20120523144150303

Downing, Karley - GOV
From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

Sent: Friday, June 03, 2011 9:25AM
To:
Cc:
McGinn, Barbro - COMMERCE; Volz, David J - COMMERCE
Werwie, Cullen J - GOV
Subject: Re: Reinhart FoodService
I spoke to the company yesterday, and am expecting a call back
From: McGinn, Barbro - COMMERCE
Sent: Friday, June 03, 2011 09:23 AM
To: Volz, David J - COMMERCE
Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV; Schrimpf, Chris- GOV
Subject: FW: Reinhart FoodService
FYI
From: LADCO -James Hill/ Jennifer Kuderer [mailt
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2011 2:54 PM
To: McGinn, Barbro - COMMERCE
Subject: Reinhart FoodService
Hi Barbro,
As a follow-up to our communication this morning, we want to repeat that Reinhart FoodService wants to hold a meeting
with their employees before any information is released to the news media. The company is very concerned about
making sure everything is confidential until they have taken these steps. So, we just remind that the draft release should
stay confidential until Reinhart releases it.
We also believe that your thoughts regarding a visit by Governor Walker or Secretary Jadin to make the good news
announcement in the near future will be well received. We encourage you be in contact with Mark and Bruce on this and
we are happy to help where we can.
Please let us know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
James P. Hill, Executive Director
Jennifer A Kuderer, Associate Director
La Crosse Area Development Corporation
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From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV
Friday, June 03, 2011 6:22 PM
Murray, Ryan M - GOV
Sent:
To:
Subject: Daily Policy and Legislative Briefing
Legislative Affairs Team
Representative Coggs will be meeting with the Human Services Team to talk about the details of her idea on a
task-farce to help re-train minority workers.
JFC should be through with the budget either late tonight or early tomorrow morning.
Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Team
Commerce
Wisconsin-Switzerland Trade Mission
o Received letter from the Ambassador to Switzerland inviting you to visit Switzerland on trade relations
Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC)
o Interested in further developing its partnership with Wisconsin industry, state government and education
regarding workforce development and commerce issues
Bio Conference
o Working with WI Technology Council and BioForward on specifics and on schedule
DOR
TIF Districts
o Answered questions from the Mayor of Osseo on a TID they want to amend to reflect annexed land.
o There was a problem with the timing of the application being before the land was officially annexed, which
made DOR deny the application.
Branch Legislation
Tourism
o DOR has provided a preliminary analysis of the motion by JFC.
o They have identified a number of technical changes that could be made.
Met with WisDOT to discuss freight rail initiatives and potential legislation about road weight limits.
Contact with a business owner concerned about road weight limits. Subsequently made contact with the City
of Stanley and Town of Thorp regarding his concerns.
United Performing Arts Fund "Ride for the Arts"
o Badger Meter, Inc. sent letter thanking the governor for his support of the ride for the arts
PSC
Wind Siting
o PSC put together wind proposal and will be meeting informally with stakeholders to hear and gather their
thoughts and ideas
Energy Production
o Governor Parnell of Alaska wrote a letter to Governor Walker requesting him to craft a letter (similar to his
and sent to the Alaskan delegation) urging increased domestic energy production
JOBS Hotline- 2 calls received
Human Services and Education Team
DCF
Meeting with Jim Leonhart regarding Early Childhood incentive for "Read to Lead".
4
Education
Evers met with WEAC, and they are on board with the concept of school grading. Contacted Kestell and Olsen about the
newspaper op-ed
Education News:
The Long Reach of Teachers Unions (EducationNext)
"If you think it's far-fetched to suggest that a teachers union could play the role of political kingmaker, think again. The
largest political campaign spender in America is not a megacorporation, such as Wai-Mart, Microsoft, or ExxonMobil. It
isn't an industry association, like the American Bankers Association or the National Association of Realtors. It's not even a
labor federation, like the AFL-CIO. If you combine the campaign spending of all those entities it does not match the
amount spent by the National Education Association, the public-sector labor union that represents some 2.3 million K-12
public school teachers and nearly a million education support workers (bus drivers, custodians, food service employees),
retirees, and college student members. NEA members alone make up more than half of union members working for local
governments, by far the most unionized segment of the U.S. economy."
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From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV
Tuesday, June 14, 2011 8:45 PM
Murray, Ryan M - GOV
Sent:
To:
Subject: Daily Policy and Legislative Briefing
Bills Passed Today in Senate Session
SB 93- concealed carry (25-8). (Dem support: Halperin, Jauch, Lassa, Taylor, Vinehout, Wirch)
SB 107-landlord CCAP usage preemption (18-14). (No Dem Support)
SB 109- increases in penalties for soft tissue injuries to law enforcement officers (Voice Vote).
AB 148- bill to pay the bills. The Senate is expected to give final passage to this legislation at some point tonight.
It will then be ready for action by the Governor.
Assembly Session
The Assembly is scheduled to begin debate on the 2011-2013 biennial budget later this evening.
Economic Development and Regulatorv Reform Team
Commerce
WiscNet
o Tom Still frorn the WI Technology Council contacted our office in opposition to the JFC's action restricting
WiscNet
BioGenesis
DATCP
o Jason, Nate, Commerce and DNR met with BioGenesis reps about a company contract situation with the
EPA and their interest in having operations at the Milwaukee Harbor
o Gave them some suggested contacts of organizations throughout the state, as well as DOT, DNR, and
Commerce contacts
o BioGenesis removes the pollutants from dredged material and sells the cleaned material as topSoil
o The firm is based in Milwaukee and owned by an Iranian scientist who fled that country when the Shah
was overthrown
o Raw Milk Enforcement Action
DOT
o This morning DATCP executed an enforcement action against a farmer in Racine County who was selling
raw milk illegally to Illinois.
o The owner admitted to operating the illegal racket
o Ashley Furniture TEA Grant in Whitehall
o DOT has not heard from the Village of Whitehall regarding the TEA grant we had discussed earlier
o DOT is reaching out to the Village to see if there is interest in starting the application process
PSG
Wind Siting Working Group
o PSG received a response from the WI Realtors Assn.
o There remain great differences among the parties involved in these talks
Wisconsin State Telecommunications Association
o Named new President, will send congratulatory letter from the governor
Health Care and Education Team
1
Feedback from the DHS budget town halls will be posted by the end of the week on the DHS website. A new addition on
the homepage will be Medicaid data that will be updated weekly. The Office of Integrity will be up and running with a start
date of September 1'
1
.
Meeting with Forbes Mcintosh and Jeff Schoenfeldt: Discussed suggested vetoes and language that they would like
kept in the budget. Passed notes to Schutt and Murray.
DWD:
Secretary Scott Baumbach was confirmed by the Senate 30-1-2.
Education:
Met with SE WI Schools Ass'n today in Milwaukee. We addressed questions from roughly 30 members on
everything from choice to school finance.
1. They would like to hold small workgroups with our office and education stakeholders on specific issues.
2. Another specific suggestion was to share your long-term education policy platform. They are one of many
groups that have wanted to know what your education vision is for the next 4 years. They asked how our
various education initiatives fit into your broader plan for education in Wisconsin. We may want to discuss
this further to review our education messaging and see if we should expand on how certain education
initiatives (such as the SIS, school grading, Read to Lead, etc) fit together.
DHS Newsworthy:
GOP Governors ask Washington to give states more flexibility on Medicaid (Fox News)
Frustrated with the rising costs of providing health care to their poorer constituents, Republican governors from 29 states
sent a letter to lawmakers in Washington on Monday demanding greater flexibility in administering Medicaid dollars.
DWD Newsworthy:
ManpowerGroup survey: Local employer hiring to be brisk (The Business Journal)
Milwaukee area employers expect to hire at a "brisk pace" during the third quarter and make the region the third-best job
market in the nation, according to the latest ManpowerGroup Employment Outlook Survey.
Education News:
Martin wasn't forced out, Reilly says (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
University of Wisconsin-Madison Chancellor Carolyn "Biddy" Martin was not forced out of UW, despite being embroiled in
a high-profile battle for flexibility in the face of state funding cuts, according to UW System President Kevin Reilly.
Martin, who led an unsuccessful effort to split UW-Madison from the rest of the UW System, announced Tuesday she is
leaving her post at UW to be the president of Amherst College.
Opinion: "Waivers" Are Fine ... Back-Door Legislating Via "Strings"? Not So Much (Education Week)
By Rick Hess
There seems to be some confusion about the problem with our earnest Secretary of Education's chest-thumping promise
to take things into his own hands if Congress doesn't fix NCLB by August. The problem is not that he's pledging to waive
some of the law's goofy provisions. Noone is disputing that he's empowered to do so (see, for instance, Mike Petrilli's
take here).
So, what is the problem? It's that Duncan has said that he plans to attach "strings" to those waivers, so that states will
have to adopt his priorities in order to gain flexibility. He has clearly signaled that he regards this as a back-door
opportunity to promote his preferred approach to teacher evaluation, the Common Core, and such with or without
Congressional permission. This is what has so infuriated observers.
Duncan Warns Schools on Banning Gay-Straight Clubs (Education Week)
On Monday night, the school board in West Bend, Wis., agreed to allow students at West Bend High School to form a
gay-straight alliance if students who had been previously barred from doing so dropped a federal lawsuit against the
school district.
Mr. Duncan's letter to school districts was accompanied by legal guidelines from the Education Department's General
Counsel Charles P. Rose. It follows an October 2010 letter to districts about how bullying, in particular of students who are
lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, may violate students' civil rights. ("Bullying May Violate Civil Rights, Duncan
Warns Schools," Oct. 26, 2010.)
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Justice and Local Governments Team
Local Governments and Property Taxes:
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter. Ziegelbauer in favor of proposed budget
Ziegelbauer believes the collective bargaining changes- that Assembly leadership said will be put into the 2011-13
budget, if necessary- and other fiscal changes "will put us back on the path to prosperity almost immediately.
"(They will) get our financial system back under control without raising taxes and creating the kinds of incentives that will
stimulate economic activity in Wisconsin, especially compared to other states."
Stevens Point Journal. Stevens Point Area School District budget could change
Though taxes in the Stevens Point Area Public School District would drop under a preliminary 2011-12 budget passed
Monday, district leaders cautioned the numbers are in flux and will change somewhat before the budget is finalized.
The Stevens Point Area Public School Board approved the preliminary budget by a vote of 8-0. Board member Lisa
Totten was absent.
The district's levy would drop by about $1. 7 million under the budget, lowering the corresponding mill rate by 44 cents to
$7. 93. That means the owner of a $100,000 home would pay $793 in school taxes.
Appleton Post Crescent. Appleton teacher contract extension on hold
The current contract, which was approved in March, expires June 30. The contract extension would cover the 1,050
educators represented by AEA July 1 through June 2012.
"It has to do with the insurance carrier decision-making process," Hietpas said of the sticking point for both sides.
"Otherwise we're pretty well in alignment."
Appleton's current carrier is WEA Trust.
When the AEA and the school board met two weeks ago to exchange proposals for a contract extension, the union
offered to have educators pay 12 percent of their health insurance premiums starting Sept. 1., as well as a 5.8 percent
contribution toward their retirement benefits.
Chris Heller, AEA negotiations chairman, told the board Monday that he had been authorized by union leaders to "offer
economic concessions that will more than close the gap in regards to next year's budget concerns."
Appleton anticipates an $8 million reduction in revenues next school year.
Wausau Daily Herald. Firefighters reach deal on union contract
The agreement gives a 1.75 percent wage increase to the union's roughly 50 members, retroactive to Jan. 1. It does not
increase firefighters' insurance contribution from 10 percent to 12.6 percent, nor does it require union members to pay 5. 8
percent toward their retirement.
The city's Human Resources manager, /Ia Koss, said the city asked for both the police and firefighter unions to contribute
toward pensions, but the firefighters union "would not change the language" from the 2010 contract.
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Index:
Quotes of the Week
Message
Week in Review
Jobs Focus
Around the Country
In Case You Missed It
Great Read of the Week
Seil.Fitzgerald <Sen.Fitzgerald@legis.wisconsin.gov>
Friday, June 03, 201111:42 PM
*Legislative Senate Republicans
GOP Senate Weekly Update -June 6, 2011
Week ofJune 6, 2011
***Members and staff are strongly encouraged to contribute to the Update with press releases, talking points,
news items, suggestions, best practices, contributions or ideas for improvement. Please send these items
throughout the week by email to Andrew We/house or Hannah Huffman, or by calling 266-5660.
Quotes of the Week
''This is the first serious attempt to balance the state budget in more
than a decade, and the special interests are fighting to maintain the
status quo."
-Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, with a perfect quote in an excellent article in the Hudson Star-Observer about the
state of Wisconsin's government: read more ...
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"Please stop! Fellow Wisconsinites, in order for us to do our work
tonight we need decorum."
-Rep. Jen Shilling, to the protesters interrupting the Finance Committee hearing on Thursday night ...
followed by ...
"Why??" and "We don't want you to do your work!"
-Protesters, in response to Shilling.
"I'm sorry babies, "
-Protester, grabbing a live microphone at JFC during a break, following statements including "bad
babies go to hell forever" and "good babies keep us safe." Read more ...
Message
Republicans Keeping Promises -Job Creation and a Landmark Budget
Jobs:
This week, Wisconsin continued to grab positive headlines for the direction of job creation in
our state, which was inversely mirrored by startlingly bad news at the federal level. (see more
in the Jobs Focus section below)
The national economy might be sputtering, but Wisconsin Republicans are leading the charge
to make Wisconsin the exception, with continued focus on job creation and sending a message
that Wisconsin is Open for Business with a balanced budget and a partner- not an obstacle- in
the state government.
Budget:
The Finance Committee passed a budget that fundamentally reforms the way Wisconsin does business.
Structural Deficit: Aims to completely eliminates the structural deficit- no ongoing deficit for
the next budget and the next generation to deal with;
Property Tax Freeze: A real property tax freeze to help with the bills and help Seniors stay in
their homes;
Stop Runaway Spending: The budget includes real reform of how Wisconsin spends money:
o Real budget cuts to stop runaway spending;
o Standing up to wasteful spending, fraud and abuse;
o Ending Gov. Doyle's Early Release program;
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o Protect what's working: no changes to SeniorCare.
Jobs, Jobs, Jobs! The state budget funds the Wisconsin Economic Development Authority, to
partner with businesses to create real-world jobs, not bog down the process with bureaucracy
and red tape.
o Protects the state's Transportation Fund, to provide a solid, reliable infrastructure that's
critical to job growth.
o Provides an increase for the state's tourism fund, which is a critical industry for rural
and Northern Wisconsin.
o Provides targeted tax breaks and credits for job creators.
Bottom line: Republicans are keeping their promises with a Balanced Budget, job creation, and a
government we can afford. We balanced the budget without raising taxes, putting Wisconsin's
government in the best fiscal shape in the last 15 years.
Again, the Democrats and the protesters have countered with empty rhetoric, chants and disruptions,
without a plan beyond "the status quo, but more."
Week in Review
Reminder, Supreme Court to Meet Monday
On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear arguments about taking up an appeal to Judge Sumi's ruling
on the Budget Repair Bill, Act 10.
Monday's meeting is expected to provide a preliminary indication of how soon they Court will rule, and
every word from the justices themselves will likely be scrutinized and interpreted for possible meaning.
Either way, Monday's hearing will likely moves the state forward toward closure on the repair bill, and
may give some long-overdue insight into the direction ofthe Court.
As we've said from the beginning, the Supreme Court is the preferred venue for the final answer on Act
10. There is a larger constitutional issue about separation of powers, and whether each branch has the
ability to write the rules that govern that body. The Attorney General has argued quite eloquently
about how Judge Sumi has overstepped her bounds, and misread the applicable laws, and those
arguments should be allowed to play out at the Supreme Court.
Specific to Monday's hearing, the court has requested answers to the following questions:
*if an appeal is an available remedy and to whom;
*if Judge Sumi's ruling nixing the collective bargaining changes because lawmakers violated the open
meetings law is final for purposes of appeal;
*if the court's power of original jurisdiction may include the review of a circuit court decision absent
the filing of an appeal;
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*whether any of the circuit court's findings of fact are clearly erroneous; and
*And whether any facts beyond those in the circuit court cases are material to deciding.
Judge David Prosser has said that he will participate in the case. Please contact the Fitzgerald office
with any questions.
Supreme Court Order
Act 10 in Action: Schools giving Case Studies as to Why Reform is Truly Needed
This week, anecdotal evidence from school districts across the state have given some measure of
insight into the relationship between the unions and school budgets. As districts negotiate new
contracts, some are finding that the ideal way to deal with their reduced budgets is to do exactly what
the collective bargaining reforms will accomplish- tools providing much-needed flexibility and savings
with employees contributing more to their benefits and health insurance.
Here's a quick summary of what some local districts have been doing:
Real Savings:
West Allis-West Milwaukee -
Teachers are considering a limited agreement for the 2011-'12 school year instead of a new
contract. The memorandum of understanding, approved by the school board, would require
teachers to pay 10% toward health insurance premiums and higher deductibles and/or co-that
would save 15% to 20% over the current plan. It requires them to pay into the Wisconsin
Retirement System, discontinues the practice of union dues being taken from employee
paychecks, and includes a 1 percent salary decrease.
Menomonee Falls-
The school board switched insurance carriers to save the district money before the collective
bargaining bill was introduced. Switching from WEA Trust to Humana will save $1.3 million per
year. Teachers will contribute 8% to 15% of the premium. The second year of the new contract
also includes merit pay language and language to guide layoffs away from seniority. By
requiring teachers to pay their share of the retirement plan as of July 1, the district saved
another $1.5 million per year.
Wauwatosa-
The teachers union approved an interim agreement that keeps retirement benefits the same
for a year, but freezes wages, increases deductibles for the district's self-funded health
insurance plan, and includes all the concessions of the collective bargaining law, according to
the district. Teachers will also pay a higher percentage of health insurance premiums and
contribute to their retirement plans.
57
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: School districts press to reach agreements
And on the other side ...
On the other end of the spectrum, some teachers unions are still relentlessly pursuing wasteful
expenditures- and embarrassing themselves at the same time. A perfect example is the Cross
Plain school district that accumulated a $300,000 legal bill for a 7th grade science teacher who
was caught looking at porn on his state computer. Instead of simply firing the teacher for his
blatant inappropriateness, the local teachers union challenged the dismissal and spent
$300,000 dollars that could have used for students' actual education.
Wisconsin State Journal: School district racks up $300,000 legal bill
Another example of the teachers union's stubbornness to come to grips with the new reality is
their attempt to block the Hartland-lakeside School District from saving $690,000 by switching
insurance carriers. After the school board overwhelmingly agreed to change health care plans
from WEA Trust to United Healthcare because ofthe considerable savings, union leaders
blocked the change- even with an expected $1.2 million dollar cut to the school district's
budget.
And perhaps the most glaring: North Fond du lac has announced it will be spending $63,000 for
iPads. Fond duLac Reporter: North Fond du lac schools invest in iPads
Stories like these severely undermine the theory that teachers unions are advocating for
students. Nearly $1 million dollars was spent on legal bills for a porn-obsessed science teacher
and an over-priced health care plan that could have been directed to the classroom where
students would have benefited.
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: After Hartland teachers agree, union blocks insurance
Election Reform Changes Introduced
Senator lazich introduced two reform measures changing the dates and implementation of state
elections.
Senate Bill115 is in response to national Republican and Democratic party rules mandating Wisconsin's
primary occur after March 1. A bipartisan decision was made to make the primary date the same as the
non-partisan spring election. This will save taxpayer money and increase turnout. Wisconsin is a true
toss up state and will continue to be an important proving ground for presidential candidates.
Senate Bill116 puts Wisconsin in full compliance with the federal MOVE Act. This is critical to ensure
every Wisconsin military voter has a voice and to prevent possible federal lawsuits.
Senate Bill116:
Changes the date of the fall primary from the second Tuesday in September to the second
Tuesday in August to ensure military voters have enough time to transmit their ballots
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Modernizes laws regarding electronic transmission of ballots to overseas voters.
Allows military voters access to electronic system showing whether their vote was counted.
Both bills had a joint hearing in the Senate Committee on Transportation and Elections and the
Assembly Committee on Elections and Campaign Reform on Thursday.
For more information, contact Sen. Lazich's office at 266-5400.
WI Tourism Dept. Launches Summer Campaign
The State Dept. of Tourism recently announced that it is spending more than $3 million to launch a
new summer marketing campaign in markets across the Midwest. The "Picture the Fun" campaign is
meant to inspire travelers in Wisconsin to discover and share their idea of fun this summer.
The campaign will run in markets across Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Iowa.
Additionally, campaign extensions will run on TraveiWisconsin.com and the Department of Tourism
Facebook page and Twitter feed throughout the campaign.
The mission ofthe Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the state as the Midwest's premier
travel destination by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic
partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs
for Wisconsin. For more Wisconsin travel information, visit www.travelwisconsin.com.
lobs Focus
~
DOR Economic Outlook: Not Too Shabby!!
Wisconsin's job numbers are expected to continue their upward climb, according to the DOR's latest
quarterly Economic Outlook.
Here's a quick overview of some of the main highlights:
Wisconsin has added 38,600 jobs since total employment hit its bottom in January
2010. By the first quarter of 2014, employment will return to its peak level of 2.9 million
jobs reached in early 2008.
Personal income has increased four consecutive quarters through the fourth quarter of
2010. Wisconsin personal income grew 3.4% in 2010.
Manufacturing employment growth is expected to remain strong over the next three
years: 3.0% in 2011, 3.5% in 2012, and 3.3% in 2013.
The report projected that Wisconsin will add 184,4000 jobs through 2014, which could improve with an
improving economy. Republicans will continue to fight to boost that number. That figure doesn't take
into account several factors that the legislature has already taken to improve the business
59
environment. The GOP's business-growth measures to lower debt, decrease the tax burden and
regulations will likely help job numbers exceed DOR projections.
Full DOR Spring Economic Outlook
Other Key Economic Indicators from DOR Report:
Employment:
Wisconsin employment declined 4.4% in 2009 and 0.6% in 2010. Wisconsin started to modestly
add jobs in January 2010, but the gains were not enough to lift total annual employment above
2009levels. Employment is expected to grow between 1% and 2% per year between 2011 and
2014.
Unemployment:
Wisconsin's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose from 4.3% in the first quarter of 2008
to 8.8% in mid 2009 but fell to 7.4% in the first quarter of 2011. The unemployment rate in
Wisconsin stayed below the national rate throughout the recession and will continue doing so.
Income Outlook:
Personal income resumed growth in 2010 after falling for the first time in 50 years during 2009.
Wisconsin personal income grew 3.4% in 2010, compared to 3.1% nationally.
GDP:
GDP Data is released on an annual basis. The latest data show that Wisconsin real GDP fell
0.8% in 2009, compared to a 2.6% decline nationally. Real Wisconsin GDP should grow 3.0 in
2010 and 2.3 in 2011.
Last week's local unemployment figures, too, are a major indicator of the positive direction Wisconsin's
economy is headed. All12 metro areas experienced a drop in their unemployment rates from March
and 70 of 72 counties had lower rates in April than in March. Be sure to continue to highlight these
positive numbers in your districts. Republicans are keeping the promises we made by reforming the
way Wisconsin does business, and it's paying off. Focusing on jobs will continue to be our number one
priority in the Senate.
DWD's April Unemplovment Figures
In contrast to Wisconsin's encouraging economic news, new national unemployment numbers
released this morning show that President Obama's anti-business measures are failing to produce real
economic growth. The national unemployment rate for May was 9.1 %, and the economy added only
54,000 jobs last month, fewer than needed to keep pace with demand. This is the fewest jobs added in
the past eight months and is much lower than expected. Economists had predicted 160,000 new jobs
and an unemployment rate of 8.9 percent earlier this week.
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Sen. Johnson
Rep. Duffy
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Washington Examiner: Pro-Obama media always shocked at bad economic
news
Reuters: Employment growth slows sharply in May
CNBC: US Economy: 150 economists back Republicans in debt fight
USA Today: Economic problems stubbornly linger
USA Today: U.S. economy damaged more than thought by Japan quake
Around the Countrv

Associated Press: Gov't to lose $14 billion in auto bailout funds
Politico: Economy shadows Obama's 2012 campaign
In Case You Missed It
Wall Street Journal Op-Ed: Kim Strassel- Who's winning the budget war?
ABC News: Congress mulls cuts to food stamp program amid record recipients
Washington Post Fact-Checker: Wasserman-Schultz's bogus claim that GOP Medicare plan will 'throw
you to the wolves'
Related: Paul Ryan: A campaign built on falsehoods and fears
Wis DOT: Potential for deer crashes will be high in June
F1om the Assemblv

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Capitol singers upset state rep
Great Read of the Week
TownHall.com- Thomas Sowell: Dependency and votes
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Those who regard government "entitlement" programs as sacrosanct, and regard those who
want to cut them back as calloused or cruel, picture a world very different from the world of
reality.
For more information on anything contained in the GOP Senate Update and to contribute ideas and topics
for future weeks, please contact Sen. Fitzgerald's office at 608-266-5660 or email Andrew Wei house or
Hannah Huffman.
9
From:
Sent:
Subject:
Hegerfeld, Kathy - DOT
Monday, June 06, 2011 7:24AM
Today's Reader Review
Build the bridge over the St. Croix
Pioneer Press
06/01/2011
The proposed four-lane bridge crossing the St. Croix River on the southern edge of Stillwater will cost somewhere
between $574 million and $690 million. It would divert border-crossing traffic from downtown Stillwater onto State Highway
36 near Oak Park Heights. It would replace the crumbling Stillwater lift bridge and leap the river five miles north of the
Interstate 94 bridge crossing.
This is an imperfect solution to a real problem. We join with U.S. senators and governors from both states, and with U.S.
House members from the districts at either end of the bridge, ih recommending that Congress grant the exemption to
allow the project to go forward.
The bridge is indeed expensive but the controversy isn't so much about the money- both states have agreed to pony up
their share. The issue is beauty. The St. Croix is a gem and is recognized as such by the U.S. Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.
It was under the auspices of the Act that the National Park Service, after first deciding the bridge could go forward,
reversed itself last October and said that the proposed bridge would "forever change the view of the river" and cannot be
built under current law.
Bridge supporters seek an exemption from the law, requiring an act of Congress. They now include U.S. Rep. Michele
Bachmann, R-Stillwater; U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar and AI Franken, both Democrats; Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton, a
Democrat; western Wisconsin U.S. Reps. Ron Kind, a Democrat, and Sean Duffy, a Republican;
Wisconsin Sens. Herb Kohl, a Democrat, and Ron Johnson, a Republican; and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, a
Republican.
That is enough consensus for us, even if it is not unanimous.
U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum, D-St. Paul, raises important concerns about the effect of the four-lane crossing and the traffic
it will bring to Highway 36 communities such as North St. Paul, Maplewood and Little Canada. She seeks a downsized
crossing. And former Vice President and U.S. Sen. Walter Mondale is upset that the St. Croix River protections he
championed must be set aside for this project to proceed.
We encourage state planners to look hard at the impact of the bigger bridge on "downstream" communities on Highway
36. And we restate the obvious- it is the beauty of the St. Croix Valley, protected by Walter Mondale and others, that
makes people want to visit and live there. It's good that Klobuchar's bill would enact new safeguards to help protect those
spectacular river bluffs.
This is an important link in our regional transportation network, and we support it in the same way that we have supported
such projects as the Central Corridor light-rail project connecting St. Paul and Minneapolis.
This bridge, which motorists will cross in a matter of seconds, will likely cost two-thirds as much as the 11-mile Central
Corridor rail project through the heart of the Twin Cities. And its upward cost estimate rivals the $810 million in federal
funds Gov. Walker opposed for a higher-speed rail line linking Milwaukee and Madison.
But we agree with Dayton that the current plan is the "only realistic option" for getting a crossing built in the next decade.
And we agree with Bachmann that the time is now, with leaders of both parties lining up in support.
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"It's a historic opportunity," Bachmann has said. Let's pass the necessary federal legislation and move forward .

New troopers, inspectors would pay more of pension, benefits under proposal
http :1/www .jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/123148843. html
By Jason Stein
Journal Sentinel
June 4, 2011
Madison -Newly hired State Patrol troopers and inspectors would have to pay more of their pensions and health benefits
like other state employees, under a proposal passed by the budget committee late Friday night.
As part of their work on the 2011-'13 budget bill, the Joint Finance Committee voted 12-4 to pass the proposal to make the
new hires pay 12% of their health premiums and 5.8% of their salary toward their pension. It came after the committee
this week voted to pass similar requirements for newly hired local police officers and firefighters.
Those groups had been excluded from Gov. Scott Walker's budget repair bill passed in March, which eliminated nearly all
collective bargaining for state and local union workers and made the same benefits cuts for those workers. That legislation
was struck down by a Dane County judge and remains under litigation.
The sweeping motion also provided $10 million to cover the costs of increased Capitol security during the recent massive
protests over the budget repair bill and a $5 million loan guaranty for the Wisconsin Eye public affairs cable network, which
covers the Legislature.
The amendment also required that the assets of the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority be split up and given to its
three counties when it ends. Milwaukee County would receive 50% of those assets, and Kenosha County and Racine
County would each receive 25% .

Just Ask Us: What is the proper way to turn left at a traffic circle?
http://host.mad is on .com/wsj/news/local/article e26c86fa-8d65-11 e0-8791-001 cc4c03286.htm I
DEVIN ROSE
June 5, 2011
Q: What is the proper way to turn left at an intersection with a traffic circle?
A: Madison's Traffic Engineering Division installed the round, raised islands known as traffic circles in the middle of
residential intersections around the city to reduce the speed of traffic and the number of crashes, according to a document
from the division on the city's website.
Since most of them take up so much of the intersections in order to slow drivers down, it can be difficult for trucks and
larger vehicles to drive all the way around them to make a left turn. Drivers turning left don't have to drive around the
whole Circle unless there is a sign posted directing them to do so, but they should use good judgement when determining
whether the move can be made safely without endangering anyone. All the normal requirements for left turns, like yielding
to pedestrians and oncoming vehicles, must be followed.
46
When a similar traffic calming strategy, the roundabout, is being used, vehicles making a left turn must travel all the way
around the circle, according to rules on the state Department of Transportation's website. Those planning to make left or
U-turns should use the left lane or other lanes marked as a left turn lane when approaching the roundabout. Vehicles
should yield to pedestrians and traffic to the left, and enter when there is a safe gap. The rules advise drivers to use the
right turn signal as they approach their exit.

May traffic deaths tied for lowest on state roads since WWII
http://host.mad ison.com/ct/news/local/crime and courts/article 3508a352-8df3-11 eO-bfb0-001 cc4c002e0.html
Gannett Newspapers
BILL NOVAK
Capital Times
June 3, 2011
Traffic fatalities on Wisconsin roads continued to decline in May, with the 47 fatalities matching May 2008 as the lowest
number of deaths from crashes during May since World War II.
The Department of Transportation said in a news release that 178 people have died on Wisconsin roads this year,
compared to 196 fatalities through May last year, and a five-year average of 224 deaths in the first five months of the
year.
Just five people lost their lives on Wisconsin highways over Memorial Day weekend- one of the busiest travel weekends
of the year- compared to 12 in 201 0.
The deadliest May on state roads in Wisconsin was in 1968 when 123 people died in traffic crashes .

Ray Nitschke Bridge in downtown Green Bay reopens for traffic
http://www. green baypressgazette.com/article/20 11 0606/GPGO 1 01/1 06060514/Downtown-s-Ray-N itsch ke-Bridge-
reopens-traffic?odyssey-tabltopnewslimqiFRONTPAGE
June 6, 2011
City crews have completed inspections and mechanical repairs of the Ray Nitschke Bridge and reopened it to traffic.
The city closed the bridge over the Fox River on Saturday evening because of mechanical issues inhibiting its capability to
open and close.
City Public Works Department officials had said the bridge could have reopened as late as today, pending inspection and
repair.
Drivers were detoured while the bridge was closed .

47
Highway 41 retaining wall fails but project remains on schedule
http://www .postcrescent.comlarticle/2011 0606/ APC01 0111 06060460/Highway-41-retaining-wall,fails-project-
remains-schedule?odyssey=tabltopnewslimgiFRONTPAGE
Breezewood Lane mishap in Neenah to cost estimated $300,000
NEENAH -A newly constructed retaining wall at the U.S. 41-Breezewood Lane interchange failed last month, forcing an
estimated $300,000 in repairs.
The mishap, however, will not affect the completion of the $15 million interchange, which is scheduled for Oct. 8.
"At the time it happened, we did have some concerns that it would slow us down," said Kris Schuller, a spokesman for the
$1.5 billion reconstruction of U.S. 41 in Winnebago and Brown counties.
"We've since done our investigation and we've come to the conclusion- and a guarantee- that this is not going to
delay the project at all."
The retaining wall, located in the northeast quadrant of the interchange along a marsh of the Neenah Slough, holds up the
new on-ramp for northbound U.S. 41.
It failed because unstable soils couldn't bear the weight of the wall and on-ramp.
Gerry Kaiser, Neenah's deputy director of public works and utilities, said the retaining wall crosses an earlier course of the
Neenah Slough, which was rerouted to its present location in the early 1970s.
"I think part of what they're dealing with is the original run of the slough and the backwaters of the original course," Kaiser
said.
Schuller said borings were done in the area but did not detect the unstable soils.
"It's not an exact science," he said. "You can't get to every section when you do these soil borings. It's just one of those
things that happens. It's part of construction."
Schuller said about 300 feet of retaining wall will be rebuilt after the poor soils are excavated and replaced.
"From what I've been told, 95 percent of the. big panels from that retaining wall will be reused," he said.
The Breezewood interchange will feature new bridges over U.S. 41 and the nearby Canadian National Railway tracks,
four multilane roundabouts, and bicycle and pedestrian routes .

48
What is the law in Wisconsin regarding passing or stopping for a stopped school
bus?
http://www.postcrescent.com/article/2011 0605/ APC01 01/306050011/-1/7 daysarch ives/What-state-law-reqard inq-
passinq-stoppinq-stopped-school-bus-
Q: What is the law in Wisconsin regarding passing or stopping for a stopped school bus? Half the time, they have red
lights flashing, and half the time, they have yellow lights flashing. Sometimes, it's red lights with a stop arm out.
A: State law says that whenever a school bus driver activates the flashing red warning lights or extends the stop arm,
motorists from either direction must stop at least 20 feet from the bus, and they must remained stopped until the red lights
cease flashing, the stop arm retracts and the bus resumes motion.
All lanes of traffic must stop for the school bus, except for opposing lanes if the street or highway is divided with a center
median.
The law further says that school bus drivers shouldn't use flashing red lights in residential or business districts that have
curb and gutter on both sides of a street, unless required by a local ordinance.
Ann Kobussen, owner and manager of Kobussen Buses, said bus drivers use flashing yellow lights when loading and
unloading passengers in curb and gutter areas, signaling that motorists may pass the school bus with caution.
She said passengers are instructed to wait along the curb until the bus and other traffic clear before crossing the street.
Menasha is one community with an ordinance requiring school buses to use flashing red lights, regardless of curb and
gutter, at stops where there is no crosswalk or traffic signal.
Neighboring Neenah has no such requirement, which can lead to confusion.
"They're driving through Menasha, and all of sudden, bingo, they're in Neenah, and there are only yellow flashers,"
Kobussen said. "We're going to ask the city of Neenah to go to all red like Menasha."

Highway officials take issue with proposed provisions
http://www.postcrescent.com/article/2011 0605/ APC01 01/1 06050546/-1/7 daysarch ives/Hiqhway-officials-take-
issue-proposed-provisions
Projects using county workers could be limited
June 4, 2011
49
Outagamie County Highway Commissioner AI Geurts and the Highway Committee weighed in negatively Friday on a state
budget provision that would significantly reshape and even curtail the work highway department workers could perform.
One of the major points in the measure from the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee says departments can't use their
own workers for projects that cost more than $100,000, putting the stability of the workforces in doubt.
Effective three months from its passage, the provision would prohibit the county from using its own workforce to perform a
highway improvement for any city or village regardless of the source of funds.
In addition, it would modify local bidding requirements after July 1, 2015, eliminating the option for a city or village to
contract with the county for an improvement if it doesn't receive a responsible bid.
While Geurts didn't add up the numbers, County Executive Tom Nelson said Geurts' analysis shows the pending law
could cost the county $2 million to $3 million in revenue.
"It's going to cost those other agencies more money and not represent the taxpayers of the county, the local government
and other counties we do business with," Geurts said.
Nelson was upset that the Wisconsin Counties Association chose to take a stance on the provision, supporting it.
More work would be shuttled to the private road builders under the proposal, and require labor to be reimbursed at the
prevailing wage rate, which is typically much higher than the county would charge, Geurts said .

Valley Transit is valuable service
http://www. postcrescent.com/article/20 11 0604/ APC0601/1 06040518/-1/7 daysarchives/Letters-Valley-Transit -valuable-
service
June 4, 2011
Valley Transit funding is vital for the continuation of the system that provides rides for people in our area, to travel to and
from work, school, keep medical appointments, and for shopping or to visit a friend on the other side of town.
I had never used Valley Transit services myself, so I spent a few hours recently to take a ride on three routes.
Some things I noticed were: 1) The drivers were very polite and knew their way around different streets and
neighborhoods. 2) The buses were clean and 3) In spite of all the street improvements, they kept on schedule, but drove
safely.
Also worthwhile mentioning is that the routes go by the hospitals and clinics, schools and stores for shopping. To
accommodate people who need to transfer from one bus to another, to arrive at work on time, the driver uses a cell phone
~ 0
to let the driver of the next bus know to wait for the passenger if there is a delay caused by an accident or bad weather,
etc.
Having been a realtor at one time, I suggest that realtors consider giving perspective home buyers bus passes so they
can "browse" neighborhoods if they aren't familiar with the area, to help them decide where they'd like to locate. It's much
easier to get acquainted with the area via bus rides and select a neighborhood or area your prospect prefers before
showing homes that are not interested in.
Or better yet, maybe realtors should take rides like I did today, to save gas money and maybe go into neighborhoods they
weren't aware of. You can go all day for only $5.50, using a day pass.
It's fun to "take the bus and leave the driving to us," as said in a commercial I heard somewhere.
Helen Patton Gray,
Menasha

Editorial: Take part in Bike & Walk to Work Week
http://www .sheboyganpress.com/article/20 11 0606/SH E06/1 06060412/Ed ito rial-Take-part -Bike-Walk-Work-
Week?odyssey-modlnewswellltextiFRONTPAGEip
June 5, 2011
This week is Bike & Walk to Work Week in Sheboygan County and we encourage people to take part as much as is
practical.
This annual event has grown out of the federally funded Non motorized Transportation Pilot Program, which provided
some $25 million for the county to develop and enhance transportation methods that don't involve motor vehicles.
In addition to dozens of walking and biking trails throughout the county, the project has funded public awareness efforts to
get more people out of their cars and onto their feet or a bicycle to get from one place to another.
The weeklong biking and walking event got started last Saturday and runs through Friday of this week. We realize that not
everyone can ride a bike or walk to their place of work, but why not make at least one trip during the week using
something other than a car or truck? It could mean walking to the grocery store for that loaf of bread or gallon of milk or
hopping on a bike to visit a friend in the neighborhood.
Bike & Walk to Work Week has grown in popularity over the years and we're encouraged that it will continue along this
path. There are more than 60 businesses throughout the county that are participating in the effort through a "Bike to
Shop" promotion that includes prizes and an end-of-the-week the raffle for a bicycle.
51
The overall goal of a nonmotorized transportation system is to reduce the number of gasoline-powered vehicles on the
roads, thus cutting down air pollution. It also promotes healthier lifestyles because of the great benefits of physical
exercise for people of all ages.
We hope the people taking part in Bike & Walk to Work Week are also thinking safety by wearing a helmet when biking.
We also urge thos(l who must drive a vehicle during the week to be on the lookout for more bicyclists and pedesirians and
share the roads with them .

US 10 lane closures scheduled
http://www .stevenspointjournal.com/article/2011 0604/SP J01 01/1 06040479/-1/7 daysarchives/US-1 0-lane-closu res-
scheduled
June 4, 2011
Crews are planning daytime single-lane closures on eastbound and westbound US Highway 10 between Highway K south
and Lake Road beginning Monday.
The lane closures are necessary for crews to install traffic-counting equipment Work is scheduled for completion by the
end of the day Thursday.
Motorists are asked to slow down in the work zone and be alert for slow-moving vehicles. To avoid potential delays,
motorists might want to use alternate routes.
The dates and times of the closures are subject to change based on favorable weather conditions .

Lanes to be closed on Highway 153
http://www .wausaudailyherald .com/article/2011 0604/WDH01 01/11 0604040/-1/7 daysarchives/Lanes-closed-
Hiqhway-153
Mosinee road work set to begin Monday
MOSINEE- Road construction crews are planning to close lanes beginning on Monday on Highway 153 between Old
Highway 51 and East View Drive in Mosinee.
The lanes will be closed while crews complete concrete pavement repair. Motorists also can expect to encounter 11-foot
width restrictions. Work is scheduled to be completed by June 22.
52
To avoid potential delays, motorists may want to use alternate routes, and those driving through the work zone are asked
to slow down and be alert for slow moving vehicles .

Kathy Hegerfeld
WisDOT
Office of Public Affairs
Rrn. 103B Hill Farms
Madison, WI
(6o8)261-5895
9
From: Evenson, Tom - GOV
Sent:
To:
Evenson, Tom - GOV
Subject: Morning News Update 06.06.11
WEEKLY HEADLINE GOAL: IT'S WORKING
Daily Headline Goal: Quick action by the Court is important
Office of Governor Scott Walker- Morning News Update for June 6, 2011
News Summary:
"Walkerville" and the budget dominates statewide news coverage
JFC concludes, budget moves onto full legislature for debate, passage
Wisconsin's Front Pages:
Appleton Post-Crescent
Eau Claire Leader-Telegram
Green Bav Press Gazette
La Crosse Tribune
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Oshkosh Northwestern
Racine Journal Times
Sheboygan Press
Stevens Point Journal
Wisconsin State Journal
Watch: Television Clips for June 4-5
Social Media Update:
Twitter Followers 1 Week Ago: 20,461
Twitter Followers Today: 20,626
Face book Likes 1 week ago: 63,287
Facebook Likes Today: 63,345
Nation/World
Wisconsin activists create Walkerville to taunt governor, tout change
CNN
Eighty years after Hoovervilles sprung up around the country, and four months after tens of thousands
descended on the Wisconsin state capitol, progressives have a new home in what they're calling Walkerville.
41
Wisconsin Protesters Erect 'Walkerville' Tent City To Protest Scott Walker's Budget Cuts
Huffington Post
"It's pretty tough for these politicians to ignore us when we're right there," said Peter Rickman, a University of
Wisconsin-Madison law student and Teaching Assistants' Association member who is helping to organize the
event. "It is a galvanizing, symbolic action of working folks standing up and saying enough is enough."
Wisconsin's Newest 'City.' 'Walkerville.' Protests Budget
NewsMax
The tense times over Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's budget measures have evolved into to tent time for some
in the state capital, in a protest village that organizers are calling "Walkerville." A Madison city commission
approved plans for a tent city in which folks who oppose the Republican governor's budget measures will
camp along downtown streets across from the state Capitol starting tonight.
Milwaukee
Loved by Republicans, loathed by Democrats, Scott Walker remains in a political class by himself
In a Wisconsin poll taken two weeks ago, Gov. Walker's approval rating among Republican voters was 87%. His
approval rating among Democratic voters was 9%.
Wisconsin GOP leaders encouraging colleagues to place fake Democrats on recall ballots
In letters obtained by No Quarter, local Republican Party officials are encouraging their GOP colleagues to
collect enough signatures to get a fake Democratic candidate on the ballot in each oftwo upcoming recall
elections.
Board mum on Nickolaus election inquiry
Waukesha- Although the state Government Accountability Board promised to release a detailed report of its
April investigation of Waukesha County Clerk Kathy Nickolaus' election operation by late June, it's unclear now
when or ifthe report will be coming.
Brookfield teen with Down syndrome earns Eagle Scout rank
Brookfield - More than 70 people gathered last week at Dixon Elementary School to celebrate the promotion
of Brookfield teenager Jonathan Schmit, who has Down syndrome, to the rank of Eagle Scout.
Madison
Officials to 'Walkerville' residents: Camping on Capitol grounds not permitted
Wisconsin State Journal
Capitol police noted that the building will be open Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. via doors at North Hamilton
Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
Protesters Pitch Tents In Madison To Oppose Budget
WISC-TV
42
The lines have been drawn and the troops have been rallied yet again. Armed with camping gear, protesters
are uniting in opposition to the budget proposal being advanced by Walker and his Republican allies in both
houses of the state Legislature.
Live coverage of the Walkerville encampment at the Wisconsin Capitol
Isthmus
Live stream.
Find a fair way of redistricting
Editorial- Beloit Daily News
SILLY CITIZEN, all this time you were under the impression that voters choose the politicians who represent
them in government.
Green Bay/Appleton
Executive residence honors Civil War soldiers
Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter
MADISON- In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Gov. Scott Walker has announced the
addition of Civil War-themed artwork and artifacts to decorate the interior of Wisconsin's Executive
Residence.
State. local officials come out against budget mandate that calls for private companies to be hired for certain
road work
Local and state officials have lined up in opposition to a state budget amendment they say is likely to drive up
local road costs by banning equipment sharing and mandating private companies be hired for certain work.
Editorial: Cutting technical colleges at odds with job growth
Something funny happened on the way to 250,000 jobs. As Wisconsin was embroiled in a debilitating debate
over collective bargaining for public employees, Gov. Scott Walker submitted a biennium budget that
undermines the ability of the state to attract and retain the good paying jobs needed to stabilize and expand
our economy.
Budget committee's plan will limit access to state officials' financial records
Fond duLac Reporter
MADISON - Public access to information about the finances of state officials would be limited under a
provision recently passed by a state budget-drafting committee.
'Walkerville' protest tents set up near Wisconsin Capitol in Madison
Associated Press- Green Bay Press-Gazette
MADISON -Those against Gov. Scott Walker's budget proposal are settling in for the long haul, pitching
tents on the Capitol Square.
Budget Bill Protesters Create "Walkerville" Tent City
WBAY-TV
Nearly three months after they began voicing their opposition to the budget repair bill, protesters are at it
again.
43
La Crosse/Eau Claire
Madison approves 14-day permit for 'Walkerville' rally
Wisconsin Reporter- Eau Claire Leader-Telegram
MADISON -The woman hollering words from the Declaration of Independence while rushing toward the
rope line was one of the most noticeable interruptions in Friday's meeting of the Joint Finance Committee.
Legislature to begin debating state budget this week
Wisconsin Reporter- Eau Claire Leader-Telegram
MADISON - At a meeting punctuated with protesters singing, speaking out of turn and being removed from
the room, the Joint Finance Committee completed the proposed 2011-13 biennial budget at about midnight
Friday - but not before adding some last-minute provisions that had Democrats seething.
Video: Group gets permits to set up tents near the Capitol
WEAU-TV
Organizers of the 'We are Wisconsin' event say they're planning to have a permanent presence near the
capitol square area over the next couple of weeks.
'Walkerville' tent city up and running
WXOW-TV
"This is all part of the anger and frustration at politicians that aren't listening to working class folks from
around this state," said organizer Peter Rickman.
Wausau/Rhinelander
Our View: GOP right to include police, firefighters in bill
Wausau Daily Herald
Regardless of where you land on the issue of collective bargaining for public employees, you might agree that
it was unfair and illogical for Gov. Scott Walker to exempt police andfirefighters from his anti-union bill.
State Senate bill would allow stores to sell alcohol at 6 a.m.
Stevens Point Journal
Sen. Pam Galloway, R-Wausau, said she signed on as a co-author of a bill that would allow retailers to sell
alcohol two hours earlier than they can now, after hearing from several local grocers who support the
measure. The Wisconsin Grocers Association also backs the bill.
MADD urges lawmakers to allow police stops as means of deterring drunken driving
Wisconsin Rapids Tribune
The Mothers Against Drunk Driving organization is starting a campaign to convince state officials to allow
sobriety checkpoints in Wisconsin.
44
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
DWD MB Communications Office
Barkelar, Craig D - DWD; Barroilhet, Dan - DWD; Bartol, Fred - DWD; Baumbach, Scott C
- DWD; Beckett, Laura L- DWD; Berge, Sharon - DWD; Bernstein, Howard I- DWD;
Black-Radloff, Rita - DWD; Blodgett, Rebecca R- DOC; Blodgett, Steve R- DWD; .
Brockmiller, William - DWD; Burgett, Carol - DWD; Charles, Amy D - DWD; Conway, John
P - DWD; Cook, Tristan - DWD; Crary, Cathy- DWD; Denis, Gary J - DWD; Dipko, John A
- DWD; Domenoski, Brian K - DWD; Dwyer, Charlene - DWD; Falk, Elizabeth C - DWD;
Fite, Nicole L- DWD; Fosdick, Anna - DWD; Gerrits, Karen - DWD; Gottschall, Chuck-
DWD; Grant, Ken G - DWD; Grosso, Eric - DWD; Hodek, Scott A - DWD; Holt, Deb -
DWD; Irwin, Michael A - DWD; Jones, Richard - DWD; Kikkert, Becky- DOA; Lied I,
Kimberly- GOV; Lingard, Sue- DWD; Maxwell, Georgia E - DWD; McDonald, Scott -
DWD; Metcalf, John C - DWD; Michels, Thomas A - DWD; Morgan, Karen P- DWD;
Myska, Amy- DWD; Natera, Ramon V- DWD; OBrien, Christopher D - DWD; O'Brien,
Pamela - DWD; O'Connor, Rene- DWD; Palzkill, Bruce R- DWD; Pasholk, Mary L- DWD;
Pawasarat, Jane - DWD; Pelon, Brian - DWD; Phillips, Amelia - DWD; Preysz, Linda -
DWD; Reid, Andrea - DWD; Richard, JoAnna - DWD; Roehr, Edwin A Jr- DWD; Rozek,
Allison J - DWD; Ryan, Edward - DWD (DET); Sachse, Jeff A- DWD; Schmalle, Verlynn C -
DWD; Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Shutes, David L- DWD; Solomon, Brian - DWD; Spurlin,
Dennis A - DWD; Thole, Kristina E - DWD; Thomas, John - DWD; Thompson, Heather -
DWD; Udalova, Victoria M - DWD; Vue, Mai Zong - DCF; Weber, Sue - DWD; Werwie,
Cullen J - GOV; Westbury, John R- DWD; Westfall, Grant- DWD; Williamson, Linda -
DWD; Winters, Dennis K - DWD; Wisnewski, Jerry - DWD; Wurl, Mark W - DWD;
Younger, Thomas - DWD
DWD CustomScop 6.06.11
http://dailyreporter. com/20 11/06/04/budget-comm ittee-rolls-back -prevailing-wage/
Budget committee rolls back prevailing wage
MADISON, Wis. (AP)- The Legislature's budget committee voted to undo a 2009 law requiring construction companies
to pay the prevailing wage on projects partially paid for with public dollars. The Republican-controlled Joint Finance
Committee voted Friday to rescind the law without debate and make a number of other changes related to prevailing
wages.
http://www. bloom berg .com/news/20 11-06-05/slowing-u-s-g rowth-prompts-optimists-to-question-du rability-of -recovery. htm I
Slowing U.S. Growth Prompts Optimists to Question Durability of Recovery
By Rich Miller and Shobhana Chandra- Jun 5, 2011
A string of disappointing economic data capped by last week's jobs report is prompting even some of the more optimistic
economists to question the durability of the U.S. recovery .. While analysts such as Stephen Stanley of Pierpoint Securities
LLC and Michael Feroli of JPMorgan Chase & Co. still see growth strengthening in the months ahead, they voiced
concern that the lull in the economy may prove prolonged, leaving it more vulnerable to external shocks or policy missteps
http://waukesha.patch.com/articles/waukesha-unemployment-lower-than-national-average
Waukesha Unemployment Lower Than National Average
By Sarah Millard I Email the author I 2:55pm
City of Waukesha unemployment at 8.4 percent and Waukesha County unemployment at 6.4 percent. While employment
and unemployment numbers were released Friday by the U.S. Department of Labor show a significantly lower increase in
38
number of jobs as unemployment hovered at 9.1 percent in May, the City of Waukesha and Waukesha County are facing
different numbers
http://www. jsonlin e.com/business/123172408. html
State's certified capital proposal put on hold; Brakes applied when questions arise on earlier,
similar program
By Kathleen Gallagher and Mark Johnson of the Journal Sentinel June 4, 2011 11130) Comments
Wisconsin lawmakers are putting a $400 million economic development initiative on hold, a key backer said Saturday,
after the proposal ran into bipartisan opposition and questions were raised about the effectiveness of a similar program
that ran for 10 years beginning in 1999. "We decided we're going to hold back on this bill and work to modify and improve
it and come out with it later this year," said Rep. Gary Tauchen (R-Bonduel).
http://brookfield-wi.patch.com/articles/wisconsin-unemployment-better-than-the-national-average
Wisconsin Employment Better Than The National Average
Manufacturing base is still a plus but the future is still cloudy, expert says
By Marie Rohde I Email the author 1 June 3, 2011
The support group for unemployed workers that has met weekly at Lumen Christi Catholic Church in Mequon for the past
nine years has a tradition. "The custom is that if you land a job, you bring in treats," said Patrick Cronin, the volunteer
organizer of the group. "We have been averaging three new placements a month." Wisconsin, it seems, is bucking the
trend with a somewhat faster job recovery than the rest of the nation
http://www. thenorthwestern. com/article/20 11 0606/0SHO 1 01/1 06060389/State-local-officials-come-out -against -budget-
mandate-calls-private-companies-hired-certain-road-work?odyssey-tabltopnewslimgiFRONTPAGE
State, local officials come out against budget mandate that calls for private companies to be
hired for certain road work
Local and state officials have lined up in opposition to a state budget amendment they say is likely to drive up local road
costs by banning equipment sharing and mandating private companies be hired for certain work. The Joint Finance
Committee approved an amendment in late May that requires counties and municipalities to hire private companies to do
any project that costs more than $100,000 and end equipment-sharing efforts that local officials say have kept the cost of
local road maintenance down.
http://www.thenorthwestern.com/article/2011 0605/0SH06/1 06050328/Editoriai-Cutting-technical-colleges-odds-job-
growth?odyssey-navlhead
Editorial: Cutting technical colleges at odds with job growth
Something funny happened on the way to 250,000 jobs. As Wisconsin was embroiled in a debilitating debate over
collective bargaining for public employees, Gov. Scott Walker submitted a biennium budget that undermines the ability of
the state to attract and retain the good paying jobs needed to stabilize and expand our economy. Not only does the
budget dramatically reduce spending on all levels of education, it introduces structural changes that will fundamentally
undermine the quality and accessibility of education in the state through the expansion of school vouchers.
http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/article/2011 0606/CWS03/306060045/Weston-s-six-construction-projects-signal-
growth?odyssey-tabltopnewsltextiWDH-Business
Weston's six construction projects signal growth
WESTON --Village officials and developers are negotiating six construction projects totaling more than $40 million,
including an assisted living facility for seniors that could hire up to 60 full-time employees. It's a sign that investment in the
area could pick up this year, although economic development officials still are guarded about the effect on local
employment rates.
39
http:/ /www.wausaudailyherald.com/atiicle/20 11 0605/WDHO 1011106050427 /Teens-face-competition-sunnner-
job-market?odyssey=tabltopnewsltextiWDH-New Teens face competition in summer job market
At 17 years old, Jackie Thao of Weston already is a victim of one of the worst employment markets in modern U.S.
history. Thao just completed her junior year at Wausau East High School and wants to work part time this summer to save
for college and pay for gasoline and other expenses. "I think it's important, because my parents already have provided so
much for me," Thao said. So far, she hasn't gotten a single bite from a local employer.
http://www. stevenspointjournal. com/article/20 11 0604/S P JO 1 01/11 0604023/58-teachers-leave-district-collective-
bargaining-losses-loom?odyssey-tabltopnewslimg!FRONTPAGEIP
58 teachers to leave district as collective bargaining losses loom
One thousand, four hundred seventy years. That is approximately the amount of experience the Stevens Point Area
Public School District will lose next week, when 58 teachers retire, the highest number in recent years. After Gov. Scott
Walker announced his intention to largely eliminate union collective bargaining powers and cut aid to public schools, a
large number of teachers in the district, just like many other districts in the state, opted to retire early to avoid losing
benefits.
http://www.wfrv.com/news/national/123216573.html
Usually a job engine, localities slow US economy
WASHINGTON (AP) -In a healthy recovery, states and localities produce jobs, expand social services and help fuel the
nation's economic growth. Then there's the 2011 recovery. The U.S. economy is moving ahead, however fitfully. Yet state
and local governments are still stuck in recession.
http://www.news8000.com/news/Unemployment-on-the-rise-again-but-Western-Wisconsin-well-below-state-national-
averages/-/326/99380/-/rr7neez/-/i ndex. html
Unemployment on the rise again but Western Wisconsin well below state, national averages
New unemployment numbers released Friday indicate the economy is taking a step backward. Although, Western
Wisconsin si faring much better than the rest of the nation.The national unemployment rate went up from 9% to 9.1 %.
There was also a share decline in job growth. 54,000 jobs were created in May. That's down significantly from April, when
employers added more than 200,000 jobs.
http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/article/2011 0605/WDH01 01/1 06050462/Program-helps-less-fortunate-youths-learn-
skills-gain-job-experience?odyssey-tab% 7Ctopnews% 7Cimg% 7CFRONTPAGE% 7Cp
Program helps less-fortunate youths learn skills, gain job experience
A nonprofit organization is trying to help disadvantaged youths in Marathon and Lincoln counties get the critical work
experience they need. Forward Service Corp. administers federal grants provided by the Workforce Investment Act. Local
employers that partner with the program offer youths short-term work and use grant money to pay student participants,
who qualify based on disabilities, family income or language barriers.
40
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Le Monds, Tim J - DOC
Monday, June 06, 201110:38 AM
DOC DL Executive Planning
DOC newsWatch -June 6, 2011
Source: Fond du Lac Reporter (WI) Circulation: 16,300
Indexed At: 06/6/2011 5:36AM
Keywords: Sex Offender (2), Department of Corrections (WI only)
Abstract: ... Meeting set for sex offender release near Brownsville You will be redirected to the page you
want to view in ...
Source: Milwaukee WTMJ (WI)
Indexed At: 06/5/2011 5:36 PM
Keywords: Prison
Abstract: ... "Rather than just think she should rot in prison, I hope she learns from this," Jimi Sellars told
us. Janelle Gehrke will spend ...
Source: WISC-TV CBS 3 Madison (WI)
Indexed At: 06/5/2011 2:36AM
Keywords: Prison, Extended Supervision
Abstract: ... 39-year-old man was sentenced to 31 years in prison for killing a woman in Kenosha County
while drunken driving. Jorge Dominquez was convicted in ...
Source: Baraboo News Republic (WI) Circulation: 4,000
Indexed At: 06/5/2011 2:25AM
Keywords: Sex Offender (2), Prison (3), Extended Supervision (4)
Abstract: ... A Baraboo man will spend 40 years in prison and 25 years onextended supervision after
being sentenced Friday for sexuallyassaulting a woman last fall ....
Source: Janesville Gazette (WI) Circulation: 21,900
Indexed At: 06/5/2011 12:37 AM
Keywords: Prison (2)
Abstract: ... Suggest removal We have 25 of\he world's prison population and 5 of the world's people. Why
not expand on this and just put...
Source: Wisconsin State Journal and Madison.com (WI) Circulation: 91 ,575
Indexed AI: 06/4/2011 8:57PM
35
Keywords: Prison
Abstract: ... many children he hurt, and he went to prisonfor his crimes against them. But he never served
time for the abusehe committed against...
Source: WISC-TV CBS 3 Madison (WI)
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 2:44 PM
Abstract: ... been sentenced to more than 353 years in prison. Gregory Tyson Below, 37, was found guilty
in March of 29 counts including kidlna;ooino.
Source: Janesville Gazette (WI) Circulation: 21,900
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 2:25 PM
resource fair helping former prisoners adjust JIM LEUTE ( C The resource fair at
Job Center ...
Source: WKOW-TV 27 ABC (WI)
Indexed At: 06/4/201111:24 AM
Abstract: ... AP Enterprise: More Hispanics go to federal prison Former presidential candidate John
Edwards arrives at NC court to face charges More Grand ...
Source: Oshkosh Northwestern (WI) Circulation: 21,400
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 9:02AM
Abstract: ... safety concerns. -Allows health care disclosures about prisoners with communicable diseases
to the officer designated to be the custodian of that particular ...
Source: Oshkosh Northwestern (WI) Circulation: 21,400
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 6:37AM
Keywords: Corrections Officer (2)
Abstract: ... county jail officers-might lose theirs. "All of our corrections officers are deputized. And some
I work when summer events are here or. ..
Source: Marshfield News-Herald (WI) Circulation: 12,200
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 5:31AM
Keywords: Prison
Abstract: ... Wood County Circuit Court to seven years in prison with credit for 179 days served and placed
of extended i uu;mi m ...
Source: Lake Geneva News (WI) Circulation: 5,000
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 4:19AM
Keywords: Extended Supervision (2)
Abstract: ... endangering safety. That sentence includes five years of extended supervision. Duran also
pleaded guilty to felony bail jumping and was sentenced to one year in ...
Source: Beaver Dam Daily Citizen (WI) Circulation: 10,000
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 2:56AM
L .. cc:.c_c::="-'-'"--=-=_::::_=_ __: . ~ c c : = - c : : c ______________ ------ -----------
36
of 15 years inprison. Wilson additionally faces 36 years in prison
as ...
Source: Beaver Dam Daily Citizen (WI) Circulation: 10,000
Indexed At: 06/4/2011 2:56AM
Abstract: ... Man gets prison for sixth OWl CITIZEN JUNEAU- A 37-year-old Columbus man will serve
three years andfive ...
Source: WISN-TV ABC 12 Milwaukee (WI) Circulation: 255,654
Indexed At: 06/3/2011 1 0:41 PM
Abstract: ... Not So Lonely For Kids With Dads In Prison 40min Father's Day Not So Lonely For Kids With
Dads In Prison POSTED: 7:14pm ...
Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (WI) Circulation: 186,433
Indexed At: 06/3/2011 6:07 PM
Abstract: ... of bonds provided to pay bail for a prisoner and could have arrest powers to bring back
fugitives who do not show up ...
From the Department of Corrections: Please consider the environment before printing this message.
37
Mohr, Mark - GOV
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Legislator Contact:
Kitzman, Nick- GOV
Monday, June 06, 2011 5:35 PM
Archer, Cynthia - DOA; Brickman, Michael - DOA; Culotta, Jason - GOV; Eberle, Ed - LTGOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Hagedorn, Brian
K- GOV; Himebauch, Casey- GOV; Hogan, Pat- DOA; Huebsch, Mike - DOA; Hurlburt, Waylon - GOV; Jensen, Jodi -
Kikkert, Becky- DOA; Kitzman, Nick- GOV; Lied I, Kimberly- GOV; Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Polzin, Cindy M - GOV;
- DOA; Roetker, Patrick- DOA; Schrimpf, Chris- GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV; ; Werwie, Cullen J - GOV; Yahn, Nate
- DOA
Daily Policy and Legislative Update
Cindy met with Representative Mursau's Office concerning the concealed carry legislation
Representative Nass' Office called requesting to make some positive remarks about the Governor in a eulogy the Representative will be giving this week
at his in-law's funeral in California.
Tuesday's Committees Date Time Room Bill Author
S. Education Exec
S. Transportations and Elections
Exec
S. Labor, Public Safety and
Urban Affairs Hearing
S. Economic Development,
Military and Veterans Affairs
Hearing and Exec
617/2011 9:00 201 SE
6/7/2011 10:00 400 SE
330
6/7/2011 10:30 SW
6/7/2011 11:00 411 s
SB 95- omnibus mandate repeal bill
AB 94- technical changes to Choice
SB 22- Charter School Authorizing Board
SB 49- revocation of DPI license for immoral
conduct
SB 115- presidential preference primary
SB 116- MOVE Act
SB 86- Ed. Agencies ability to refuse to employ an
unpardoned felon
SB 1 09- soft tissue injuries for police officers
Vets Board Appointments
1
Olsen
Marklein
Darling
Olsen
Lazich
Laziich
Darling
Leibham
xxxxxxxx
Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Team
Commerce
WEDC Board Meeting
o Confirmed next board meeting for Monday, June 13'", at the Capitol
Burger Boat
o Pete Bilski, VP of HR for Burger Boat, called; supports collective bargaining changes in the budget repair bill
o Wants to thank the Governor for funds distributed to the North Coast Marine Manufacturing Association from the Workforce Development Board
BIO Conference
o Working with Commerce, Bryan Renk of BioForward, and the WI Tech Council on specifics of visit and itinerary
o Shared "Wisconsin is Open for Business" logo with Tech Council for use at the state's pavilion
DNR
Department of Interior Deputy Secretary Visit
o Met with DNR staff for background on the federal America's Great Outdoors initiative.
DOT
Eminent Domain (budget)
o Contact from Wisconsin Realtors Association and Wisconsin Builders Association with questions about the eminent domain language inserted by
JFC
Motor Carrier Liability
o Contact from Rep. Nygren regarding a potential amendment to AB50 (about this issue)
DRL
Surety Bond Agents (budget)
o DRL staff is evaluating a JFC motion that allows sureties to be compensated.
o The department has a number of concerns about how the motion was written and suggests we get clarity.
WHEDA
Wisconsin Eye Funding (budget)
o There is concern about a JFC motion requiring a $5 million loan from WHEDA to cover Wisconsin Eye's operating costs
JOBS Hotline
2 calls received
Health Care and Education
DHS
Met with Kevin Moore regarding the Office of Integrity for DHS. Kevin has conducted meetings with DOJ in the past week and will have another this week to
discuss the cross over jurisdiction work between the two agencies. There is a need to update the DHS computer equipment. The majority of their computers are
outdates; many are more than six years old.
Education
2
Met with DPI on dual enrollment. They will be convening a meeting with our staff and representatives from DPI, tech colleges, and UW-System to see if
agreements can be reached to increase dual credit opportunities.
Will work this week on a school report card Op-Ed that all stakeholdeis can agree on.
DHS News
Food Stamp use grows in Wisconsin (LaCrosse Tribune)
Wisconsin Public Radio news says more than 13 percent of Wisconsin residents currently receive food assistance.
Buyers, sellers of food stamps use Facebook to connect (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
A review by the Journal Sentinel part of a larger investigation into FoodShare fraud found nine Facebook users in Milwaukee and about 70 altogether nationwide
who posted to Facebook seeking to either buy or sell food assistance benefits illegally or help others do so. Many more friends responded, and in some cases,
later posts indicated that the sales were made.
Appeals court to hear states' case against health care law CUSA Today)
Of the many legal challenges to Obama-sponsored health care overhaul, the case brought by 26 states to be heard Wednesday by a federal appeals court in
Atlanta stands out.
Education News
Newspaper's lawsuit seeks sick notes for Madison school teachers during protest (Wisconsin State Journal/
The Madison School District failed to follow state law when it denied the Wisconsin State Journal access to more than 1,000 sick notes submitted by teachers who
didn't show up for work in February, according to a lawsuit filed by the newspaper Thursday.
What does the future hold for education in Wisconsin? (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel/
Mr. Educational Landscape Watcher here, with his jaw hanging open while he thinks about a few questions that boil down to this: What next?
In January, Gov. Scott Walker told a convention of school board members and administrators from around Wisconsin that he was going to give them new tools to
deal with their financial issues. Naive me - I thought he meant bigger hammers and saws.
Justice and Local Governments Team
Local Governments and Property Taxes:
Oneida County Savings from Budget Repair
Indeed, Sorenson has said, the county would start the next budget cycle $450,000 in the red, because that's the amount of general fund revenue the county
applied to keep the levy at zero.
That amount would have to be applied every time, or officials have to figure out how to replace it, either through spending cuts or revenue enhancements.
Obviously, the county cannot dip into its piggy bank forever to avoid a tax increase.
If Walker's collective bargaining bill is enacted, that will help. Having employees chip in 5. 8 percent of their salaries to the state retirement fund would save the
county about $645,000 a year, Sorenson has said, and Walker's proposal could net the county another $245,000 a year if the county opted into the state health
plan.
Appleton Post Crescent. Editorial: Budget provision bad for local governments
3
So what's behind it? As Ellis said, "The only ones who seem to benefit are the road builders."
Exactly. In fact, the business manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local139, based in Pewaukee, told his union that, during the 2010
campaign, Gov. Scott Walker "told me that the day he is sworn in, the public sector is out of the road-building business."
Wisconsin State JournaL Budget committee removes changes to phosphorous controls from budget
Co-chairs of the Joint Finance Committee said Friday t/Jat Senate and Assembly Republicans couldn't agree on what to do, so a separate bill will be introduced on
the issue to be considered later.
Wisconsin State JournaL City salaries: Bus drivers no ranger top the list of highest earners in Madison government
Bus drivers should fall further from the top tier of city earners due to new contract provisions that took effect this year that give Metro management more flexibilitv
in using part-time operators, make employees work while suspended, and tighten rules for drivers getting extra work, officials said.
After contract changes that began this year, driver overtime costs in the first quarter this year was down $140, 000 compared to the same period last year; he said.
Veterans:
Ben Collins, John Townsend, John Gaedke, and Alan Richards are on track to be confirmed by Senate committee and the full Senate this week. SB 97 is
set to be taken up by the full Senate as welL
Corrections:
I had a meeting with Senator Zipperer's staff regarding SB 104 with Corrections staff. There are concerns with the cost of the bill to require GPS tracking
on certain domestic violence offenders. The department is working on suggested changes and Senator Zipperer agreed to postpone the committee vote
on the bilL
Concealed Carrv:
We spoke with Chief of Police in Fox Point (Thomas Czaja- "Chiya"). He does not support concealed carry, but understands the bill will probably be
passed by both chambers, and signed by the Governor. He would like to see recurring training required on an annual basis, coupled with a permit
requirement Additionally, anyone who is caught with a concealed weapon and has neither a permit nor the required training to be charged with a felony,
not a misdemeanor.
4
From:
Sent:
To:
Maher, Kris <Kris.Maher@wsj.com>
Thursday, February 17, 201111:41 AM
Schrimpf, Chris - GOV
Subject: RE: (WisPolitics) ALERT! --Senate Dems walk-out on floor session-- 17 Feb. 2011
Thanks for sending.
-----Original Message-----
From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV [mailto:Chris.Schrimpf@wisconsin.gov]
Sent: Thursday, February 17, 2011 12:40 PM
To: Maher, Kris
Subject: FW: (WisPolitics) ALERT! --Senate Dems walk-out on floor session-- 17 Feb. 2011
Chris Schrimpf
Communications Director
Office of the Governor
Press Office: 608-267-7303
Email: chris.schrimpj@wisconsin.gov
From: WisPolitics Staff [mailto:news@wispolitics.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 17, 201111:35 AM
To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV
Subject: (WisPolitics) ALERT! -- Senate Dems walk-out on floor session -- 17 Feb. 2011
WisPolitics ALERT!
17Feb.2011
Exclusively for WisPolitics Platinum Subscribers
From WisPolitics.com ...
-- In protest of the budget repair bill that will strip public union workers of almost all of their
collective bargaining rights, Senate Democrats walked away from a floor session.
Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said Dems are refusing to come to the floor to debate
and vote on the bill.
Fitzgerald said at some point, if needed, Republicans will use the State Patrol to round up
Democrats to bring them to the floor.
Senate President Mike Ellis is calling the roll, but no Dems are present.
2011 WisPolitics.com.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or retransmission of this publication, in whole or in
part, without the express permission of WisPolitics.com is prohibited. Unauthorized
154
reproduction violates United States copyright law (17 USC 101 et seq.), as does
retransmission by facsimile or any other electronic means, including electronic mail.
I r r ~ ---
155
Sent:
To:
Thursday, February 17, 201111:40 AM
Maher, Kris
Subject: FW: (WisPolitics) ALERT! --Senate Dems walk-out on floor session-- 17 Feb. 2011
Chris Schrimpf
Communications Director
Office of the Governor
Press Office: 608-267-7303
Email: chris.schrimpf@wisconsin.gov
From: WisPolitics Staff
Sent: Thursday, February 17, 2011 11:35 AM
Subject: (WisPolitics) ALERT! --Senate Dems walk-out on floor session-- 17 Feb. 2011
WisPolitics ALERT!
17Feb.2011
Exclusively for WisPolitics Platinum Subscribers
From WisPolitics.com ...
-- In protest of the budget repair bill that will strip public union workers of almost all of their collective
bargaining rights, Senate Democrats walked away from a floor session.
Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said Dems are refusing to come to the floor to debate and
vote on the bill.
Fitzgerald said at some point, if needed, Republicans will use the State Patrol to round up Democrats
to bring them to the floor.
Senate President Mike Ellis is calling the roll, but no Dems are present.
All rights reserved. Reproduction or retransmission of this publication, in whole or in part,
without the express permission of WisPolitics.com is prohibited. Unauthorized reproduction
violates United States copyright law (17 USC 101 et seq.), as does retransmission by facsimile
or any other electronic means, including electronic mail.
f; BLASTnewsletters
156
Sent:
To:
Monday, January 10, 2011 9:02AM
Subject: Re: (WisPolitics.com) Week Ahead -- 10 Jan. 2011
Gov just signed order on lowering flags for arizona. Please draft a release. Dorothy has the order
From: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV
Sent: Monday, January 10, 2011 06:42AM
Subject: Fw: (WisPolitics.com ) Week Ahead -- 10 Jan. 2011
From: WisPolitics Staff,...__
To: Werwie, Cullen J- G ~
Sent: Man Jan 10 06:25:27 2011
Subject: (WisPolitics,com ) Week Ahead -- 10 Jan. 2011
WisPolitics Week Ahead
10 January 2011
See the full WisPolitics.com Calendar as it is updated throughout the week:
http://www.wispolitics.com/index.imi?Content=22
Catch up quickly on top weekend headlines:
. See legislative committee hearings:
http://committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us
Monday, January 10
--No events listed
Tuesday, January 11
State Government
-"1 0 a.m.: PSC hearing on rule modifications related to certification of resellers, 610 N. Whitney Way,
Amnicon Falls Room, Madison.
http://www.wispolitics.com/index.imi?Article=222630
--11 a.m.: Senate Session, senators will take up procedural matters, Senate Chamber, State Capitol.
http://www.wispolitics.com/1 006/110106 Senate Calendar. pdf
--1 p.m.: Assembly Committee on Judiciary and Ethics public hearing on Gov. Walker's proposed
legislation on tort reform, 417 North, GAR Hall, State Capitol.
69
http:l/committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-11-01 00-2011AJUD-14977 .html
--1 p.m.: Assembly Committee on Rural Economic Development and Rural Affairs public hearing on a
tax credit for companies that relocate to Wisconsin, 412 East, State Capitol.
https://mail.google. com/mail/?shva=1 #inbox/12d627f84b 7ba358
--1:30 p.m.: PSC Region 8 Planning Team Orientation, members will discuss issues related to
broadband access, Chamber of Commerce Meeting Room, 615 E. Washington Ave., Madison.
http://psc.wi.gov/apps/eventcalendar/contentlother.aspx?date=1/11/2011 &id=2076
--3:30 p.m.: Senate Committee on Health, Assembly Committee on Health joint public hearing on
creating a tax credit for health savings accounts, 413 North, State Capitol.
http:l/committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-11-0330-2011 SHEA-
15000.html
Business Events
--11:30 a.m.: WAGE: 2011 Economic Prospects, features presentations by William Strauss, senior
economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago; and Antonio Mello, Wisconsin School of Business,
Flu no Center for Executive Education, UW-Madison.
http://www. wispolitics.com/index. im I? Article=2220 13
--12 p.m.: Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon, features Gov. Scott Walker and Federal Reserve
Bank of Minneapolis President Narayana Kocherlakota, Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive,
Madison.
http://www.wisbank.com/Web/Education/SearchEvents/EventsDetaiiPopUp/tabid/288/xmmid/738/xmi
d/9879/xmview/2/Default.aspx
Wednesday, January 12
State Government
--9 a.m.: PSC Low Income Task Force, We Energies Customer Contact Center, Rooms 113B&C,
N15 W23700 Stone Ridge Drive, Waukesha.
http://psc.wi.gov/apps/eventcalendar/contentldocument.aspx?id=2081
--11 a.m.: Joint Committee on Audit public hearing on a proposed audit of the state's medical
assistance program, 411 South, State Capitol.
http:l/committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-12-11 00-2011 JAUD-14993.html
-711:05 a.m.: Joint Committee on Audit executive session on a proposed audit of the state's medical
assistance program, 41'1 South, State Capitol.
http:l/committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-12-11 05-2011 JAUD-14994. html
-2:30 p.m.: PSC Region 7 Regional Planning Team teleconference.
http://psc.wi.gov/apps/eventcalendar/content/document.aspx?id=2079
Other
--3 p.m.: Department of Public Instruction public hearing regarding proposed rules for training those
who give medication to students, DPI offices, GEF 3, Room 041, 125 S. Webster St., Madison.
70
http://dpi.wi.gov/eis/pdf/dpinr2011 02.pdf
Thursday, January 13
State Government
--9:30a.m.: Special committee on Review of the Managed Forest Land Program, members will
review drafts of bills relating to taxation and distribution of moneys received under the Managed
Forest Land Program, forest enterprise areas, group enrollments under the MFL Program, a
statewide board of review for the MFL Program, annual allowable harvest levels, the designation of
additional managed forest land, and the leasing of managed forest land, LC Conference Room, One
East Main St., Suite 401, Madison.
http://committeesched ule.legis.state. wi. us/files/HearingNotices/11-0 1-13-0930-M FL -14973. html
-"1 0 a.m.: Government Accountability Board teleconference meeting, members will hear matters
related to ballot access or public funding issues for the spring elections.
http:/ /gab .wi.gov/about/meetings/2011 /january
Business Events
--11:30 a.m.- 1:30 a.m.: WIN Milwaukee: Tom Hefty, retired CEO of Blue Cross-Blue Shield; John
Torinus, chairman of the board of directors of Serigraph; and Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin
Technology Council, discuss "Be Bold: The Wisconsin Prosperity Strategy" report to improve the
state's business climate, Crowne Plaza, 10499 Innovation Drive, Wauwatosa.
http://www. wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/events/win/?1 D= 1 012
Other
--10 a.m.: Department of Public Instruction public hearing on administrative rules for library audit
requirements and librarian certification, Resources for Libraries and Lifelong Learning, 2109 S.
Stoughton Road, Madison.
Friday, January 14
State Government
--12:30 p.m.: DNR Wisconsin Council on Invasive Species, Natural Resources Building, Room G09,
101 S. Webster St., Madison.
Other
--11 a.m.: DVA Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day Ceremony, remarks from WDVA Secretary Ken
Black and Gulf War veteran Cpt. Angela Joseph-Gaffke of the Wisconsin Army National Guard,
Wisconsin Veterans Museum, 30 W. Mifflin St., Madison.
Saturday, January 15
--1 p.m.: Birthday reception in support of Joe Wineke for Dane Co. executive, The 5th Quarter, 161
71
Horizon Drive, Verona.
Sunday, January 16
--No events listed
(c)2011 WisPolitics.com.
violates United States copyright taw (17 USC 101 et seq.), as does retransmission by facsimile
('BLAST newsletters
72
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
From: WisPolitics Staff
To: Werwie, Cullen J -
Sent: Mon Jan 10 06:25:27 2011
Monday, January 10, 2011 6:42AM
Fw: (WisPolitics.com) Week Ahead -- 10 Jan. 2011
Subject: (WisPolitics.com ) Week Ahead -- 10 Jan. 2011
WisPolitics Week Ahead
10 January 2011
See the full WisPolitics.com Calendar as it is updated throughout the week:
. Catch up quickly on top weekend headlines:
http://www. wispolitics.comlindex. imi?Content=46
See legislative committee hearings:
http://committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us
JVIonday, January 10
--No events listed
Tuesday, January 11
State Government
--10 a.m.: PSC hearing on rule modifications related to certification of resellers, 610 N. Whitney Way,
Amnicon Falls Room, Madison.
http://www.wispolitics.com/index.imi?Article=222630.
--11 a.m.: Senate Session, senators will take up procedural matters, Senate Chamber, State Capitol.
http://www.wispolitics.com/1 006/110106 Senate Calendar.pdf
--1 p.m.: Assembly Committee on Judiciary and Ethics public hearing on Gov. Walker's proposed
legislation oh tort reform, 417 North, GAR Hall, State Capitol.
http:l/committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-11-01 00-2011AJUD-14977.html
--1 p.m.: Assembly Committee on Rural Economic Development and Rural Affairs public hearing on a
tax credit for companies that relocate to Wisconsin, 412 East, State Capitol.
https://mail.goog le.com/mail/?shva= 1 #inbox/12d627f84b 7ba358
--1:30 p.m.: PSC Region 8 Planning Team Orientation, members will discuss issues related to
73
broadband access, Chamber of Commerce Meeting Room, 615 E. Washington Ave., Madison.
http:/ Ipse. wi.gov/apps/eventcalendar/content/other.aspx?date= 1 /11 /2011 &id=2076
--3:30 p.m.: Senate Committee on Health, Assembly Committee on Health joint public hearing on
creating a tax credit for health savings accounts, 413 North, State Capitol.
http://committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-11-0330-2011 SHEA-
15000.html
Business Events
--11:30 a.m.: WAGE: 2011 Economic Prospects, features presentations by William Strauss, senior
economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago; and Antonio Mello, Wisconsin School of Business,
Flu no Center for Executive Education, UW-Madison.
http://www. wispolitics. com/index. iml? Article=222013
--12 p.m.: Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon, features Gov. Scott Walker and Federal Reserve
Bank of Minneapolis President Narayana Kocherlakota, Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive,
Madison.
http://www.wisbank.com/Web/Education/SearchEvents/EventsDetaiiPopUp/tabid/288/xmmid/738/xmi
d/9879/xmview/2/Default.aspx
Wednesday, January 12
State Government
--9 a.m.: PSG Low Income Task Force, We Energies Customer Contact Center, Rooms 113B&C,
N15 W23700 Stone Ridge Drive, Waukesha.
--11 a.m.: Joint Committee on Audit public hearing on a proposed audit of the state's medical
http://committeeschedule.legis.state.wi.us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-12-11 00-2011 JAUD-14993.html
--11:05 a.m.: Joint Committee on Audit executive session on a proposed audit of the state's medical
http://committeeschedule.legis.state.wi. us/files/HearingNotices/11-01-12-11 05-2011 JAUD-14994.html
--2:30p.m.: PSC Region 7 Regional Planning Team teleconference.
Other
--3 p.m.: Department of Public Instruction public hearing regarding proposed rules for training those
who give medication to students, DPI offices, GEF 3, Room 041, 125 S. Webster St., Madison.
Thursday, January 13
State Government
--9:30a.m.: Special committee on Review of the Managed Forest Land Program, members will
74
review drafts of bills relating to taxation and distribution of moneys received under the Managed
Forest Land Program, forest enterprise areas, group enrollments under the MFL Program, a
statewide board of review for the MFL Program, annual allowable harvest levels, the designation of
additional managed forest land, and the leasing of managed forest land, LC Conference Room, One
East Main St., Suite 401, Madison.
http://comm itteeschedule.legis.state. wi. us/files/HearingNotices/11-0 1-13-0930-M FL-14973. htm I
--10 a.m.: Government Accountability Board teleconference meeting, members will hear matters
related to ballot access or public funding issues for the spring elections.
http://gab.wi.gov/about/meetings/2011/januarv
Business Events
--11:30 a.m.- 1:30 a.m.: WIN Milwaukee: Tom Hefty, retired CEO of Blue Cross-Blue Shield; John
Torinus, chairman of the board of directors of Serigraph; and Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin
Technology Council, discuss "Be Bold: The Wisconsin Prosperity Strategy" report to improve the
state's business climate, Crowne Plaza, 10499 Innovation Drive, Wauwatosa.
http://www. wisconsintechnologycouncil. com/events/win/? I D= 1 012
otfier
--10 a.m.: Department of Public Instruction public hearing on administrative rules for library audit
requirements and librarian certification, Resources for Libraries and Lifelong Learning, 2109 S.
Stoughton Road, Madison.
Friday, January 14
State Government
--12:30 p.m.: DNR Wisconsin Council on Invasive Species, Natural Resources Building, Room G09,
101 S. Webster St., Madison.
Other
--11 a.m.: OVA Gulf War Illnesses Recognition Day Ceremony, remarks from WDVA Secretary Ken
Black and Gulf War veteran Cpt. Angela Joseph-Gaffke of the Wisconsin Army National Guard,
Wisconsin Veterans Museum, 30 W. Mifflin St., Madison.
Saturday, January 15
--1 p.m.: Birthday reception in support of Joe Wineke for Dane Co. executive, The 5th Quarter, 161
Horizon Drive, Verona.
Sunday, January 16
--No events listed
75
(c)2011 WisPolitics.com.
violates United States copyright law (17 USC 101 et seq.), as does retransmission by facsimile
~ 8LASTnewsletters
76
From: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV
Sent:
To:
Friday, January 07, 2011 4:09 PM
Subject: FW: (WisPolitics) REPORT-- 7 January 2011
Cullen Werwie
Press Secretary
Office of Governor Scott Walker
Phone: (608) 267-7303
Email: Cullen.Werwie@WI.Gov
www.walker.wi.gov
-----Original Message-----
From: WisPolitics Staff fm<iltr
Sent: Friday, January 07, 2011
To: Werwie, Cullen J- GOV
Subject: (WisPolitics) REPORT-- 7 January 2011
BREAKING NEWS: Gov. Scott Walker continues to assemble his team, with Cindy Polzin notifying lawmakers today that
she will serve as his legislative liaison. See more on Walker appointments in Names in the News.
WisPolitics REPORT
7 January 2011
Exclusively for WisPolitics Gold and Platinum Subscribers
Click this link to access the mobile version of the REPORT:
http:/ /wispo I itics.com/i ndex _pd a. i m I? Article=222584
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewsletters.com/li n k. php ?M=97690& N=2456&L=664 73& F= H>
QUOTES OF THE WEEK
It is through frugality and moderation in government that we will see freedom and prosperity for our people.
-Gov. Scott Walker in his inauguration address as the 45th governor of Wisconsin. See complete coverage in Quorum
Ca II: http:/ I q uoru mea II. wispo I itics.com/ <http:/ I a pp. blastnewslette rs.co m/1 ink. ph p? M =97690&N=2456& L= 16487 &F=H>
In general, I agreewith the idea of making the Commerce Department more nimble and more able to react to
businesses that are either hoping to expand, leave or hoping to come. I do not support ceding our authority to help craft
how it will operate.
-New JFC co-chair Robin Vos, R-Rochester, on his concerns with some aspects of revamping Commerce to create the
Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. Walker unveiled his Commerce proposal Thursday.
No matter who the employer is or where they work, laying people off only takes the governor further away from his goal
of creating 250,000 new jobs.
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-Scott Spector of AFT-Wisconsin, which represents about 100 Commerce Department employees, on the news that
state workers wouldn't be employed in the new WEDC.
Let's face it, every company looking to cut corners in order to make a bigger buck can come to Wisconsin without worry
that they will be held accountable for seriously injuring or killing you or a member of your family.
- Mike End, president of the Wisconsin Association for Justice, on Walker's tort reform proposals. The governor called
those accusations "fundamentally untrue." See WisPolitics coverage: http://wispolitics.com/index.imi?Article=222239
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewslette rs.co m/1 ink. ph p ?M =97690&N=2456&L=664 7 5& F= H>
We're going to treat them like every other bill that makes its way through our house.
-Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, acknowledging he has concerns about some of the new governor's
special session bills being ready by the end of February, the deadline Walker laid out for action.
It's almost like a dictatorship, or total control by a king. It's way beyond what our democracy calls for.
-Rep. Gary Hebl, D-Sun Prairie, on Walker's proposals for reforming the administrative rules process.
This is not what the people of Wisconsin want, this is not the bipartisanship that we've been trying to work on.
-Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, ripping Republicans for approving private attorneys to help them
with the redistricting process. See WisPolitics coverage: http:/ /wispolitics.com/index.imi?Article=222367
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewsletters.com/1 ink. ph p ?M =97690&N=2456&L=664 7 4& F= H >
The .reason why you have outside representation is because it is a sensitive area and you need experts on it. If there's a
legal challenge we want to make sure it passes constitutional muster.
-Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald, R-Horicon, saying redistricting will work through the legislative process like any other
bill,' and that Dems can offer amendments.
Not one bill will create jobs. We are seeing a blatant bait-and-switch that ignores job creation and focuses on right-wing
social issues.
- Rep. Mark Paean, 0-Madison, on the first 16 bills introduced by Republican lawmakers in the new session, including 15
by Rep. Joel Kleefisch of Oconomowoc and one to implement the "castle doctrine" for self-defense of home and
property by Rep. Dean Kaufert of Neenah.
It's not a priority bill. I don't think it's going to jump ahead of jobs and the economy.
- Kaufert.
We need to play well in the sandbox with the Tea Party movement and the conservative movement. Certainly in
Wisconsin we did that.
-State GOP chairman Rei nee Priebus in a debate with the four other candidates to take over the Republican National
Committee.
When people come in and have problems with the federal government in terms of working through the bureaucracy or
when they have regulatory overburden, I'll have a very receptive ear. People coming to me begging for money, I'll be a
little bit more skeptical about it.
-U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh, on what his role would be if he's granted his wish to be appointed to the Senate
Appropriations committee. Johnson was sworn into office Wednesday.
We had basically a year to absorb it. We kept trying to figure out a way to overcome this mantra that was out there
about the stimulus package and the health care law, votes I stand behind. (But) it did appear for almost the whole year
this was going to be very difficult to do. I was more than prepared for what appeared to be possible.
- Former U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, 0-Middleton, on coming to terms with his loss in last year's election. Feingold will be a
visiting professor at Marquette Law School and begin working on a book. See more in DC Wrap:
http:/ I de. wispolitics.com/ <http:/ I a pp. b lastnewslette rs.com/1 ink. ph p? M =9 7 690&N=2456&L= 15878&F= H>
83
POLITICAL STOCK REPORT
--A collection of insider opinion--
( Dec. 18-Jan. 7)
Rising
Scott Walker: Conservatives are almost giddy about the guv's inauguration as Republicans assume full control of the
Capitol, and Walker gets off to a quick start rolling out special session bills he wants on his desk by March. Fans marvel
at the elegance of his inaugural ball as well as his swearing in ceremony, though some are bewildered at the inclusion of
the hippie-styled song "Aquarius" (the guv's Nov. 2 b-day makes him a Scorpio). Still, the guv is on a roll, Republicans
say. He finally has his administration team in place, and insiders see a mix of leggies, former Thompson aides and others
that strike a competent tone. Dems, meanwhile, get in digs on Walker allowing an insurance industry type to run OCI
and frequent DNR critic Cathy Stepp to oversee that agency. While Republicans largely applaud the concepts in the
special sessions bills, there are signs the Legislature won't be a rubber stamp. GOP leggie leaders have some issues with
his call to overhaul the Commerce Department and to givehimselffinal say on administrative rules. Some grumble
about Walker stepping on the Legislature's turf. Still, some say it's expected that there will be a give and take between
Walker and his legislative counterparts. But in the end, insiders agree, they're all headed in the same direction.
See more below on the special session.
Legislators: A bevy of current and former leggies joins the Walker administration, taking key posts at Administration and
other agencies. After years of strained relations with Doyle, Republicans and Dems alike feel they have a guv --an ex-
legislator himself-- who at least recognizes they comprise a third branch of government. Walker continues to meet with
lawmakers from both sides, even inviting Dems to give him ideas. Some see evidence of a much different approach
under Walker in the early concerns GOP leaders raised about the proposed overhaul of Commerce and changes to the
administrative rules process to give Walker a say. Rather than try ramming the changes through the Legislature with an
iron fist-- Doyle's approach-- Walker's administration meets with GOP leaders to hash out changes. At least eight
current and former state lawmakers have become Walker appointees to date, including cabinet secretaries Mike
Huebsch, Mark Gottlieb, Cathy Stepp and Ben Brancel.
County exec races: Contests in Dane and Milwaukee counties capture the attention of insiders and media as they shape
up into competitive races with some well-funded candidates. The entry of liberal philanthropi.st Chris Abele in
Milwaukee County gives handicappers pause considering he comes in with no political baggage, no political experience
and the ability to self-fund. More conventional candidates from left to right include controversial County Board Chair
and acting County Exec Lee Holloway, who figures to get a large share of the African-American and union vote; Jim
Sullivan, the ex-state senator who j ~ s t lost a tough campaign but built his name ID on the Milwaukee airwaves; and state
Rep. Jeff Stone, the Republicans' choice. Insiders downplay the suggestion that the race may turn into a proxy fight
between Barrett and Walker after two Barrett guv campaign hands join Abele's campaign. But Dems cjesperately want a
win, insiders say. The races are generally viewed as sprints with the advantage to those with name ID or those who can
build it quickly. In Da'ne County, former County Exec Jon Barry announces and then un-announces, leaving conservative
Dane County BoardSupv. Eileen Bruskewitz as the leading candidate from the right in a field that includes former
Commerce Deputy Secretary Zach Brandon, Board Chair Scott McDonell, state Rep. Joe Parisi, former state DPW Chair
Joe Wineke and Spencer Zimmerman, a McFarland resident who ran against Parisi as a Republican this fall.
Scott Jensen: Depending on one's perspective, the former Assembly speaker either got some justice or successfully
gamed the system. But either way, he finally resolves the more than 8-year-old felony charges against him for using
public employees for political campaigns with a settlement by his home county DA in Waukesha. Jensen's civil forfeiture
means he won't serve jail time. Jensen and his backers celebrate the decision, believing he was unfairly prosecuted by
former Dane County DA Brian Blanchard for actions that had gone on for years before he ever set foot in the speaker's
84
office. Prosecutors were out to ruin people's lives, Jensen charges in his only post-plea interview. Dems, meanwhile,
complain Jensen was able to use his connections and resources as a former speaker to drag out his case and finally
found a favorable venue in his home county with a prosecutor who had nothing to do with the original probe.
Doyle pardons: The outgoing guv and former AG and DA pardoned 177 people during his final year in office, a dramatic
uptick from previous years. In the fimil weeks of 2010 alone, Doyle granted more pardons than he did in 2009, when he
handed out 51. In the early years of his two terms, Doyle granted between four and 18 pardons a year before doing 35
in 2008. His office noted the requests for pardons jumped dramatically along the way with 1,500 requests in 2010,
compared to 887 in 2009 and 417 in 2008.
Mixed
Reince Priebus: The state GOP chair continues to be the frontrunner in the race for national chair, but his performance
at the first debate among RNC candidates fails to impress many in the national media. Some critique his performance as
overly general and cautious, complaining he approached the debate as a frontrunner just looking to get out of there
without making a mistake. To some, he doesn't light up the crowd the way other candidates did. Still, Priebus backers
say he did exactly what he had to do, which was lay out his vision for the party. Even if his performance was uneven,
Priebus continues to build momentum on the endorsement front. With some 30 RNC members on his side, Priebus has
far more public endorsements than any of his rivals. He would need 85 votes from the 168-member committee to win
the chairmanship, and he continues to be in the best shape to win the office, Republicans say.
Louis Butler: The former state Supreme Court justice is again nominated for the federal bench in Madison, prompting
some insiders to ask whether the third time will be the charm. Others, however, question how Butler's nomination will
fare any better with a smaller Dem majority and a hyper-partisan atmosphere. Conservatives continue to see Butler as
too liberal and activist for the federal court, while backers complain how unusual it is for a district court nominee to get
caught up in politics. Some argue the president wouldn't have sent Butler's nomination back to the Senate a third time
unless there was some expectation he'll get a vote this time, and backers keep their fingers crossed.
Supreme Court candidates: As expected, four candidates file this week for the state Supreme Court race. But in an
unusual twist, two file applications for public financing that meet all the requirements, one asks for taxpayer funding
even though he missed one of the benchmarks and a fourth decides to privately finance her campaign instead. The
campaign will be the first under the Impartial Justice Act that publicly funds Supreme Court races. Still, Justice David
Prosser remains a favorite among insiders to win re-election. Assistant AG JoAnne Kloppenburg and Marla Stephens,
head of the appellate division for the state public defender's office, seem to be the top contenders for the progressive
vote with Madison attorney Joel Winnig acknowledging that he got into the race mainly to raise some issues. Along with
Prosser, Kloppenburg files a completed application for the public financing, while Stephens decides to go out on her
own. That decision strikes some progressives as odd considering the effort those on the left put into passing the system
into law, and they say it may ultimately hurt Stephens with liberals. Still, others argue the $100,000 available in the
primary and $300,000 for the general simply isn't enough to fund a competitive statewide race. Others say her decision
also likely reflects the difficulty of scrounging up 1,000 small-dollar donors to qualify for the public money. Winnig pulled
in enough donors to qualify, but exceeded the limit on cash donations, though he asks the GAB to award him the public
money anyway. But in the end, most observers expect the WMCs of the world to vastly outspend anything the
candidates get in public money and to do it through issue ads that don't trigger the matching contribution aspect of the
law. Observers from both sides said GOP-leaning associations have money lined up to help Prosser if he needs it,
especially since losing him would erode conservative control of the court.
See more on the court race below.
Traffic deaths: For the first time in more than six decades, Wisconsin has now gone three straight years with fewer than
600 traffic deaths each year. The state ended 2010 with 564 traffic fatalities, 22 more than in 2009 but 112 below the
five-year average. The last time the state went three straight years with fewer than 600 traffic deaths annually was
1942-44. Still, motorcyclist deaths were up from 84 in 2009 to 104 in 2010, which transpo officials chalk up to excessive
85
speeds, impaired riding and a lack of awareness about potential hazards. Pedestrian fatalities also increased from 36 in
2009 to 54 last year.
Falling
Bipartisanship: Every session, lawmakers pledge to work together in a bipartisan fashion, saying the voters demanded
they do so just months earlier at the polls. And every session, insiders say, those bipartisan pledges seem to quickly
disappear. This time, it only took a couple of days before Dems cried foul after Republicans refused to allow them to hire
outside attorneys to aid in redistricting while approving contracts with two firms to aid the GOP. Dem leaders howl that
Republicans are setting the stage for a partisan process and charge the only conclusion is they intend to gerrymander
districts for their own gain. Republicans shrug off the complaints as over the top, pointing out, after all, they won in
November. That means they're in charge and will handle redistricting just like any other bill, giving Dems plenty of
opportunity to influence the maps through the normal legislative process. The guv continues his efforts to reach out to
both sides. But Dems also jump on Republicans after two lawmakers file bills on the first day of the session that would
eliminate same-day registration, create a castle doctrine in Wisconsin and grant a tax credit for research facilities--
unless they're engaged in stem cell research. So much for getting along, insiders chuckle.
Milwaukee Archdiocese: The Catholic archdiocese files for bankruptcy protection, calling it a necessary step to fairly
compensate victims of the sex abuse scandal. The victims, however, charge the church is making the move to protect its
secrets, not assets. Either way, a court will now sort out how much the archdiocese will pay in the more than a dozen
civil fraud lawsuits filed over its handling of clergy sex abuse cases. Church officials blame the move in part on a failure
to reach a mediated settlement with victims and an insurance-related court decision. The plaintiffs, however, say the
church is also trying to prevent top officials from being questioned under oath about their complicity in moving sexual
abusers from parish to parish and deny they rejected a settlement. Rather, they say they declined to discuss financial
terms until their non-monetary demands were met, including some disclosure.
State Work force: Public employees have been dreading the prospects of life under Gov. Scott Walker with his promises
to rein in their benefits, and some of that discontent may be showing up in the number of workers leaving government.
The Wisconsin Retirement System received 11,750 retirement applications in 2010, up 7 percent from the year before.
That includes more than 1,000 applications in December alone --the most for any December in the past seven years.
While a number of state employees have expressed frustration with Walker's proposals and worries over what it will
mean for them, state officials say the jump is also likely influenced by Baby Boomers hitting their normal retirement age.
Adding additional angst is Walker's plans to turn the Commerce Department into a public'private entity. Under the plan,
the new entity wouldn't employ state workers so it's unclear right now where current union employees of the agency
would land.
See more in a story below.
Trial lawyers: The guv's tort reform package is a dream for conservatives and big business. But it's a nightmare for the
state's trial attorneys, who have never been among Republicans' favorite causes. The package would make it harder to
win punitive damages, limit product liability for manufacturers and overturn the state Supreme Court's lead paint
lawsuit decision, among other things. The business community hails the changes as a needed step to create stability for
manufacturers and give them freedom from frivolous lawsuits. But critics contend they'd open the state up to a wave of
companies that cut corners. Walker dismisses such concerns, saying those that utilize dangerous practices will still be
held accountable. Insiders say Walker's move is the second going after a core Dem constituency following his call to rein
in benefits for public employees. It's hardball, one Dem says.
*******************************************************
WITH ALL THE NEW FACES IN GOVERNMENT THIS YEAR, YOU'LL NEED A PROGRAM!
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That's why we've revamped our annual printed product to be more of a guide to the new Walker administration, the
new Legislature and the new congressional delegation.
That means the 2011 WisPolitics.com Almanac-Directory-- a glossy, 20-page booklet-- will be an essential item
throughout the year and a good place to advertise your services.
Slated for late January release, it will include photos and contact information for the new political figures along with a
pocket-sized, pull-out directory of top officials.
Some 7,500 issues of the full booklet with the pocket-sized directory will be distributed through chambers of commerce
in Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay and Wausau as well as to all Capitol offices and at important political events
throughout the year.
Ad prices start at $1500 for an inside, quarter-page ad. THE DEADLINE IS FRIDAY JAN. 7. You may also place orders for
multiple copies of the booklet.
For more information: Jeff Mayers at 608-212-9422 or mayers@wispolitics.com
Click here to see the pull-out insert: http://www.wispolitics.com/1006/WISPOLdirectory.pdf
<http:/ I a pp. b lastnewslette rs.com/li n k. ph p? M=97690&N =2456&L=63554&F=H>
Click here to see a rough mock-up of the full booklet: http:/ /clients.makin-hey.com/wispolitics/almanac/
<http:/ /a pp. b lastnewslette rs.com/li n k. ph p? M=97690&N =2456&L=649 23& F= H>
******************************************************
NO LEGISLATIVE RUBBER STAMP FOR WALKER
Scott Walker is giving many the impression that his administration will quickly enact a reform agenda.
But Republican legislative leaders this week sent signals that while there's much they and the newly minted guv agree
on, they're not going to be a mere rubber stamp even if they do want to give him a few victories to crow about at the
State of the State on Jan. 25.
Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald has offered cautious comments about Walker's special session agenda, saying
the Legislature may not be able to meet the guv's timeline of passing the bills by the end of February.
Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, said the bills will go through the regular committee process and said while Walker is anxious for the
legislation to move, "sometimes the process gets bogged down."
On Walker's proposal to give the governor final approval on administrative rules changes, Fitzgerald was cautious in
talking about the potential shift of power.
"We should be always concerned with that. There's got to be a separation of powers there .... We'll see what members
have to say about that," he said.
And Joint Finance Co-chair Robin Vas has raised concerns about what input lawmakers would have in the transformation
of the Department of Commerce into a public-private entity. After Walker released a draft of the legislation Thursday,
which included a provision to give the Legislature the authority to audit the Wisconsin Economic Development
Corporation annually, Vas called it a good first step. But the Rochester Republican also said he expects a number of the
details to be worked out in the budget process.
87
"You and I both know the vast majority of the details are obviously left to be figured out inside the budget, which is
probably a good thing so we'll have plenty of time to talk about and find the right answer and get it right on our first
try," Vas said.
GOP observers say the cautious approach shows that there will be a healthy tension between the legislative and
executive branch. But insiders don't expect the ugly conflicts that often marred Gov. Jim Doyle's relationship with
leggies.
While Dems are hoping for trouble in GOP paradise, Republicans are realistic about the relationship between Walker
and the Legislature.
"No one assumed (GOP lawmakers) were just going to roll over and play dead," said one Walker backer. "The governor
understands that they're going to raise legitimate concerns and work them out."
The current discord, however small, may be the result of "transition pains," as one GOP insider put it. Walker was slow
to put together his cabinet appointees, leaving a small crew to put together sweeping policy proposals and sell them to
legislative leaders.
"I don't think the policy kinks were worked out as much," said the insider. "There's not a disagreement on theory, but
the process. Some of these things are great in theory, but you still have to work through the process. It's tough for a
transition team to come up with firm policy that can become law in eight weeks."
WMC has jumped .in to help Walker, running a statewide radio ad urging listeners to call their legislator and tell them to
"pass Governor Walker's jobs agenda."
Even if there are bumps in the road and legislators fail to pass things on Walker's time line, observers expect agreement
at the end of the day.
"In general they'll get to where Walker wants to go, but it will have the legislative balance it needs," said the GOP
insider.
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT FILINGS ON THE RISE
Public employees enrolled in the Wisconsin Retirement System filed a record number of retirement applications in 2010
after a painful biennium for the public sector-- and with more difficulty likely on this horizon in the 2011-2012 session.
Retirement applications submitted by WRS members rose more than 7 percent last year, according to statistics from the
state Department of Employee Trust Funds. A total of 11,750 retirement applications were submitted in 2010 compared
to 10,952 filed in 2009.
That includes more than 1,000 applications last month alone-- also the largest December total from the last seven
years. The increase follows the election of Gov. Scott Walker-- who has said he'll look at all options to rein in public
sector wages and benefits as the state faces a massive budget deficit-- and coincides with the failure of the Dem-
controlled Legislature to pass a series of state employee contracts for the 2009-2011 biennium.
The largest monthly totals of retirement applications were filed in the spring, however, with more than 1,300 filed in
March, April, May and June. Those retirements were largely attributed to departing teachers. Just under three-quarters
of the approximately 570,000 WRS members are local government employees-- with "a large chunk" comprised of
teachers-- and 27 percent of WRS members are employed by the state, according to ETF.
88
ETF spokesman Matt Stohr said that in addition to formal applications, the agency has seen an increase in retirement
inquiries this year. But he noted that retirements have been steadily rising over the past several years due to the aging
population of public sector workers. He said the department expects the population of retirees in the WRS to double in
the next 10 to 15 years.
"It's just natural that we're going to see our retirement numbers increase," Stohr said.
But it has also been a difficult couple of years for workers as the state deals with continued budget difficulty, with no
relief in sight.
ETF indicated in November that employees would begin paying into the Wisconsin Retirement System this month due to
a shortfall.
And even the tentative agreements dashed by a deadlocked Senate vote last month included no pay raises-- in actuality
a 3 percent cut when 16 furlough days were factored in-- along with higher contributions for health care and
retirement.
Without those agreements, labor watchers have said the unions may try to ride out Walker's tenure under the 2007-
2009 deals already in effect.
"Gov. Walker knows that state workers are great people who do great work," the governor's office said in a statement.
"Moving forward, the governor would like to work with state employees to enact innovative reforms aimed at improving
the delivery of core government services."
Walker has floated the possibility of state employees beginning to contribute 5 percent to their pensions. and increasing
their health care contribution to 12 percent-- numbers he says are reasonable compared to the private sector but that
would also take a larger chunk of employees' paychecks. Walker's office hasn't issued any formal goals other than
bringing "public employee benefits in line with the private sector."
Walker has also said he'd consider ending state employees' right to collectively bargain, while the head of the state's
largest employee union vowed that the governor would find himself in the middle of "labor unrest" if Republicans take
such a step.
"When you push a person to the corner and there's no escape, he'll push back," AFSCME Council24 executive director
Marty Beil said last month.
Other measures that could be on the table include changing collective bargaining on the local level, prohibiting
bargaining over health care plans if an employer offers a "substantially similar" plan, and privatizing some state services.
See WRS retirement numbers from 2004-2010:
http:/ /wispolitics.com/1006/110106_ETF _retirement_statistics2.pdf
<http:/ /app.blastnewsletters.com/link.php?M=97690&N=2456&L=66476&F=H>
KLOPPENBURG, PROSSER REPORTS SHOW SUPPORT FROM LEFT, RIGHT
Justice David Prosser's first campaign finance report shows a bevy of supporters in the real estate and banking
industries, along with a number of big-name GOP supporters, according to a WisPolitics review.
89
Assistant AG JoAnne Kloppenburg, who like Prosser filed an application this week for public financing, listed several
donors from the progressive community, along with a number of donations from her fellow state employees,
particularly those associated with the UW System.
The Government Accountability Board staff is now reviewing both applications for public financing and will make a
recommendation on Tuesday on whether Kloppenburg and Prosser met the requirements under the Impartial Justice
Act to collect a $100,000 public grant. The board will vote on the recommendations Thursday.
Madison attorney Joel Winnig has also asked the board to give him a public grant, even though he exceeded the act's
limit on how much he could receive in cash donations. A GAB spokesman said Winnig is expected to address the board
at Thursday's meeting to make his case.
Still, Winnig has said he is running in part to raise issues in the Supreme Court race and is not generally viewed by
insiders as a real threat to make it through the primary. Insiders generally expect Prosser to making it through the
February election as the overwhelming choice of conservatives. Kloppenburg and Marla Stephens, the head of the
appellate division at the public defender's office, are considered the main competitors for the liberal vote to oppose
Prosser come April.
Stephens has decided to forgo public financing and will privately fund her campaign.
Candidates for public financing were required to collect at least 1,000 donations of between $5 and $100 to qualify for
the grants. They are also required to report the occupation of any donor contributing at least $50, though Kloppenburg
and Prosser frequently reported the information for smaller contributions.
Kloppenburg's report listed $100 donations from Matt Rothschild, publisher of the Progressive, Wisconsin Public Radio
host Michael Feldman, former Department of Health and Family Services Secretary Helene Nelson and Dane County
Exec Kathleen Falk.
Kloppenburg also lis.ted donations from former Supreme Court candidate Linda Clifford and her husband, Keith, along
with Scott Hassett, the former DNR secretary under Gov. Jim Doyle and Dem AG candidate last faiL
Others who donated include Steve Hiniker, director of 1000 Friends of Wisconsin; Lisa Subeck, executive director of
NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin; La Crosse County Supv. Tara Johnson, aDem who ran unsuccessfully for the state Senate
in 2008; and Steven Elbow, a reporter for the Capital Times who covers the courts.
Kloppenburg also reported donations from at least 64 state employees and at least 130 people associated with the UW
System and its various entities.
Meanwhile, almost 20 percent of Prosser's more than 2,000 donors listed occupations in real estate, banking or health
care.
He also received donations from U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh, U.S. Rep. Tom Petri, R-Fond duLac, and former GOP
Gov. Scott McCallum and his wife Laurie.
Prosser's donations from the real estate industry include Bill Malkasian and Mike Thea with the Wisconsin Realtors
Association. He also received donations from Jim Villa, a longtime Walker confidante who works in real estate, and
freshman GOP state Rep. Roger Rivard, a real estate agent.
Other GOP lawmakers who donated to Prosser's campaign include: State Reps. Keith Ripp, Jeff Stone, Gary Tauchen, Dan
Knodl, Robin Vas and Mark Honadel, along with freshman Assembly members Jeremy Thiesfeldt, Paul Farrow, Howard
Marklein and Michelle Litjens.
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Other notable donors include former GOP state Sen. Cathy Stepp, now the DNR secretary, WMC's James Haney, former
Republican state Treasurer Jack Voight and Dane County exec candidate Eileen Bruskewitz.
See the full Prosser report:
http://www. wispo litics.com/ 1006/ Copy_ of _Fi na nee_ Re po rt_P ROSSER _FINAL _1_ 4 _ 2010 _1_ .xlsx
<http:/ I a pp. b lastnews letters.co m/1 ink. ph p? M=97690& N =2456&L=66462& F= H>
See the full Kloppenburg report:
http://www.wispolitics.com/1006/January_continuing_Kioppenburg_for_Justice.xlsx
CAMPAIGN FINANCE ANALYSIS: JOHNSON FUNDED MORE THAN HALF OF HIS CAMPAIGN
U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson spent more than $14.8 million in his victorious Senate campaign. But more than half of his overall
fund raising came from the millionaire Oshkosh businessman's own pockets.
Johnson, sworn in as the state's junior senator this week, took care of more than $8.7 million out of the total raised over
the election cycle, according to federal campaign finance data compiled by the Center for Responsive Politics.
Individual contributions accounted for 37 percent of Johnson's fundraising, with 71 percent of that total coming from
donations classified as "large individual contributions."
Individuals affiliated with Milwaukee-based Fiduciary Management Inc. contributed the most to Johnson's campaign,
according to CRP database OpenSecrets.org, with $18,400 in total contributions. Other companies with top individual
contributions to Johnson included: Sargento Foods with a total of $13,300; Pacur --the Oshkosh plastics company
owned by Johnson-- with $12,900; Bemis Co.-- the Neenah company with ties to Johnson's in-laws-- with $11,850;
Milwaukee's Rite-Hite Holding Corp. ($11,800); and Northwestern Mutual ($10,850).
Blue Cross/Blue Shield was the top PAC donor to Johnson, with $15,000. Nine other PACs donated $10,000 to Johnson,
including Alamo PAC, the American Bankers Association, the Bluegrass Committee, Defend America PAC, Koch
Industries, the Next Century Fund, Utah U.S. Sen. Orrin Hatch's Orrin PAC, Arizona U.S. Sen. Jon Kyl's Senate Majority
Fund and U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan's Prosperity PAC. PAC contributions comprised 5 percent of Johnson's overall fund raising
haul.
Retired donors topped the list of groups contributing to Johnson, with a total of $277,329, according to OpenSecrets.
Leadership PACs contributed $137,500, with $95,350attributed to Republican and conservative interests.
New U.S. Rep. Reid Ribble raised more than $1.2 million in defeating incumbent Dem Steve Kagen in the 8th CD race,
while fellow fresh(llan U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy raised nearly $2 million in beating Dem state Sen. Julie Lassa in the 7th CD to
take over for longtime Dem U.S. Rep. Dave Obey.
Ribble, R-De Pere, raised slightly less than his overall spending total and listed a campaign debt of $191,159. The former
roofing contractor contributed 6 percent of his fundraising total from his own pocket-- more than $79,000.
Some 72 percent of Ribble's fundraising came from individuals, with 90 percent of those coming from large donors.
Donors classified under special trade contractors were the top group donating to Ribble, with $73,400 in individual
money and $21,000 in PAC donations. Individual donors in the health professionals industry donated $65,150, while
retirees contributed $54,000.
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Individuals affiliated with the Bellin Anesthesia Association registered $16,800 in contributions to Ribble. Bellin Health
and Bay Care Clinic employees followed with $14,900 and $10,700, respectively.
Top PAC contributors included $10,000 each from the American Bankers Association, Freedom Project, the National
Association of Home Builders, the National Electrical Contractors Association and the National Roofing Contractors
Association. PACs accounted for 21 percent of Ribble's fund raising over the cycle.
Duffy, R-Ash land, didn't contribute any of his own money, instead raising three-quarters of his $2 million haul from
individuals and 24 percent from PACs. Duffy spent nearly $1.9 million in the campaign.
The top companies whose employees gave to Duffy were: Marshfield Clinic ($16,489); Greenwood-based Grassland
Dairy ($14,400}; Wausau-Mosinee Paper ($14,400); and Wausau Homes ($14,100}. Retirees were the top group donating
to the former Ashland Co. DA with $128,960, followed by $77,096 from health professionals and $45,000 from GOP and
conservative groups.
Seven PACs donated $10,000 each to Duffy: the American Bankers Association, Associated Builders & Contractors, the
Every Republican is Crucial PAC, the Freedom Project, Koch Industries, the National Association of Home Builders and
Prosperity PAC.
See more from OpenSecrets.org:
http://www .ope nsecrets.org/i ndex. ph p <http:/ I a pp. b lastnewsletters.co m/1 ink. ph p? M=97690&N=2456&L=66469&F=H>
WisPolitics.com interview: Reid Ribble
RIBBLE WEIGHS PRAGMATISM VS. POLITICAL PURITY IN INITIAL VOTES
Freshman GOP U.S. Rep. Reid Ribble knows symbolism looms large in a Republican House that stages a reading of the
Constitution and a vote on repealing "Obamacare" even though it's unlikely to become law.
Still, he said in a new WisPolitics interview that such steps, including this week's vote to cut the House budget 5 percent,
were important for Republicans to show voters they're sticking to their campaign promises.
"It would be unseemly to go to any federal bureaucracy or any agency and say we're going to cut your budget but not
our own," the 8th CD rep said.
Wisconsin Dems have already targeted Ribble and fellow freshman Sean Duffy, R-Ash land, accusing them of breaking
promises to cut spending after GOP leaders dialed back $100 billion in targeted spending cuts, blaming Dems for failing
to pass a budget for a fiscal year that's now almost half over. Dems have also criticized House Republicans for their vote
on repealing the health care overhaul after the Congressional Budget Office this week projected repeal would increase
the deficit by $230 billion by 2021.
Ribble also disagreed with the CBO's projection, arguing the legislation will explode the deficit if left in place.
Dems have also been pushing health care opponents to forgo their government health care if they seek to repeal it for
the rest of the nation. Ribble said Republicans want health care for everyone. But they don't believe it's "someone else's
responsibility to pay for it." He'll cover 35 percent of his health care costs, he said.
"It's not Obamacare under any stretch of the imagination," Ribble said. "I think that's political mumbo jumbo in many
respects."
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Republicans in D.C. are also weighing whether to support increasing the nation's debt limit as the government continues
to close in on the ceiling. By some estimates, the mark could be hit by late March.
U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh, expressed skepticism in one interview this week about increasing the debt limit.
House Budget Chair Paul Ryan, meanwhile, said the ceiling will have to be raised, but Republicans won't support doing
so without some concessions.
Ribble suggested he falls in line more with the Ryan position.
"There's merit to the argument that you can't let the government default on its bills," Ribble said. "I'm a pretty
pragmatic guy, but I'm going to very forcefully try for spending cuts before that."
Listen to the full interview:
http://www. wispolitics.co m/1006/110106Rib b le. m p3
<http:/ I a p p. b lastnewsletters.com/1 ink. ph p ?M =97690&N = 2456&L=66463&F=H>
WisPolitics.com interview: Paul Farrow
REP. FARROW IN A FAMILIAR PLACE
Once your mom caps off a more than two-decade career in public service with a stint as lieutenant governor, the Capitol
becomes a familiar place.
But newly elected GOP state Rep. Paul Farrow says it was a little different going into the building this week.
"When you have your name on the door, it takes a totally different feeling as you walk in," Farrow said in a new
WisPolitics interview. "It's just incredible."
Farrow, R-Pewaukee, is one of 30 freshman members to join the Assembly this week. But he's not exactly the newbie
some of the others are.
He remembers passing out pencils at 13 for his mom's first run for village trustee in 1977 and doing lit drops in college
for Margaret Farrow's first Assembly campaign.
Even so, he said he's still learning the processes of the building, just like his new colleagues.
The 25 freshman Republicans account for just under half of the GOP caucus, an unusual influx of new blood. And Farrow
said he expects there to be a special bond for the new lawmakers, as is for any freshman class. But he doesn't see a
freshman caucus or the group meeting as a unit, despite speculation about a "Tea Party Caucus."
Rather, he sees the freshmen relying on each other for their expertise, as they will with their mentors and caucus
leaders.
"The excitement we have, the energy level for the group is great." Farrow said. "We're here to get things done right."
Farrow, who plans to continue his home inspection business while serving in the Legislature, said he's not sure what bills
he might want to author first. He also is mindful of the perspective that the best bill isn't necessarily writing a new law,
but getting rid of a poor one.
He also got a good piece of advice from his mother about the best approach to being a lawmaker.
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"The most important thing she said is, 'God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason,"' he said. "She said that's
how you're supposed to use them. Listening is the key for this position."
Listen to the full interview:
http://www.wispolitics.com/1006/110106Farrow.mp3
<http:/ I a pp. b lastnewslette rs.co m/1 ink. ph p ?M =97690&N=2456&L=66464&F= H>
WISPOLITICS.COM UPDATE: ED'S CANCER FIGHT
Despite ailing from chemotherapy treatments that have weakened him, Ed Thompson still offers the good humor and
straight talk that's made him one of the state's most colorful political figures.
Thompson, the brother of former Gov. Tommy Thompson and a 2010 GOP state Senate candidate, has been receiving
chemo for three months for pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he announced back in September. He said the treatment he's
receiving was recently approved by the FDA, and he's one of only a few patients he knows of that are receiving it.
"It knocks the hell out of you. It jusi: really kicks the hell out of you," said Thompson, who made a bid as a Libertarian
candidate for governor in 2002 and ran as a Republican last fall against state Sen. Kathleen Vinehout.
Thompson said publicly announcing his cancer diagnosis, which he did in September, was a dilemma for him. But he said
folks in his hometown of Tomah, where he owns the Tee Pee Supper Club, were already talking about it.
"I still think the cancer cost me that election," Thompson said during a phone call with WisPolitics.
After he went public with the cancer diagnosis, Thompson got letters from friends asking him to drop out of the race and
concentrate on his health. He acknowledged if voters were worried about his ability to serve out the term given his
diagnosis, those were "legitimate concerns." But that didn't take away the sting of losing.
"I sure wanted to win," he said. "I worked hard, but the last couple weeks I was flat on my back in a hospital bed."
Thompson said his sister Julie, a partner in his Tee Pee Supper Club, has been helping out with the business. A month
ago doctors told him the chemo has reduced the size of the tumor on his pancreas by 20 percent. But the disease has
spread to other organs, doctors told him.
He'll return to the hospital Tuesday for his final treatment and a CAT scan. His doctors will tell him where to go from
there.
"If they say 'Ed, we don't think the chemo is going to work,' I'll say 'Well, make my days as comfortable as you possibly
can, please,' and then we'll just deal with it," Thompson said. "The last thing you want to do is suffer, and this is one
disease you suffer with."
WEEK AHEAD
Tuesday: The state Senate will hold its first floor session ofthe 2011-2012 Legislature to take up a pair of procedural
matters.
-- 11 a.m.: Senate Chamber, State Capitol
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Tuesday: Gov. Scott Walker and Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis President Narayana Kocherlakota will be the
guests at the Wisconsin Economic Forecast Luncheon.
-- 12 p.m.: Monona Terrace, 1 John Nolen Drive, Madison
Tuesday: The Assembly Committee on Judiciary and Ethics holds a public hearing on Gov. Walker's proposed legislation
on tort reform.
-- 1 p.m.: 417 North, GAR Hall, State Capitol
Tuesday: The Assembly Committee on Rural Economic Development and Rural Affairs holds a public hearing on a tax
credit for companies that relocate to Wisconsin.
-- 1 p.m.: 412 East, State Capitol
Tuesday: The Senate and Assembly health committees hold a joint public hearing on creating a tax credit for health
savings accounts.
--3:30p.m.: 413 North, State Capitol
Thursday: The Government Accountability Board holds its January meeting by teleconference.
-- 10 a.m.: GAB Board Room, 212 E. Washington Ave., Madison
NEW MULTIMEDIA
**WisPolitics.com Audio
-Assembly Democrats' press c.onference on redistricting
-Sen .. Mark Miller Q&A with reporters on redistricting
-Sen. Scott Fitzgerald Q&A with media on special session, redistricting
-Gov. Scott Walker media availability on special session bills
-Gov. Scott Walker Q&A with TV, radio reporters
- First Lady Tonette Walker's speech at inaugural prayer breakfast
-Gov. Scott Walker address at inaugural prayer breakfast
-Gov. Scott Walker at inaugural ball
-Gov. Scott Walker inauguration speech
- Inauguration ceremony
- Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch at inaugural ball
-Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald interview following Senate inauguration ceremony
Listen to these and other audio clips at the WisPolitics Audio Archive:
http://www. wispo I itics.com/index.im I?Conte nt= 17 3
<http:/ I a pp .blastnewslette rs.com/1 ink. ph p ?M =97690&N =2456&L=22028& F= H>
POLITICAL TV
(Check local listings for times in your area)
"UpFront with Mike Gousha" is a statewide commercial TV news magazine show airing Sundays around the state. This
week's show features a discussion of the new session with state Sens. JOE LEIBHAM, R-Sheboygan, and LENA TAYLOR, D-
Milwaukee, as well as an interview with Milwaukee Archbishop JEROME LISTECKI on the archdiocese's announcement
that it will file Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
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*See viewing times in state markets here: http:/ /www.wisn.com/upfront/
<http://app.blastnewsletters.com/link.php?M=97690&N=2456&L=20267&F=H> *Also view the show online ~ a c h
Monday at WisPolitics.com
Wisconsin Public TV's "Here and Now" airs at 7 p.m. Fridays. Guests include Assembly leaders JEFF FITZGERALD, R-
Horicon, and PETER BARCA, D-Kenosha, on the new legislative session, Wisconsin Civil Justice Council President BILL
SMITH and attorney DANIEL ROTIIER on the governor's proposals for tort reform, and conservative talk show host
CHARLIE SYKES and The Capital Times' JOHN NICHOLS on what to expect from the new administration.
"Sunday Insight With Charlie Sykes" airs at 10 a.m. Sunday on WTMJ-4 in Milwaukee.
"For the Record" airs Sunday at 10 a.m. on WISC-TV in Madison. Guests DAVE ZWEIFEL, JIM PLINER, JANE COLEMAN, JIM
KRAMER, MIKE IVEY, DEIDRE GREEN and ADAEZE OKOLI discuss the Simpson Street Free Press.
NAMES IN THE NEWS
Send items
In the newest edition ofThat's Debatable, SCOT ROSS and BRIAN FRALEY go at it over Gov. Scott Walker's first week in
office: http:/ /wisop inion .com/index. i m l?m d l=a rticle .md l&a rticle=3 2170
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewsletters.com/1 ink. ph p? M =97690&N=2456&L=664 77 &F= H>
The first "WisBusiness: The Show" episode of 2011 includes an interview with University Research Park director MARK
BUGHER, commentary from TOM STILL on hopes for the year ahead and a new stock report. Watch the show:
http://www. wisbusi ness.com/i ndex. im I? Article=222428=
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewslette rs.com/1 ink. ph p ?M=97690& N=2456&L=66468& F= H>
SCOTI WALKER campaign and inaugural spokeswoman JILL BADER bid Wisconsin goodbye this week. Bader, who came
to the state from Tennessee, is headed to Australia for an extended vacation.
The Web site for the lieutenant governor's office now redirects viewers to Walker's Web site. Former Lt. Gov. BARB
LAWTON used the site http://www.ltgov.state.wi.us/
<http://app.blastnewsletters.com/link.php?M=97690&N=2456&L=66470&F=H>. Current Lt. Gov. REBECCA KLEEFISCH
has a page off Walker's site, http://walker.wi.gov/
<http:/ /app.blastnewsletters.com/link.php?M=97690&N=2456&L=66478&F=H>.
BEN NUCKELS, a top aide to former Lt. Gov. BARB LAWTON, is now a VP at Joe Slade White and Company doing media
consulting after managing the successful QUINN for guv campaign in Illinois.
<lov. SCOTI WALKER addressed soldiers of Wis.consin National Guard's 724th Engineer Battalion serving in Iraq via
videoconference during the Rose Bowl halftime. See more: http://dma.wi.gov/dma/news/2011News/11001.asp
<http:/ I a pp. b lastnewsletters.co m/li n k. ph p? M =97 690&N=2456&L=664 79 & F=H >
Following the Wisconsin Badgers' Rose Bowl loss to Texas Christian University's Horned Frogs, acting Dane County Exec.
SCOTI McDONELL made good on his bet with Tarr'ant County, Texas, County Judge B. GLEN WHITLEY by sending a case
of Capital Brewery beer and wearing a TCU sweatshirt at work Thursday. Read McDonnell's letter to Whitley:
http://www .wispolitics.com/1006/010611_ Whitley.pdf
<http:/ I a p p. b lastnewsletters.co m/1 ink. ph p? M =97 690& N=2456&L=66467 &F= H>
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The Dane County Board has confirmed McDonell's appointment of former Dane County Exec. KATHLEEN FALK as interim
county executive. She resigned her post Dec. 21 in order to allow a special election to be held on the AprilS spring
election day. She'll now serve until the new executive is sworn in April19.
WALKER has appointed CINDY POLZIN his legislative liaison. Polzin most recently worked as policy adviser to Attorney
General J.B. VAN HOLLEN and has also served as an Assembly staffer.
Walker also appointed NICK KITZMAN his legislative assistant, JASON CULOnA senior policy adviser for Economic
Development and Regulatory Reform, KIMBER LIEDL senior policy adviser for Human Services and Education, WAYLON
HURLBURT senior policy adviser for Justice and Intergovernmental Relations and ERIC ESSER appointments director.
Culotta's policy assistant is NATE YAHN, Liedl's policy assistants are BECKY KIKKERT and MICHAEL BRICKMAN. Hurlburt's
policy assistant will be PATRICK HOGAN, while Esser will be assisted by ASH LEE MOORE.
DATCP Secretary BEN BRANCEL appointed Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation governmental relations director JEFF
LYON to be his deputy and promoted DATCP Division of Management Services Administrator SUSAN BUROKER to be his
executive assistant. Read the announcement:
http:/ jwww. wispo I itics.com/i ndex. i m I? Article=222462
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewsletters .com/link. ph p? M=97 690& N=2456&L=66458& F= H>
. See this week's PM Updates for other deputies and EAs.
Former Insurance Commissioner SEAN DILWEG has been named vice president, product executive at CUNA Mutual
Group. He will lead CUNA Mutual's mortgage insurance business. See the press release:
http://www .cu na mutua l.co m/po rta 1/ server. pt ?open=514&obj I D=650669& mode=2
<http:/ I a pp. blastnewsletters.co m/li nk. ph p? M=9 7 690& N= 2456& L=664 72& F= H>
Several members of the Doyle administration have landed in various state government jobs. Former DATCP Secretary
RANDY ROMANSKI is at DOT as the section chief for safety programming; he previous worked as the DOT's executive
assistant. CARLA VIGUE has rejoined DOA in the communications office. Vigue previously worked in Doyle's press shop
before transferring to DOA and then going back to the guv's office this summer to take over as communications director.
The following aides will serve as chiefs of staff for Wisconsin lawmakers this session: PHIL KARSTING for U.S. Sen. HERB
KOHL; DON KENT for U.S. Sen. RON JOHNSON; ANDY SPETH for U.S. Rep. PAUL RYAN; BILL MURAT for U.S. Rep. TAMMY
BALDWIN; ERIK OLSON for U.S. Rep. RON KIND; ANTHONY GREEN for U.S. Rep. GWEN MOORE; TOM SCHREIBEL for U.S.
Rep. JIM SENSENBRENNER; DEBBIE GEBHARDTfor U.S. Rep. TOM PETRI; MAn SEAHOLM for U.S. Rep. SEAN DUFFY;
McKAY DANIELS for U.S. Rep. REID RIBBLE; JOHN HOGAN for Senate Majority Leader SCOn FITZGERALD; JAMIE KUHN
for Senate Minority Leader MARK MILLER; ANDREWGUSTAFSON for Assembly Speaker JEFF FITZGERALD; RICH JUDGE
for Assembly Minority Leader PETER BARCA; HEATHER SMITH for Senate Joint Finance Co-chair ALBERTA DARLING; and
JEANNIE HALE for Assembly Joint Finance Co-chair ROBIN VOS.
Former TOMMY THOMPSON administration colleagues TOM FONFARA and BOB SEITZ are joining forces to provide
lobbying, grassroots management and media relations in addition to crisis and association management services.
Fonfara, most recently with DeWitt Ross & Stevens, has joined Seitz as a partner in Arrowhead Strategies LLC.
JIM BENDER has signed on as the vice president of government affairs for School Choice Wisconsin. Bender was most
recently a spokesman for Rep. JEFF FITZGERALD. Read the announcement:
http://www. wispo litics. co m/1006/101220-sew. pdf
<http:/ I a p p.blastnewsletters.com/1 ink. ph p? M =97 690& N=2456&L=66466&F= H>
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President NARAYANA KOCHERLAKOTA is slated to headline the Jan. 11 Wisconsin
Economic Forecast Luncheon at Madison's Monona Terrace Conference Center. Gov. scan WALKER is also scheduled
to speak. See details:
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http://www.wispolitics.com/1006/110104WBA_release.pdf
Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago Senior Economist WILLIAM STRAUSS and Wisconsin School of Business Frank Graner
Chair in Finance ANTONIO MELLO will discuss the economy at the Center for World Affairs and the Global Economy's
'2011 Economic Prospects' event at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 11 at the Fluno Center in Madison. See details:
http://www. wispo litics.com/ind ex. i m I? Article=222013
Former Transportation Secretary FRANK BUSALACCHI recently had a kidney transplant, but is expected to make a full
recovery, says a personal friend, who adds Busalacchi's considering his next opportunities.
One Wisconsin Now deputy research director CODY OLIPHANT and his wife JENA welcomed their second child Monday.
HAYDEN MICHAEL was 6 pounds, 9 ounces at birth.
With the inauguration of ELIZABETH COGGS this week to the Assembly, the Coggs family became the first in Wisconsin
history in which the father, mother and daughter all served in the Legislature. Elizabeth Coggs' parents are former state
Reps. ISAAC COGGS and MARCIA COGGS. Elizabeth Coggs replaced retired Rep. ANNETIE POLLY WILLIAMS, who was the
longest-serving woman in the history of the Assembly. Read the press release:
http://www. wispo litics.com/i nd ex. i m I? Article=221835
<http:/ I a p p. blastnewslette rs.com/1 ink. ph p? M =97 690& N = 2456&L=66460&F= H>
A memorial service for VELMA L. COGGS is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at Calvary Baptist Church in Milwaukee.
Visitation is Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Coggs is the mother of Milwaukee Ald. MILELE COGGS, the sister of state Sen.
SPENCER COGGS and cousin of Reps. ELIZABETH COGGS and LEON YOUNG. She died following a long Hlness Jan. 3 at age
64. Read the obituary: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/jsonline/obituary.aspx?n=velma-l-
coggs&pid=147605751&fhid=12987 <http:/ /app.blastnewsletters.com/link.php?M=97690&N=2456&L=66471&F=H>
For more Names in the News, see subscriber products from earlier in the week plus the WisPolitics.com press release
page: http:/ /www.wispolitics.com/index.l mi?Content=21
For upcoming events, see the "Week Ahead" in this product and in your e-mail Monday morning. Click here forthe
online calendar: http://www. wispolitics.com/index.lmi?Content=22
If you have a contribution, e-mail staff@wispolitics.com <mailto:wise@wispolitics.com>
LOBBYIST WATCH
(from the state Government Accountability Board)
Authorization to lobby
Organization employing lobbyist
Citigroup Management Corporation
Lobbyist name Granted
Little, Steven C 1/4/2011
Withdrawn
United Migrant Opportunity Services/UMOS Inc Martinez, Lupe 1/4/2011
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WAVE Educational Fund Bonavia, Jeri 1/4/2011
Wisconsin Independent Businesses Inc Dake, Brian
Wisconsin Independent Businesses Inc Gard, John
AARP Bowman, D'Anna 1/1/2011
AARP Lamkins, Lisa 1/1/2011
1/4/2011
1/4/2011
Advance America Cash Advance Centers, Inc. Stewart, Carol 1/1/2011
Grabel, John 1/1/2011 AFSCME Council11
AFSCME Council11
AFSCME Council11
Hoven, Timothy
McMurray, Susan
1/1/2011
1/1/2011
AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin Inc Keeton, Bill 1/1/2011
Alliance for Regulatory Coordination DuPont, Robert 1/1/2011
Alliant Energy Brooks, Bryan 1/1/2011
Alliant Energy Jordahl, William 1/1/2011
Altria Client Services Inc Alston, Garth 1/1/2011
Altria Client Services Inc Kammer, Peter 1/1/2011
Amalgamated Transit Union Local998 Amos-Sikora, Lamar 1/1/2011
American Express Company . Carey, Ray 1/1/2011
American Express Company Childress, Jason 1/1/2011
American Express Company Walby, Kathleen 1/1/2011
American Family Insurance Group Groves Batiza, Monica 1/1/2011
Appleton Papers Inc. Kuehn, Ronald W 1/1/2011
Appleton Papers Inc. Lamb, Jordan 1/1/2011
Association of State Prosecutors Kuehn, Ronald W 1/1/2011
Association of State Prosecutors Lamb, Jordan 1/1/2011
Association of Wisconsin School Administrators Forester, John D
Association of Wisconsin School Administrators Lynch, James M
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1/1/2011
1/1/2011
Aurora Health Care Inc Carey, Ray 1/1/2011
Aurora Health Care Inc Childress, Jason 1/1/2011
Aurora Health Care Inc Roller, Rachel 1/1/2011
Aurora Health Care Inc Walby, Kathleen 1/1/2011
AVIS Budget Group O'Connor, Alice 1/1/2011
Bayer HealthCare LLC (formerly Bayer HealthCare) Fuller, Kevin 1/1/2011
Bio Forward Inc. (formerly Wisconsin Biotechnology and Medical Device Association Inc) Kuehn, Ronald W
1/1/2011
Bio Forward Inc. (formerly Wisconsin Biotechnology and Medical Device Association Inc) Lamb, Jordan 1/1/2011
Bio Forward Inc. (formerly Wisconsin Biotechnology and Medical Device Association Inc) Renk, Bryan 1/1/2011
Boys and Girls Clubs of Wisconsin Carey, Ray . 1/1/2011
Boys and Girls Clubs of Wisconsin Childress, Jason 1/1/2011
Boys and Girls Clubs of Wisconsin Walby, Kathleen 1/1/2011
Brown County Citizens for Responsible Wind Energy, Inc. Marion, Edward 1/1/2011
Celgene Corporation Chesmore, Greg 1/1/2011
Celgene Corporation McDowell, Kelly 1/1/2011
Christian Science Committee on Publication for Wisconsin Farkas, Joseph 1/1/2011
Citizen Action of Wisconsin Kraig, Robert 1/1/2011
Citizens Utility Board Higley, Charles 1/1/2011
Citizens Utility Board Loehr, Kira 1/1/2011
Community Advocates, Inc. Kraft, Debra 1/1/2011
Community Advocates, Inc. Riemer, David 1/1/2011
Community Advocates, Inc. Volk, Joseph 1/1/2011
Community Loans of America McCoshen, William J 1/1/2011
Community Loans of America Pfaff, Shawn 1/1/2011
Community Loans of America Stenger, Scott 1/1/2011
Cooperative Network Association Brandt, Sharon 1/1/2011
100
Clay, Timothy 1/1/2011
Ka lies, Beata 1/1/2011
Manske, John 1/1/2011
Cooperative Network Association
Corrections Corporation of America
. Oemichen, William 1/1/2011
Cottonwood Financial Ltd.
Customers First! Coalition
Dairy Business Association
Rabbitt, James 1/1/2011
Ward, David 1/1/2011
Durham, Kelly 1/1/2011
Brooks, Bryan 1/1/2011
Hoven, Timothy 1/1/2011
Natzke, Ryan 1/1/2011
Bromley, Matt 1/1/2011
Fischer, Laurie 1/1/2011
Jelinski, David 1/1/2011
McCoshen, William J 1/1/2011
Pfaff, Shawn 1/1/2011
Sellen, Jayme 1/1/2011
Dane County Cities & Villages Association Mcintosh, Forbes
Deloitte Carey, Ray 1/1/2011
Deloitte Childress, Jason 1/1/2011
Deloitte Walby, Kathleen 1/1/2011
1/1/2011
Employer Health Care Alliance Cooperative
Employer Health Care Alliance Cooperative
DeMars, Cheryl 1/1/2011
Duffy, Melissa 1/1/2011
Envirotest Wisconsin Inc
Envirotest Wisconsin Inc
Explore Information Services LLC
Kuehn, Ronald W 1/1/2011
Lamb, Jordan 1/1/2011
O'Connor, Alice 1/1/2011
Extendicare Health Services Inc Mcintosh, Forbes 1/1/2011
101
Fair Aid Coalition McDowell, Kelly 1/1/2011
FiveStar Quality Care Inc Mcintosh, Forbes 1/1/2011
Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce & Industry Ciske, Thorn 1/1/2011
General Motors Company (formerly General Motors Corporation) Carey, Ray 1/1/2011
General Motors Company (formerly General Motors Corporation) Childress, Jason 1/1/2011
General Motors Company (formerly General Motors Corporation) Walby, Kathleen 1/1/2011
Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association Langenohl, Tony 1/1/2011
Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Alexander, Jennifer 1/1/2011
Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Little, Kevin 1/1/2011
Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Newton, Delora 1/1/2011
GTECH Corporation Shepherd, Jeremey 1/1/2011
GTECH Corporation Walsh, Kenneth 1/1/2011
Gundersen Lutheran Administrative Services, Inc Richards, Michael 1/1/2011
Gundersen Lutheran Administrative Services, Inc Tempelis, Eric 1/1/2011
HCR Manor Care Mcintosh, Forbes 1/1/2011
Hospice Organization and Palliative Experts of Wisconsin (HOPE) Ramey, Melanie 1/1/2011
Hunger Task Force Janowski, Jon 1/1/2011
Hunger.Task Force Tussler, Sherrie 1/1/2011
IBEW Local Union 2150 Bellcock, Michael 1/1/2011
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102
Interested Parties
Page 2
February 9, 2011
Employee Costs as Share of State Operations by Agency
Agency State Operations Employee Costs Percentage FTE
uw $1 '130, 132,300 $875,293,900 77% 18,483.93
Corrections 1 ,007,690,000 700,483,000 70% 9,679.57
Health Services 252,095,900 159,844,800 63% 2,229.72
Justice 38,678,900 31,722,600 82% 367.08
District Attorneys 42,289,100 42,041,100 99% 380.90
Public Defender 76,775,100 50,029,200 65% 575.85
Revenue 95,648,700 71,072,800 74% 892.73
Courts 96,117,300 89,650,800 93% 718.00
Legislature 72,689,600 58,928,900 81% 758.17
Subtotal 2,812,116,900 2,079,067,100 74% 34,085.95
Other 858,795,900 131,537,600 15% 1,675.71
Total $3,670,912,800 $2,210,604,700 60% 35,761.66
Adjusted Base - GPR Only
Source: State Budget Office
Interested Parties
Page 3
February 9, 2011
State
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Michigan*
Minnesota
Ohio
Wisconsin
Retirement Plans, Other States
Emgloyee EmQioyer- Emgloyer Vesting Period
Contribution covered Contribution
Rate share of Rate
Emgloyee
Contribution
Rate
4.00% 4.00% 16.56% 8 years
3.00% 3.00% 6.26% 10 years
4.5% none 6.05% 4 years
Non- none 8.30% 10 years
contributory
6.00% none 6.50% 3 years
10.00% none 14.00% 5 years
5.00% 5.00% 4.80% Immediate
Source: Wisconsin Legislative Council- study of retirement systems
Normai;Early
Retirement
Qualifications
60/8 or rule of
85; 55/25
65/10 or 60/15
or 55/rule of 85;
50/15
65 or 62/20 or
rule of 88; 55/4
60/1 0 or 55/30;
55/15
65/1 or 30 years
svc or rule of 90;
55/3
60/5 or any/30;
55/25
65/any or 57/30;
55
Source: Schmidt, Daniel, 2008 Comparative Study of Major Public Employee
Retirement Systems, Wisconsin Legislative Council, December 2009 (revised May
2010)
Interested Parties
Page 4
February 9, 2011
Illustration of Health Plan Modification
According to survey data, private employer HMO plans for large employers in
WI typically require the folfowing co-pays:
- $18 office visiV$45 specialist
- $75 ER visit
- $175 for in-patient co-pay.
Instituting these plan design chan9es would reduce premium contributions by
about 5 percent, or about $23 milllon GPR
Premium Contributions for the plans surveyed averaged $1 08/month for single
and $261/month for family coverage
Source: State Budget Office analysis.
Interested Parties
Page 5
February 9, 2011
State of Wisconsin
Services nnd Fringe Benefit Cost Sununnry
Fisc.ru Yenr 2010
Personal Services Costs
%of Total Personal services
Fringe Benefit Costs
1910
191
Comp 3rd Party Claim$
1919 1099 Repor:able
1920 !Vorker Comp Wage Non 1099 I
1921 Wage I
I I I ;Retire
:oclal ' Share
1"31
1: MO iealth
11 oRA Fees
1942 iealth ..
1950 .ffe
1961 reacher 1 t (UW and State!
1969 )the tTotal
1970 >ension ' Bond Pmt
19So 1 1 Related Legal
1999 I
Total Fringe Benefit
%of Total Fringe Benefits
Fringe Benefits% of Personal Services
1,487,6>7.214
39.24%
1,621,779
497,717
1, IS
99
)4
t41
0
42.62%
49.32%
1,961,313,119
61.73%
'""" 707
1,145,986
47.41%
41.62%
342,511,692
9.03%
520,700
1,275,807
614,213
32
346,6)1
0
0
21
3; 28
4! ;,576
-50 144
3.791.462,025
100.00%
1.937,
3.943,' i6
3,574, 15
-9 '
;-
51,
5, !27 :;--
47,345

11,55$ 304 110.'35,1:i5
0 112,633
(2.205.135)
171,632.159 :,721, '00,640
9.97% 100.00%
50.11% 45.41%
Total Personal Services and Fringes $2,221,364,698 $2,777,654.116 $514,143,851 $5,513,162,665
Department of Administration, State Controller's Office
Interested Parties
Page 6
February 9, 2011
Salary and fringe benefit costs comprise 75% of school district expenditures
(2008-09 data)
School District Expenditures 2008-09
Salary 5,243,908,861 49.4%
Fringe Benefits 2,718,937,862 25.6%
Other 2,660,482,918 25.0%
Total 10,623,329,660 100.0%
Source - State Budget Office analysis using Department of Public Instruction school
financial data reports
Interested Parties
Page 7
February 9, 2011
Salary and Fringe as a Percentage of County and Municipal Expenditures
8%
67%
Source: Calculations based on Department of Revenue County and Municipal Revenues and Expenditure Report (2009), 2009 Census Data on Local
Government Employment, and 2009 Bureau of Economic Analysis data on composition of employee compensation by indus!!}'. Assumes fringe
benefits equal to 33.4% of salary.
County and Municipal Expenditure Categories
(in $millions)
Expenditure Category Expenditures %of Total
Salary $3,975 24.7%
Fringe $1,328 8.3%
Other* $10 763 67.0%
Total $16,065 100.0%
*Includes oroorietarv fund ooeraUnQ expenditures.
Source - State Budget Office analysis of Department of Revenue County and Municipal
Revenues Expenditure Report (2009), 2009 Census Data on Local GoveJ;nment
Employment, and 2009 Bureau of Economic Analysis data on composition by
industry.

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