interest loans are available to businesses, most private nonprofits, and other eligible organizations in seven counties, including Burnett, Douglas, Polk, and St. Croix. The application deadline is July 22nd, 2027.
Veterans Service Officers can help vets navigate benefits (UNDATED)
Today is Veterans Day, and in Wisconsin there’s local help for those who’ve served to access benefits. Navigating veteran benefits can be complex. Located in each of Wisconsin’s 72 counties and 11 Tribal nations, Veterans Service Officers are dedicated professionals who assist veterans, service members, and their families in accessing the benefits they’ve earned. That includes healthcare, disability compensation, pensions, and education as well connecting vets to state benefits – such as Wisconsin’s Veterans Homes, property tax credits, and employment services. Find out more at dva.wi.gov.