20120523143333208

Downing, Karley - GOV

From: Evenson, Tom - GOV Sent: To:

Friday, May 13, 2011 9:04 AM Evenson, Tom- GOV

Subject: Morning News Update 05.13.11

WEEKLY HEADLINE GOAL: TOURISM AND JOBS

Daily Headline Goal: Governor Walker announces WEDC board members

Office of Governor Scott Walker Morning News Update for May 13, 2011

News Summary:

• Concealed weapons bills draw support. criticism in hearings

• GOP seeks to repeal limits on payday lenders, auto title loans

• Much must happen before GM returns to Janesville

• 25 SEAL helmet cameras capture bin Laden running for his life

Wisconsin's Front Pages: Appleton Post-Crescent Eau Claire Leader-Telegram Green Bay 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

Social Media Update:

Twitter Followers 1 Week Ago: 19,42i Twitter Followers Today: 19,678

Face book Likes 1 week ago: 63,091 Face book Likes Today: 63,120

Nation/World

Laffer: Boeing and the Union Berlin Wall Op-Ed- Wall Street Journal Between 2000 and 2008, 4.8 million Americans moved from forced un·ion states to right-to-work states-that's one person every minute of every day.

Three approaches to handling states' fiscal problems Washington Examiner

45

Gov. Scott Walker's efforts to restructure Wisconsin's relationship with its public employees sparked a national debate over how to address states' budget problems. The governor's critics wrung their hands at the prospect that his "assault" on public employees and their unions would become a model for other states.

25 SEAL helmet cameras capture bin Laden running for his life WLSChicago "The SEALs first saw bin Laden when he came out on the third floor landing. They fired, but missed. He retreated to his bedroom, and the first SEAL through the door grabbed bin Laden's daughters and pulled them aside," the report said.

George W. Bush Gives First Public Reaction to Osama Bin Laden Death ABC News "I met SEAL Team Six in Afghanistan. They are awesome, skilled, talented and brave," he added. "I said, 'I hope you have everything you need. One guy said, 'We need your permission to go into Pakistan and kick ass."'

Milwaukee

Advantages of venture capital legislation touted Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Brookfield - Portraying it as one of just two choices, proponents of venture capital legislation introduced earlier this month touted its advantages at a business lunch Thursday.

Republican plan would speed mining permit process Milwaukee Journal Sentinel As plans for an iron ore mine in northern Wisconsin take shape, Republican lawmakers are crafting legislation to speed the review process and reduce other regulatory requirements for constructing mines.

Concealed weapons bills draw support, criticism in hearings Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Madison - Law enforcement and others urged lawmakers Thursday to require training in a bill allowing people to carry concealed guns, but some speakers pushed back to say the government should impose few if any restrictions on the constitutional right to bear arms.

Records detail threats against Walker, lawmakers Milwaukee Journal Sentinel More than 100 pages of public records released Thursday reveal again how high emotion, bad judgment and anti-social media combined in February to generate a nationwide investigation of threats against Gov. Scott Walker and lawmakers on both sides of his budget-repair bill.

GOP seeks to repeal limits on payday lenders. auto title loans Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Madison - Loans secured with auto titles would again be legal in Wisconsin under a proposal adopted Thursday by the Legislature's budget committee that also rolls back other restrictions on payday loans. Freeze on property taxes gains support Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Madison- In the tightest limits yet in Wisconsin, property taxes would be essentially frozen for two years and then placed under tight permanent caps, under a budget proposal advanced by GOP lawmakers Thursday.

Loss of train funding lamented Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Milwaukee developer Gary Grunau said Thursday that Gov. Scott Walker made "a generational mistake" by refusing to use an $810 million federal grant to extend the Hiawatha train line from Milwaukee to Madison as part of a planned fast rail system connecting Chicago to the Twin Cities and other spots in the Midwest.

46

Early-release deserves long look Editorial- Racine Journal Times Elections, of course, have consequences. We're seeing more of that with each passing day over in Madison as state Republicans continue to roll back the clock on legislation passed during the Democrat administration of former Gov. Jim Doyle.

Madison

Walker eyes plan to give DNR more autonomy Wisconsin State Journal Gov. Scott Walker is considering a plan that would turn the state Department of Natural Resources into a self-contained agency, operating outside many of the rules and regulations guiding the rest of state government.

Threats aimed at lawmakers investigated Wisconsin State Journal Authorities have investigated 89 threat cases against lawmakers of both parties, Gov. Scott Walker and others after the governor introduced his controversial anti-collective bargaining bill in February and Democratic senators fled the state to avoid voting on it, according to Department of Justice records released Thursday.

Battle over UW-system continues Wisconsin Radio Network The battle over the future of the University of Wisconsin System continues. UW-System leaders Wednesday sent an open letter to all state legislators calling for new leadership flexibility, as contained in their Wisconsin Idea Partnership.

Much must happen before GM returns to Janesville Janesville Gazette JANESVILLE -When General Motors laid out aggressive expansion plans Tuesday, speculation again turned to Janesville, where the automaker shuttered its 4.8 million-square-foot plant in 2009.

Green Bay/Appleton

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker wants more DNR autonomy Associated Press- Appleton Post-Crescent MADISON- Gov. Scott Walker is developing a plan to revamp how the Department of Natural Resources is organized, in part to speed approval of environmental permits.

Budget committee goes againsts Walker's recommendation; new enrollees will be eligible for state life insurance fund AP- Oshkosh Northwestern MADISON, Wis. (AP)- The Wisconsin Legislature's budget committee has voted to continue to allow new enrollees in a state life insurance fund that's been around for 100 years.

Editorial: Be consistent with who gets local control Sheboygan Press Under the guise of "local control," the Republican Assembly on Tuesday rejected regulations that would require municipalities supplying drinking water to disinfect it before sending it on to consumers.

La Crosse/Eau Claire

Our view: Walker wise to not start spending again La Crosse Tribune Wisconsin received some good news Wednesday that the state's budget situation is not as dire as originally projected.

47

Supporters make case for concealed carry La Crosse Tribune MADISON- The time has finally come to let Wisconsin citizens carry concealed weapons, gun advocates told state lawmakers Thursday. Wisconsin and Illinois are the only states that prohibit concealed weapons. Republican legislators have been trying for more than a decade to lift the restrictions, but former Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle twice vetoed bills that would have permitted the practice.

Wisconsin union debate sparked harassment complaints from lawmakers Appleton Post-Crescent MADISON -law enforcement officials in Wisconsin reviewed 90 complaints of threats or harassment amid a contentious debate on an anti-union bill, most of them directed at Gov. Scott Walker and lawmakers from both parties.

Wausau/Rhinelander

Safety at center of debate over concealed carry gun bills Marshfield News Herald WAUSAU- Annette Olson traveled from her home in Glenwood City in southern Wisconsin on Thursday to urge state lawmakers to approve concealed carry for the state's gun owners.

48


From: Sent: To:

Subject:

Chris Schrimpf Sunday, May 15, Schrimpf, Chris -Ryan Murray; Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Wall Street Journal Editorial

I believe this will run in tomorrow's paper.

States of Business

Gilkes, Keith - GOV;

Wisconsin jumps ahead in a new CEO survey.

http://online. wsj.com/article/SB1 00014240527 48703730804576313353241550130. html?mod~googlenews wsj

The verdict is still out on the political staying power of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker's collective bargaining and other reforms. But if the opinion of American business counts for anything, he's already helped the Badger State.

Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey of CEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living environment, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history ofthe survey, rising to 24th from 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise, moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 10 spots to sixth.

The Wisconsin jump is especially notable because Mr. Walker and a new GOP legislature only took office in January. This suggests that Big Labor's attempt to make Mr. Walker a national political target had the ironic result of making Wisconsin more appealing to business executives. "Indiana and Wisconsin's governors have been outspoken about wanting to be more business friendly," says Chief Executive director for digital media Michael Bamberger.

CEOs don't make investment decisions based solely on such impressions, but they can get a state a hearing it might not have previously received. Wisconsin still ranked 33rd among all states for taxation, and its grades on other categories didn't change radically. But a company's relationship with employees was also on CEOs' minds. "Rules that make it hard, if not impossible, to separate from a non-productive employee make companies fearful to hire or locate in a state," one CEO wrote.

Texas led the survey for the seventh straight year, followed by North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia . . As for the five worst states, you will not be surprised to learn that they are, in descending order, Michigan, New

Jersey, Illinois, New York and California. Tax-raising Illinois has dropped 40 places in five years and, as the magazine puts it, "is now in a death spiral."

If this survey is any guide, and if his reforms can survive and expand, Mr. Walker may save Wisconsin from a similar fate.

44


From: 15, 2011 8:03 PM Sent: .

To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; , Werwie, Cullen J - GOV

Subject:

Nice.

From: Chris Schrimpf [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 To: Chris - Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Ryan

Werwi<e. Cullen J - GOV

I believe this will tun in tommTOw's paper.

States of Business


http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703730804576313353241550130.html?mod=googlenews wsj

The verdict is still out on the political staying power of Wisconsin Governor Scott Wall<er's collective bargaining and other reforms. But if the opinion of American business counts for anything, he's already helped the Badger State.

Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey ofCEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living environment, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the smvey, rising to 24th from 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise, moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 1 0 spots to sixth.

The Wisconsin jump is especially notable because Mr. Walker and a new GOP legislature only took office in January. This suggests that Big Labor's attempt to make Mr. Walker a national political target had the ironic result of making Wisconsin more appealing to business executives. "Indiana and Wisconsin's governors have been outspoken about wanting to be more business friendly," says Chief Executive director for digital media Michael Bamberger. ·


42

Texas led the survey for the seventh straight year, followed by North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia. As for the five worst states, you will not be surprised to learn that they are, in descending order, Michigan, New Jersey, Illinois, New York and California. Tax-raising Illinois has dropped 40 places in five years and, as the magazine puts it, "is now in a death spiral."


43


From: Sent: To: Subject:

Only ten minute behind:)

From: Chris Schrimpf rmodl>n

Sent: Sunday, May

Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sunday, May 15, 2011 8:13 PM Evenson, Tom - GOV Fw: Wall Street Journal Editorial

To: Ryan


States of Business


http://online.wsj.com/article/SBIOOOI424052748703730804576313353241550130.html?mod=googlenews wsj


Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey of CEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living environment, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the survey, rising to 24th from 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise, moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 10 spots to sixth.


CEOs don't make investment decisions based solely on such impressions, but they can get a state a hearing it might not have previously received. Wisconsin still ranked 33rd among all states for taxation, and its grades on . other categories didn't change radically. But a company's relationship with employees was also on CEOs' minds. "Rules that make it hard, if not impossible, to separate from a non-productive employee make companies fearful to hire or locate in a state," one CEO wrote.

Texas led the survey for the seventh straight year, followed by North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia. As for the five worst states, you will not be surprised to learn that they are, in descending order, Michigan, New

40

Jersey, Illinois, New York and California. Tax-raising Illinois has dropped 40 places in five years and, as the magazine puts it, "is now in a death spiral."


2



Evenson, Tom - GOV Sunday, May 15, 2011 8:15 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Haha I sent the e-mail to him as I hear my phone go off! Geez. :)

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:13 PM To: Evenson, Tom - GOV Subject: Fw: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Only ten minute behind :)

From: Chris Schrimpf Sent: Sunday, May To: Chris - """·•• Gilkes, Keith - GOV;

Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Edit•~riall


States of Business


http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703730804576313353241550130.html?mod~googlenews wsj

Ryan


Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey ofCEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living enviromnent, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the survey, rising to 24th from 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise, moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 10 spots to sixth.


CEOs don't make investment decisions based solely on such impressions, but they can get a state a hearing it might not have previously received. Wisconsin still ranked 33rd among all states for taxation, and its grades on

38

other categories didn't change radically. But a company's relationship with employees was also on CEOs' minds. "Rules that make it hard, if not impossible, to separate from a non-productive employee make companies fearful to hire or locate in a state," one CEO wrote.



39



Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sunday, May 15, 2011 8:54 PM Evenson, Tom - GOV Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Can you change the govs link to one that takes you to the article not to the paper's mainpage?

I think this would work

http:/ Ion I i ne. wsj .com/ a rticl e/S B 10001424052 7 48703 730804576313353241550130. htm l?mod=google news_ wsj

From: Evenson, Tom- GOV Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:14PM To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Subject: Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial


From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:13 PM To: Evenson, Tom - GOV Subject: Fw: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Only ten rninute behind :)

I believe this will tun in tomorrow's paper.

States of Business


bttp://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703730804576313353241550130.btml?mod=googlenews wsj

Ryan


Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey of CEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living enviromnent, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the survey, rising to 24th from 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise,

36

moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 10 spots to sixth.



Texas led the survey for the seventh straight year, followed by North Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Georgia. As for the five worst states, you will not be surprised to learn that they are, in descending order, Michigan, New Jersey, Illinois, New York and California. Tax -raising Illinois has dropped 40 places in five years and, as the magazine puts it, "is now in a death spiral."


2



Yep

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

Evenson, Tom - GOV Sunday, May 15, 2011 9:12 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:54 PM To: Evenson, Tom - GOV Subject: Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Can you change the govs link to one that takes you to the article not to the paper's mainpage?

I think this would work

http:/ Ion I i ne. ws j .com/ a rticl e/SB 10001424052 7 48703 73080457 6313353241550130. htm I ?mod=google news_ ws j

From: Evenson, Tom - GOV Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:14PM To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Subject: Re: Wall Street Journal Editorial


From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Sunday, May 15, 2011 08:13PM To: Evenson, Tom - GOV Subject: Fw: Wall Street Journal Editorial

Only ten minute behind :)


States of Business


http://online.wsj.com/article/SBIOOOI424052748703730804576313353241550130.html?mod=googlenews wsj

34

Ryan


Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey of CEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living environment, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the survey, rising to 24th fi·om 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009. Louisiana continued its rise, moving up 13 spots to 27th on the basis of its improvements in tax climate and deregulation. Indiana moved up 10 spots to sixth.


CEOs don't make investment decisions based solely on such impressions, but they can get a state a hearing it might not have previously received. Wisconsin still ranked 3 3rd among all states for taxation, and its grades on other categories didn't change radically. But a company's relationship with employees was also on CEOs' minds. "Rules that make it hard, if not impossible, to separate fi·om a non-productive employee make companies fearful to hire or locate in a state," one CEO wrote.


If this survey is any guide, and if his refmms can survive and expand, Mr. Walker may save Wisconsin from a similar fate.

35



GOV Press Monday, May 16, 2011 7:46 AM

GOV Press ICYMI: Wall Street Journal: States of Business

ICYMI: Wall Street Journal: States of Business http:/ /online. wsj .com/article/SB 100014240527 48703 7308045763133 53241550 130.html?mod=googlenews wsj

States of Business Wisconsin jumps ahead in a new CEO survey.

The verdict is still out on the political staying power of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker's collective bargaining and other refmms. But if the opinion of American business counts for anything, he's already helped the Badger State.

Chief Executive magazine recently completed its annual survey of CEOs on the best and worst states for business. The 500 CEOs graded the states on taxes and regulation, the quality of the work force and living environment, among other categories. Wisconsin made the biggest jump of any state, and one of the largest in the history of the survey, rising to 24th fi·om 41st in 2010 and 43rd in 2009 ...


CEOs don't make investment decisions based solely on such impressions, but they can get a state a hearing it might not have previously received ...

As for the five worst states, you will not be surprised to learn that they are, in descending order, Michigan, New Jersey, Illinois, New York and Califomia. Tax-raising Illinois has dropped 40 places in five years and, as the magazine puts it, "is now in a death spiral."

If this survey is any guide, and if his refmms can survive and expand, Mr. Walker may save Wisconsin from a similar fate. More at: http:/ /online.wsj .com/article/SB I 0001424052748703 730804576313353241550 130.html?mod=googlenews wsj

33


From: Evenson, Tom - GOV Sent: To:

Monday, May 16, 2011 8:46AM Evenson, Tom - GOV

Subject: Morning News Update 05.16.11

WEEKLY HEADLINE GOAL: GROWING MORE JOBS FOR WISCONSIN

Daily Headline Goal: Tourism campaign kicks off

Office of Governor Scott Walker- Morning News Update for May 16, 2011

Wisconsin's Front Pages: Appleton Post-Crescent Eau Claire Leader-Telegram Green Bay 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 May 15 2011

Social Media Update:

Twitter Followers 1 Week Ago: 19,598 Twitter Followers Today: 19,759

Facebook Likes 1 week ago: 63,103 Facebook Likes Today: 63,125

News Summary:

• READ: Wall Street Journal editorial on Wisconsin's jump in CEO rankings for best/worst states for business • USA hits debt limit today- President. Congress will battle to avoid a default

Nation/World

States of Business Editorial- Wall Street Journal The verdict.is still out on the political staying power of Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker's collective bargaining and other reforms. But if the opinion of American business counts for anything, he's already helped the Badger State.

Dems' thuggery knows no bounds New York Post

29

Blindsided last fall by the election of Gov. Scott Walker, the loss of both houses of the legislature and the US Senate seat held by ultraliberal Russ Feingold, the Democrats have simply refused to accept defeat and instead are continuing the fight by any means necessary.

As Debt Limit Reached. Agreement Still Far Off Wall Street Journal The U.S. government is expected to hit the $14.294 trillion debt ceiling Monday, setting in motion an uncertain, 11-week political scramble to avoid a default.

The union fight is just beginning John Sununu- Boston Globe Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker wants to raise state employee health care contributions to 12.6 percent, still well below the private sector. Even Massachusetts has a bill pending to restrict municipal workers' bargaining rights on health care.

Should drivers pay by the mile instead of the gallon? USA Today WASHINGTON- For nearly 80 years, motorists have paid a tax every time they put gas in their cars. What if they were taxed based on how far they drive instead?

Endeavour Lifts Off on Its Final Flight New York Times KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -The space shuttle Endeavour blasted off successfully on Monday morning on a mission to the International Space Station, after NASA expressed confidence that it had fixed an electrical problem that grounded the spacecraft two weeks earlier.

Milwaukee

Expanding school choice would help kids who need it now Editorial- Racine Journal Times Parents don't have the luxury of waiting for an educational turnaround.

GOP panel cuts plan for prosecutor raises Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Less than a week after. state prosecutors appeared to have won a showdown with Gov. Scott Walker over additional furlough days before July, they suffered a different funding defeat at the hands of the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee.

Without aid, Hiawatha is in a pinch Milwaukee Journal Sentinel After being turned down for federal high-speed rail funds, state officials are now pond~ ring how to pay for millions of dollars of work needed to keep the existing Amtrak service running between Milwaukee and Chicago.

Madison

Capitol protests cost state millions in damage, security Wisconsin Reporter MADISON -When thousands of protesters took control of the state Capitol for a month earlier this year, they left behind thousands of dollars in damage and cost taxpayers millions of dollars in added security.

Green Bay/ Appleton

30

Lawmakers: No easy fix for Wisconsin health care Appleton Post-Crescent GREEN BAY- With thousands of Wisconsinites out of work, financial stress has increased on safety net programs like BadgerCare Plus. ,

Editorial: Speed bumps in U.S. 41 upgrade Green Bay Press-Gazette A proposal to turn U.S. 41 into an interstate highway has obvious potential benefits for Northeastern Wisconsin, but a few questions need to be answered as the project evolves.

La Crosse/Eau Claire

Our view: Child support collection cuts hurt families La Crosse Tribune Critics are fond of saying that Gov. Scott Walker's budget cuts will hurt those who can't help themselves. The governor's proposed cuts in child-support funding are a prime example of why that criticism hits home in La Crosse County.

Wausau/Rhinelander

Firefighters, police officers to fight bill that would limit their collective bargaining ability Wausau Daily Herald Local firefighters and police officers are vowing to fight legislation proposed last week that would limit their ability to collectively bargain and negotiate contracts.

Other View: SeniorCare works, so don't cut it Editorial- Wausau Daily Herald SeniorCare works. It works for the more than 90,000 senior citizens in Wisconsin who participate in the prescription drug plan. It works for the state of Wisconsin. And it works for the federal government.

Auto sales tax under debate Wisconsin Rapids Tribune A little-known feature of Gov. Scott Walker's state budget proposal would transfer a portion of sales tax from automobiles out of the state's general fund to the transportation fund.

Superior/Duluth

Flight honors WWII vets Superior Telegram John Kanzler had to wear his mother down to join the U.S. Navy in 1944. "I was 17 years old; I wanted to go," he said. "I felt the war was going to pass me by."

31


From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Monday, May 16, 2011 6:49 PM Murray, Ryan M - GOV

Sent: To: Subject: Daily Policy and Legislative Briefing

Legislative Affairs Team Senate and Assembly Session Tomorrow

• SB 15- repeal of the collection of certain traffic data (final passage) • SB 57- repeal of early release (final passage) • AB 23- disinfection of municipal water supplies (final passage) • AB 7- voter ID (final passage)

Today's Committee • SB 95- omnibus education bill had a joint hearing in the Senate and Assembly Education Committees. • AB 129- venture capital bill had a joint hearing in the Senate and Assembly Economic Development Committees.

Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Team

Commerce • Venture Capital

o Assembly and Senate Joint Economic Development Hearing on venture capital bill today o Sen. Grothman opposes CapCo Model o Hearing went well - broad support from industry

• Orion Energy Systems

WHEDA

o Meeting with Kevin Crawford and the company COO to discuss issues on energy efficient investments o Also, Orion is possibly interested in the use of a presently vacant facility in Manitowoc (former Busch

facility) for some of its operations

• Venture Capital o WHEDA applying in June for funds from the Fed for their proposed venture capital fund o If Feds approve funds for WHEDA, will not need legislative approval for creation

• Credit Unions o Cooperative Network against JFC action regarding credit union conversion into mutual savings banks

JOBS Hotline • 1 call received

DATCP/DOT/Commerce • Truck Weight Limits

o A small group met to discuss this issue. • Timber groups, the WI County Highway Association, Senator Leibham's office, and Gold'n Plump

were represented on top of agency staff. o DOT has proposed that we can set the state limit for truck weights at 90,000 lbs on 6 axles. o This weight distribution satisfied those present and the cost of the weight increase does not exceed

benefits. • Current weight limit is 80,000 lbs on 5 axles.

o DOT would like to start the process of convening a task force to look into establishing priority routes for industries to use.

• This will help determine where to invest in infrastructure.

Health Care and Education

25

DWD Met with Georgia from DWD on Money Mission, a video game for high school students that the department is considering to promote a greater understanding of financial literacy. The game takes students through a variety of employer opportunities from the hiring process to the management of their own business.

Education • A joint education hearing was held today on SB96 which makes a number of mandate-related changes. The

authors (Kesten and Olsen) testified for a couple of hours and seemed open to making some changes to the bill. • The Rocketship schools people were happy to hear that SB 20 (charter school buildings) passed. • Held interviews today for the UW Board of Regent student (traditional and non-traditional) positions. Eric Esser

will have our recommendations.

DHS News Editorial: Lawmakers No easy fix for Wisconsin health care (Appleton Post Crescent! It appears the increase in enrollment during the five-year period put Wisconsin on a path toward promising beyond what it could afford. But the $6.6 billion Medicaid budget in 2010- comprised of both state and federal dollars- was years in the making and had as much to do with trends in the health care industry as the state's commitment to provide low-cost insurance for low-income families.

Editorial: Other view- SeniorCare works. so don't cut it (Wausau Dailv Herald/ Fortunately, several Republican legislators agree on the value of SeniorCare and oppose Walker's proposal. With their party holding the majority in both the Assembly and the Senate, their support will be crucial. Let's hope they win out. SeniorCare does work.

Wait lists loom under proposed freeze on FamilyCare (Wausau Dailv Herald/ One problem counties might face is that since becoming part of the FamilyCare program, they no longer have staff members or resources to help people waiting for the long-term care provided through FamilyCare.

DCF News Editorial: Child support collection cuts hurt families (La Crosse Tribune) Once that money is collected, it often frees children and families from being dependent on other state-funded programs. Talk all you want about waste, fraud, and abuse. These are children in need- children who need and deserve support.

Education News: The Failure of American Schools !The Atlantic/ Three years ago, in a New York Times article detailing her bid to become head of the American Federation of Teachers union, Randi Weingarten boasted that despite my calls for "radical reform" to New York City's school system, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and I had achieved only "incremental" change. It seemed like a strange thing to crow about, but she did have something of a point. New York over the past nine years has experienced what Robert Schwartz, the academic dean of Harvard's education school, has described as "the most dramatic and thoughtful set of large-scale reforms going on anywhere in the country," resulling in gains such as a nearly 20-point jump in graduation rates. But the city's school system is still not remotely where it needs to be.

Arts, gym to take a hit at MPS !Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) With MPS proposing the elimination of 28 full-time art teachers, 37 full-time physical education positions and 20 full-time music positions, the arts, as most adults know them, could be dead next year in city schools.

Parochial schools try to keep music, art at all costs !Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) While arts education is likely to take a hit in urban public schools due in part to Gov. Scott Walker's biennial budget, many private schools remain committed to providing specials, though parents in some cases pay extra for it.

Green Bay private schools want school-choice voucher program, too (Green Bav Press-Gazette/ Representatives of three Green Bay private schools and private-school advocates joined today to support a plan to bring a school-choice voucher program to Green Bay.

Proponents of the plan say the program would provide lower- to lower-middle income families an opportunity to send children to private or parochial schools.

Couple will match class of 2011's donations !Wisconsin State Journal!

26

Frequent UW-Madison donors John and Tashia Morgridge have pledged to match gifts that this year's graduates give the university. Through Dec. 31, the Morgridges will match gifts ranging from $20.11 to $120.11 to support a graduate's college, school or department, or the university as a whole.

Justice and Local Governments Team

Local Government and Property Taxes:

• Wausau Daily Herald. Firefighters, police officers to fight bill that would limit their collective bargaining ability

Given the recent election successes of Republicans statewide, Klug thinks many voters whose personal finances have suffered have turned on unions, whose members often are long-tenured employees with good benefits.

"Things have taken a turn with the economy, and (unions) are sticking out a bit," Klug said. "It's too bad. I'd hope people would look at the unions and see how they have protected workers' wages and benefits."

• Sheboygan Press. Sheboygan area officials upset over tax freeze proposal

Sheboygan Mayor Bob Ryan has a mixed view on the tax freeze proposal, saying that "it makes sense and it doesn't make sense."

"We've been trying to hold the line on taxes here in the city for the last six years," Ryan said Saturday. "One thing it does do is it takes all taxing entities and makes them all follow the same guidelines. Our school district has raised taxes significantly year after year,· I find it counterproductive for us here in the city to continue holding the line on taxes when other entities don't. So from that respect I can't say I totally disagree with it.

Justice:

• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. GOP panel cuts plan for prosecutor raises

Less than a week after state prosecutors appeared to have won a showdown with Gov. Scott Walker over additional furlough days before July, they suffered a different funding defeat at the hands of the Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee.

The committee late Thursday nixed a proposal from Walker's initial budget plan that would have generated $2 million for prosecutor raises over the next biennium from a surcharge on court filing fees. The funds were intended to slow what prosecutors say is damagingly high turnover among the ranks of experienced staff.

But law enforcement agencies argued that same $2 million is crucial to maintaining an electronic file-sharing system that allows greater cross-jurisdictional coordination.

Veterans:

• The Petersen veteran's board bill will be voted on tomorrow. It is expected to pass. Hopper mentioned to the Petersen office he may be scheduling a hearing on the bill the 251

h .

Waste, Fraud and Abuse:

• I had a meeting with DOA analysts, payroll employees, and Matt Moroney to discuss a Fair Labor Standards Act issue that may be inflating hourly wages. OSER is recommending changes and the compensation plans should be able to improve this as well. It rnay become part of the WFA recommendations.

Concealed Carry:

• Wisconsin State Journal. Editorial: Aim for sensible gun law

Permits and background checks shouldn't be viewed as Big Brother intrusions. They're similar to what Wisconsin has long required for anyone who wants to drive a motor vehicle on public roads.

Wisconsin's gun debate has moved past the competing and contradictory data on crime statistics before and after certain states allowed their citizens to carry concealed guns.

27

Corrections:

• Oshkosh Northwestern. Bill would repeal the state's Early Release Program

"The general public views it as dangerous," Suder said. "It is viewed as a closed-door process that is suspect because you have nameless, faceless bureaucrats who are letting people out."

Winnebago County District Attorney Christian Gossett said the early release program was not put together correctly by Doyle because it doesn't require input from others involved the judicial process.

"If you're not willing to let anyone know what you're doing, it's a budgeting gimmick," Gossett said.

28


From: Sent: To:

Stateside Associates <[email protected]> Tuesday, May 17, 20114:31 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

Subject: Breaking News from Stateside Associates

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

l0~0i0i0~0~0i01~ 0 =~--· ---

Wisconsin Recalls Threaten 527 Coffers

By Michael J. Behm, Senior Vice President

Yesterday, the petition drive to recall Democratic Wisconsin State Senator Julie Lassa ended quietly after organizers of that effort failed to file enough signatures to meet the May 16 deadline.

It was the last remaining petition drive in the efforts by both Democrats and Republicans to recall nine sitting state senators. Six of those senators are Republicans who supported Governor Scott Walker's (R) successful, but explosive, effort to overhaul public sector collective bargaining rights. The other three senators are Democrats who tried to deny Republicans a quorum during that collective bargaining debate by leaving the state.

The state's Government Accountability Board will meet May 23 and 31 to review the sufficiency of the recall petitions; a special election is now anticipated to be scheduled around or about July 12.

While this latest political effort goes largely unnoticed by the national press- contrast with the national media frenzy in Madison earlier this year when Governor Walker took on the public sector unions- two major 527 Groups are watching closely. READ MORE ...

Forward email

[@] This email was sent to [email protected] by [email protected] 1

Update Profile/Email Address I Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe'" I Privacy Policy. Stateside Associates I 2300 Clarendon Boulevard 1 4th Floor I Arlington I VA 1 22201

24

Subscribe to the Stateside Associates' Blog for Regular Local and state Government

News Updates.

~· L.____j

Follow Us on Twitter for the latest Local

and State Governemnt News!

Connect with Us on Linkedln as a fellow

Government Relations Professional!

Like Us on Facebook for current Legislative

Groups Events Information.

~ Ei


From: Sent: To:

Subject:

DWD MB Communications Office Thursday, May 19, 2011 8:33AM 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; File, Nicole L- DWD; Fosdick, Anna - DWD; Gerrits, Karen - DWD; Gottschall, ChuckDWD; 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, ScottDWD; 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; Perez, Manuel - DWD; Phillips, Amelia -DWD; Preysz, Linda - DWD; Reid, Andrea - DWD; Richard, JoAnna - 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 CustomScoop 5.19.11

http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/122206499.html

Walker wants changes to unemployment benefits

By Don Walker of the Journal Sentinel May 18, 2011 1156) Comments

Gov. Scott Walker wants a change in state law that would allow the continuation of federally funded extended benefits jobless pay and is calling for a one-week waiting period before regular benefits are paid out. The bill, which is expected to be considered by an advisory panel on Thursday before it can be sent to the Legislature, would give Wisconsin access to an estimated $89million in federal money for extended benefits.

http://www. wh bl. com/news/articles/2 011/may/19/u nem ployment -benefits-may-be-extended/

Unemployment Benefits May be Extended Madison, WI (WHBL) -Wisconsin's long-term unemployed could get an extra 13 weeks of jobless benefits under a proposal to be considered today by a state council. Governor Scott Walker wants the Unemployment Insurance Advisory Council to endorse a rule change. It would give the state another 89-million-dollars from Washington to provide the benefits. Also, Walker wants a one-week waiting period before regular unemployment benefits are paid out.

http://www.businessnorth.com/briefinq.asp?RID=4044

Business North - The Daily Briefing - Business Newspaper Online EPA stands down on 'Boiler MACT' rule

The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday announced plans to indefinitely hold off on enforcement of its controversial boiler emission rules that affect industries ranging from paper mills to power plants. The American Paper

21

and Forest Association and numerous other industry groups had opposed the EPA rules, which would have required boilers to implement "Maximum Achievable Control Technology," or MACT.

http://www.piercecountyherald.com/event/miicle/id/35950/group/Opinion/

Editorial: Is Walker's message what CEOs want to hear? Gov. Scott Walker has been taking plenty of heat in recent months over his position involving government unions and collective bargaining. Readers have strong opinions on Walker's actions, but he has done pretty well on one campaign promise: the pledge to improve the state's business climate. A recent article in Chief Executive Magazine found the Badger State climbing from 41st best state in 2010 to 24th in 2011 -a jump of 17 spots.

http://www.waow.com/story/14675705/fewer-americans-applied-for-unemployment-benefits

Fewer Americans applied for unemployment benefits WASHINGTON (AP)- The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply for the second straight week, suggesting the job market is slowly recovering. The Labor Department says applications for benefits dropped 29,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 409,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, rose slightly to 439,000, the sixth straight increase

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-biz-0518-incentives--2011 0517.0,4783026,print.storywww.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-biz-0518-incentives--20110517,0,4801317.story

Illinois spending heavily to retain companies; More than $230 million already pledged this year to 27 companies; state won't reveal names of 21 firms

By Alejandra Cancino, Tribune reporter 9:50PM COT, May 17, 2011111inois in 2011 is on pace to provide much more money in financial incentive programs to businesses to retain and add jobs, with the total through early May exceeding $230 million pledged to 27 companies. That is nearly the amount pledged all of last year by Illinois to keep corporations from leaving the state or to attract businesses to relocate or expand here, the Tribune has learned.

http://www.journaltimes.com/news/local/article 688deaea-8144-11 e0-8c57 -001 cc4c002eO.html?print= 1

Unified plans to cut 125 positions

LINDSAY [email protected] I Posted: Wednesday, May 18,2011 6:45am

RACINE- Unified will likely eliminate 125 positions for the next school year to balance the district's budget because of anticipated reductions in state aid, according to estimates released this week. A larger than usual number of retirements and resignations combined with the fact some soon-to-be eliminated positions are already vacant means the district would only have to lay off 60 employees to meet their staffing and budget goals. About 10 additional employees may also be laid off because of the district's changing needs and changing student enrollment, said Unified Chief Financial Officer Dave Hazen.

http://www. wisconsinrapidstribu ne. com/article/2011 0518/CWS03/305180061/Li ncoln-Windows-em ployees-get -backwork?odyssey=tabltopnewslimg IWRT -Business

Lincoln Windows employees get back to work MERRILL-- About 200 local residents have returned to work this week after a tornado forced one of Merrill's largest employers to halt production for five weeks. Lincoln Windows, a window and patio manufacturer, was forced to shut one of three plants here after a tornado slammed into parts of Lincoln County on April10. Within the past week, the plant on Taylor Street resumed shipping orders out across the U.S.

http://www. stevenspointjournal.com/article/20 11 0519/CWS03/305190072/Entrepreneurial-train i ngoffered?odyssey-tab% 7Ctopnews% 7Cimg% 7CSP J-Business

22

Entrepreneurial training offered STEVENS POINT-- The Small Business Development Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevnes Point will offer an entrepreneurial training program starting June 7, the university announced Wednesday. A free introductory session is set for 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. June 7 at the Wisconsin Learning Center in the Portage County Business Park in Stevens Point, according to a news release. The six-week program, which will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 21 to July 28, will focus on assisting entrepreneurs in preparing a solid business plan.

http://www. postcrescent.com/article/2011 0517/APC03/1 05170430/Job-fair-military-veteranstoday?odyssey-mod% 7Cnewswell% 7Ctext% 7CAPC-Business% 7Cs

Job fair for military veterans today APPLETON- The state Department of Workforce Development- Office of Veterans Services will present a job fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Army National Guard Armory, 2801 W. Second St. The program is geared toward veterans

http:/ /www.dol.gov/opalmedialpress/etalui/eta20 11 0721.htm

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS REPORT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA In the week ending May 14, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 409,000, a decrease of 29,000 from the previous week's revised figure of 438,000. The 4-week moving average was 439,000, an increase of 1,250 from the previous week's revised average of 437,750.

http://www.reuters.com/article/20 11/05/19/us-usa-economy-idUSTRE7 492P72011 0519

Jobless claims fall more than expected

(Reuters) -The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits fell more than expected last week, offering hope the labor market recovery remains on track. Initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell 29,000 to a seasonally adjusted 409,000, the Labor Department said on Thursday, continuing to unwind the prior weeks' spike.

http://www.jsonline.com/business/122201984 html

ManpowerGroup survey: Talent is getting harder to find By Stephanie Beecher of the Journal Sentinel May 19, 2011 j(12) Comments

Employers say a talent shortage has saddled their efforts to fill jobs, according to a survey by ManpowerGroup. More than 50% of U.S. employers reported having difficulty filling "mission-critical" positions within their companies, up from 14% in 2010. Among the hardest positions to fill included jobs in skilled trades, sales and engineering.

23

i

!


From: Sent:

White House Press Office <[email protected]> Thursday, May 19, 201111:15 AM

To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Subject: Fw: WH Pool #1, 5/19/11

----- Original Message -----From: Thomas Brune <[email protected]> To: Finkenbinder, Benjamin N. Sent: Thu May 19 12:04:01 2011 Subject: WH Pool #1, 5/19/11

Obama heads to State for speech

The president emerged from Oval Office with what looked like speech in hand at 11:58 a.m. For speech billed to start at 11:40 a.m. Uneventful quick spin of the motorcade in a light mist under grey skies to Foggy Bottom. No protesters seen outside State.

Tom Brune Washington Bureau Newsday 1090 Vermont Ave., Ste. 1000

DC 20005

The information transmitted in this email and any of its attachments is intended only for the person or eDtity to which it is addressed and may contain information concerning Cablevision and/or its affiliates and subsidiaries that is proprietary, privileged, confidential and/or subject to copyright. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient(s) is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you received this in error, please contact the sender immediately and delete and destroy the communication and all of the attachments you have received and all copies thereof.

Unsubscribe

The White House· 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW ·Washington DC 20500 · 202-456-1111

20


From: Sent:

White House Press Office < [email protected]> Thursday, May 19, 201112:18 PM


----- Original Message -----From: Thomas Brune <[email protected]> To: Finkenbinder, Benjamin N. Sent: Thu May 19 13:06:36 2011 Subject: WH Pool #2, 5/19/11

Obama Speaks on 'New Spring' in the Middle East region

in a bid to put his stamp on past six months of developments, the president delivered a 45-minute address to about 200 people 1 mostly foreign service and AID officers, in the ornate Ben Franklin Dining Room on State's 8th floor and broadcast worldwide.

You have the prepared remarks.

Obama's speech drew applause a few times - including for his condemnation of government violence against protesters and for his support for women's rights in the region.

Obama closed by outlining principles for Israeli-Palestinian talks. The audience gave him ovations at his introduction and after the speech.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton introduced Obarna after she welcomed the audience of State career officers, Sen John Kerry (0-Mass.), and top administration officials Including Adm. Mullens and NSC direct Tom Donilon among others.

She said Obama had charged State to lead in "bold new ways," and to demonstrate the "indispensable role 11 of the United States in the world and Middle East region.

Off script, Obama joked about Clinton approaching a new milestone - of a million frequent flyer miles.

The speech began at 12:15 p.m. Obama work a black suit, white shi_rt and grey tie. He stood at a dais in front of eight American flags. Speech ended at 1 p.m.

Pool ushered out to vans into bright sunlight.

Tom Brune Washington Bureau News day 1090 1000

The information transmitted in this email and any of its attachments is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information concerning Cablevision and/or its affiliates and subsidiaries that is proprietary, privileged, confidential and/or subject to copyright. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient(s) is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you

18

received this in error, please contact the sender immediately and delete and destroy the communication and all of the attachments you have received and all copies thereof.

Unsubscribe


19



White House Press Office <[email protected]> Thursday, May 19, 201112:19 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV FW: WH Pool #3, 5/19/11

-----Original Message-----From: Thomas Brune [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, May 19, 2011 1:12 PM To: Finkenbinder, Benjamin N. Subject: WH Pool #3, 5/19/11

Obarna returns to White House

Quick uneventful five minute trip from State to WH. Arrived 1:13 p.m.

Tom Brune Washington Bureau Newsday 1090 Vermont 1000

The information transmitted in this email and any of its attachments is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information concerning Cablevision and/or its affiliates and subsidiaries that is proprietary, privileged, confidential and/or subject to copyright. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient(s) is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you received this in error, please contact the sender immediately and delete and destroy the communication and all of the attachments you have received and all copies thereof.

Unsubscribe


17


From: Sent:

White House Press Office <[email protected]> Thursday, May 19, 2011 6:32 PM


----- Original Message -----From: Thomas Brune <[email protected]> To: Finkenbinder 1 Benjamin N. Sent: Thu May 19 19:25:43 2011 Subject: WH Pool H, 5/19/11

Obama make·s first of two DNC fundraising stops tonight at Women's Leadership Forum

Obama dropped by the Grand Hyatt at 11th St. And H St. NW and gave a 10 minute or so address what a DNC official said was about 550 people, though it looked more like 250 to 300 to pooler.

Obama played to the crowd, ticking off all his administration has done for women -appointed two more women Supreme Court 1 launched Race to Top which brought women into science and math, passed health care reform with free mammograms and ban on higher charges for women. Etc. "Women hold fewer of 20 percent of seats in Congress, which explains something, he said to laughter.

Obama's line that drew biggest cheer and applause: "I'm not willing to defunct Planned Parenthood."

Crowd stood at front of ballroom, flashing photos with phones and digital cameras.

"We are not close to being finished," he said invoking his speech in October 2008 in Chicago's Grant Park.

"We've made enormous strides over past two years. That should not make us complacent. It should give us confidence in next 5 and a half years. I promise I'll be with you every step of the way."

Obama was following in footsteps of his wife Michelle - who spoke to before the same group this afternoon.

Both this and the next event - a dinner for 40 at a private home - charged $250 to the legal maximum limit of $35,800, the DNC official said on background.

Also attending the event were former Secy of State Madeleine Albright, DNC Chair and Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and NY Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.

In introducing Obama, Wasserman Schultz touted Obama's first term- job growth, completing combat operations in Iraq, ending DADT.

Obama in turn hugged and kissed WS and touted her DNC chairmanship.

"I was a little confused when I came here to address the Women's Leadership Forum because I just left the women's leadership forum at dinner,L he said kissing his wife, daughters, mother in law. "Its just me and Bo. Couldn't get a word in edgewise."

The Women's Leadership Forum is a group founded in 1993 for women and activists in the Democratic Party, DNC said.

15

Left WHat 6:38 p.m. And arrived at hotel at minutes later. Rushed out after talk headed at 7:20 pm to next event arrived 7:25pm. Holding in van.

Tom Brune Washington Bureau News day 1090 1000

The information transmitted in this email and any of its attachments is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information concerning Cablevision and/or its affiliates and subsidiaries that is proprietary, privileged, confidential and/or subject to copyright. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient(s) is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you received this in error, please contact the sender immediately and delete and destroy the communication and all of the attachments you have received and all copies thereof.

Unsubscribe


16



Goetzman, Michael - DOT Friday, May 20, 2011 8:02 AM DOT DL EXEC Reader Review In today's Reader Review

Editorial: Why an interstate?

http://www. jsonline. comlnewslopi n ionl122260429. htm I

With the state budget in such dire financial straits, why do Gov. Scott Walker and U.S. Rep. Tom Petri want to spend at least $15 million to $20 million to turn Highway 41 into an interstate? Those dollars could be better spent on local road maintenance or transit systems, both of which are taking big hits in Walker's budget.

The new interstate from Milwaukee to Green Bay would be the first one in Wisconsin since 1996, when Highway 51 between Portage and Wausau was converted to 1-39.

The intention behind the interstate designation is good.

"It adds to the economic desirability of the area," said Petri, who represents much of the area along the highway and who in 2005 inserted language in a transportation bill designating the stretch an interstate once federal requirements were met. He said chambers of commerce could use the interstate designation to market the region, and it could help property values rise.

Great, but not now. With the state planning to spend big bucks on the Zoo Interchange, the 1-94 corridor from Milwaukee to the Illinois border and other projects, state taxpayers have enough new construction on their hands. What will suffer will be local road maintenance and transit funding, which are just as important to the state's transportation needs as new roads, state Rep. Robin Vas' views notwithstanding.

It's not as though Highway 41 is in dire need of improvement. It's estimated that getting the road Up to minimal interstate standards in the coming years would cost $15 million to $20 million. That involves widening shoulders and installing cable guardrails along some medians. Some critics say the cost could go higher.

The improvements would make the highway marginally safer and provide an enhanced marketing tool. But that does not outweigh the state's financial needs or the needs of transit and local roads. This is one project that can be put off for a few more years.

Should Highway 41 be turned into an interstate? To be considered for publication as a letter to the editor, e-mail your opinion to the Journal Sentinel editorial department.

Senate passes photo ID; some Democrats refuse to vote

http://www. jsonline. comlnewslstatepoliticsl122231394. html Madison -Senate Republicans approved requiring people to show photo ID at the polls amid a cacophonous vote Thursday, with eight Democrats not even voting on the measure in protest and because of confusion over how the proceedings were conducted. Immediately after the 19-5 vote was tallied, the crowd in the viewing gallery thundered with chants of "Shame!" as senators exited the chamber. Later, they chanted "Recall!" and sang "We Shall Overcome." Republican Gov. Scott Walker plans to sign the bill Wednesday in a ceremony at the Capitol. "Requiring photo identification to vote will go a long way to eliminate the threat of voter fraud," Walker said in a statement. "If you need an ID to buy cold medicine, it's reasonable to require it to vote."

5

But Democrats decried the measure, saying it would do little to prevent voter fraud while disenfranchising thousands of minority, elderly and rural voters. "This is voter suppression," said Sen. Lena Taylor (D-Milwaukee). "This is voter disenfranchisement. This is voter confusion. This is voter restriction. This is a voter discouragement bill." The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Indiana's photo ID law in 2008, but opponents say Wisconsin's law could be vulnerable to a legal challenge because of differences between the states. Unlike voters in Indiana, people in Wisconsin casting absentee ballots would have to include a photocopy of their ID when they mail their ballots. Getting copies made will be an additional burden on elderly voters and others with limited mobility, critics said. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) said he was confident the photo ID requirement was constitutional. Before debate began at 10 a.m., Senate Republican leaders imposed a one-hour limit on discussion of the bill, frustrating Democrats who engaged in more than nine hours of debate on the bill Tuesday into Wednesday. It was just the third time in recent history that limits had been put on debate in the Senate. It last happened in 2003 on the state budget and 1995 on welfare reform, according to Senate officials. Republicans were in charge both times. Sen. Fred Risser (D-Madison), the longest-serving state legislator in the country, began speaking a few minutes before the vote was called. Risser refused to stop talking when Senate President Mike Ellis (R-Neenah) called the vote, saying he deserved to have his say since he'd been recognized. "In my 50 years, I've never had anyone cut me off!" Risser said, before calmly resuming his criticism of the vote. In the pandemonium, all19 Republicans voted for the bill, five Democrats voted against it and eight Democrats did not vote at all. Senate leaders said the eight Democrats would be allowed to record their votes when they next meet in June. The Assembly passed the bill 60-35 last week, with two Democrats joining all Republicans. Wait ends Republicans have sought the requirement for nearly a decade, but have been stymied by Democrats. From 2003 to 2005, then-Gov. Jim Doyle vetoed the measure three times. Since then, Democrats in the Legislature have prevented the change from advancing to the governor's desk. Now, Republicans control both houses of the Legislature and the governor's office. The measure could prevent people from voting in another's name, but not the most commonly prosecuted form of voter fraud -felons voting while on state supervision. The state Department of Justice and Milwaukee County district attorney's office have prosecuted 20 cases of voter fraud from the November 2008 election. None involves people voting in someone else's name at the polls. Similarly, after the 2004 election, then-U.S. Attorney Steven Biskupic found no evidence of widespread voter fraud. A Milwaukee Police Department report during the same election cycle recommended that photo ID be required to vote. The unsigned report was released in 2008 without the approval of police commanders, and Police Chief Edward Flynn did not endorse its policy recommendations. Republicans said requiring photo ID at the polls would instill public confidence in elections. "I think the vast majority of our citizens want to make sure their vote is legal and all votes are legal because one fraudulent vote cancels out a legal vote," said Sen. Frank Lasee (R-De Pere). Under the bill passed Thursday, people would be allowed to vote only after showing Wisconsin driver's licenses, stateissued ID cards, certain student IDs, military IDs, passports, naturalization certificates or IDs issued by a tribe based in Wisconsin. Those living in retirement homes, nursing homes and institutions would be exempt from the law, as would victims of stalking and those who opposed having their photos taken for religious reasons. A voter who did not show a photo ID would be allowed to cast a provisional ballot that would be counted if the voter showed photo I D to an election clerk by the Friday after the election. Implementing the bill would cost more than $7 million over the next two years, according to the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau. Voters also would be required to sign poll books when they vote, which supporters say would make it easier to prove cases of voter fraud. The bill also ends straight-party voting for everyone but military and overseas voters. In another change, people could vote from their polling place only if they had lived in that voting ward for at least 28 days before an election. Now, voters have to live in their wards for 10 days before an election. People would be able to vote by absentee ballot in clerks' offices for the two weeks before an election, down from the current 30 days before an election. Other states Eight states ask voters for photo ID, and Kansas and South Carolina have approved photo ID laws that are yet to go into effect. Another 18 states require voters to show an ID, but not necessarily one with a photo. That number will rise to 19 in July, when Oklahoma's law takes effect. The Wisconsin photo ID requirements would go into effect in 2012. Recall elections are expected before then for nine state senators. For those elections, voters will be asked to show photo ID; if they don't have it, they will be told they can vote but that the law will be changing soon. The eight Democrats who did not vote on the bill were: Risser, Taylor, Spencer Coggs of Milwaukee, Tim Cullen of Janesville, Bob Jauch of Poplar, Chris Larson of Milwaukee, Mark Miller of Monona and Kathleen Vinehout of Alma.

6

Wisconsin Senate passes voter 10, sends bill to Gov. Scott Walker All Gannett papers: http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/2011 0519/GPG01 01/11 0519056/Wisconsin-Senatepasses-voter-ID?odyssey-tabltopnewslimgiFRONTPAGE http://www.leadertelegram.com/news/breaking news/article 57cc7ad8-8233-11e0-99c6-001cc4c002eO.html MADISON- The state Senate gave final legislative approval Thursday to a bill that would require Wisconsin voters to show photo identification at the polls, setting the plan up for Gov. Scott Walker's signature. Assembly Republicans passed the measure in a late-night session last week. Republicans who control the Senate brought the bill up for debate on Tuesday. Democrats railed against it into the early morning hours on Wednesday, finally using a procedural maneuver to delay the final vote until Thursday.

Republicans limited debate to an hour when senators came to the floor. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, RJuneau, told Democrats they were given plenty of time talk about the bill. Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, accused Republicans of acting like dictators.

""Madison looks more like Moscow today," Jauch said. "This is a Republican majority that has gone berserk with power."

Sen. Fred Risser, 0-Madison, was speaking when the hour ended. Confusion ensued as Sen. Jon Erpenbach, 0-Middleton, interrupted Risser to ask to adjourn and Senate President Mike Ellis, R-Neenah, began a roll call. Republicans started recording their votes as Risser shouted at Ellis that no one had ever cut him off in his 55 years in the Legislature.

Ellis announced the bill had passed 19-5 and adjourned before nine Democrats voted. Protesters packed into the Senate's overhead gallery erupted into shouts of "Shame!" and "Recall!"

Republicans have been pushing the photo ID bill for years. They contend it's needed to curtail voter fraud. Democrats maintain widespread fraud doesn't exist in Wisconsin and Republicans just want to disenfranchise Democrat constituencies such as senior citizens, college students and the poor.

Only 20 voter fraud cases have been prosecuted by the state Department of Justice and Milwaukee County district attorney's office stemming from the November 2008 presidential election. None of those prosecuted involved people voting using someone else's name at the polls.

Then-Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat, vetoed similar GOP photo ID proposals three times between 2002 and 2005. But now Republicans control both houses of the Legislature and the governor's office, making passage inevitable. Walker said he will sign the bill on Wednesday.

"Requiring photo identification to vote will go a long way to eliminate the threat of voter fraud," the governor said in a statement. "If you need an ID to buy cold medicine, it's reasonable to require it to vote."

Sen. Frank Lasee, R-Oe Pere, was the only Republican who addressed the bill on the floor. He told Democrats that people need an ID to do almost everything, from driving a car to buying beer. Most people want to make sure their elections are fair, he said.

"If you plan your life, you can get (an I D). And most people already have one," he said. "One fraudulent vote cancels out a legal vote."

Under the bill, voters would have to present a driver's license, a state ID, a passport, a military 10, naturalization papers or a tribal I D. College students could vote with a schooiiD as long as it has their signature and an expiration date that falls within two years of the card's issuance. University of Wisconsin IDs currently don't meet that criteria and would have to be updated to comply before students could vote.

Nursing or retirement home residents as well as stalking victims and anyone who objects to having his or her photograph taken on religious grounds would be exempt. Voters who forget to bring an 10 to the polls would be allowed to cast a provisional ballot, but would have to show their ID to the local election clerk by the Friday after the election to have the ballot count.

Voters would be asked for ID in elections starting this year but will be allowed to vote without one. Beginning next year, they will not be allowed to cast a ballot without one.

A number of other changes would take effect immediately, including requiring voters to sign poll books and to live at their

7

current address for 28 days rather than 10 before they could cast a ballot.

Those changes would come into play during possible Senate recall elections later this year. Groups have targeted six Republican and three Democratic senators for recall over their stances on Walker's collective bargaining law, which strips public workers of nearly all their union rights.

One estimate put the ID bill's cost at more than $7 million.

"In the end, what we're doing here is very clear. Republicans want to wreck the Democratic Party," Erpenbach said. "This bill is indefensible."

Fitzgerald and the bill's chief Senate sponsor, Joe Leibham, R-Sheboygan, tried to hold a news conference on the bill after the vote, but left after the protesters challenged them on the bill's constitutionality.

Legislature passes voter ID bill; Walker to sign it Wednesday http://host. madison. com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/article ceaa2760-822c-11 e0-887b-OO 1 cc4c03286. htm I Amid chants of "Shame!" and "Recall!" from the gallery, the state Senate on Thursday gave final approval to a controversial bill requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls. The measure now heads to Gov. Scott Walker, who said he plans to sign it next Wednesday. "Requiring photo identification to vote will go a long way to eliminate the threat of voter fraud," Walker said. "If you need an ID to buy cold medicine, it's reasonable to require it to vote." Republicans in the state Assembly passed the bill in a late-night session last week. Debate in the GOP-controlled Senate began Tuesday, running until after 1 a.m. Wednesday, when Democrats used a procedural move to delay final passage. On Thursday, Senate GOP leaders limited floor debate to one hour. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, defended the time limit saying the topic "has received a lot of debate," and Democrats had had plenty of chances to speak on the floor. When the call for a vote was made, Sen. Fred Risser, D-Madison, was speaking and tried to continue. "In my 50 years, I've never had anyone cut me off!" yelled Risser, the nation's longest-serving state lawmaker. Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, moved to adjourn. Senate President Mike Ellis, R-Neenah, repeatedly banged his gavel and began the roll call over the protests of Democrats. The bill passed 19-5 along party lines, with many Democrats refusing to vote. Some later said the GOP would not add their votes following the chaos. The legislation, which proponents say will prevent people from voting illegally, would give Wisconsin arguably the most restrictive voter identification law in the country. According to the Legislative Fiscal Bureau, it could cost more than $5.7 million to implement. Under the bill, a voter would have to present a driver's license, a state ID, a passport, a military ID, naturalization papers or a tribal I D. College students could vote with a schooiiD as long as it has their signature and an expiration date within two years of the card's issuance. University of Wisconsin IDs currently do not meet that criteria and would have to be updated to comply before students could use them to vote. Nursing or retirement home residents, stalking victims and anyone who objects to having his or her photograph taken for religious reasons would be exempt. Anyone who forgets to bring an ID to the polls would be allowed to cast a provisional ballot, but would have to show an ID to the local election clerk by the Friday after the election to have the ballot count. People would be asked for ID in elections this year but will be allowed to vote without one. Starting next year, they will not be allowed to cast a ballot without one. Other changes would take effect immediately, including requiring voters to sign poll books and to live at their current address for 28 days rather than 10 days before they could cast a ballot. Sen. Frank Lasee, R-DePere, defended the legislation on the Senate floor, saying people need photo IDs for a number of other things, such as buying liquor or cigarettes. Few cases of fraud Critics said the bill is an attempt to suppress the votes of students, seniors and minorities and seeks to fix a problem that isn't there. Only 20 cases of voter fraud have been prosecuted by the state Department of Justice and Milwaukee County district attorney's office linked to the November 2008 presidential election. None of those involved people voting using someone else's name at the polls. The Legislative Fiscal Bureau said about 20 percent of Wisconsin residents do not have the type of identification required under the bill. A 2005 UW-Milwaukee study found that as many as 55 percent of black men and 46 percent of Latino men did not have a state driver's license. It's not known what percentage of those groups have other acceptable forms of photo I D. "This is a shameful day," Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, said. "It is the day that democracy died."

8

Fitzgerald and other GOP senators tried to hold a news conference after the vote, but left after protesters began to question them about the bill. Protesters then took the podium and spoke until Democrats arrived to talk to reporters. Soon after the vote, opponents hinted that lawsuits would be filed over it. "Ultimately, this will cost Wisconsin not only our fair and clean elections, but also millions of additional tax dollars when a court rules against them for damages for denying legal voters the right to vote," said Scot Ross of One Wisconsin Now.

Senate passes voter ID bill, sends to Walker http://www.gmtoday.com/news/front/topstory01.asp MADISON -The state Senate gave final legislative approval to a bill that would require Wisconsin voters to show photo identification during a ragged session Thursday, clearing the way for Gov. Scott Walker to sign the measure into law next week. Assembly Republicans passed the measure in a late-night session last week. Republicans who control the Senate brought the bill up for debate on Tuesday. Democrats railed against it into the early morning hours on Wednesday, finally using a procedural maneuver to delay the final vote until Thursday. Republicans limited debate to an hour when senators came to the floor. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, RJuneau, told Democrats they were given plenty of time talk about the bill. Sen. Bob Jauch, D-Poplar, accused Republicans of acting like dictators. ""Madison looks more like Moscow today," Jauch said. "This is a Republican majority that has gone berserk with power." Sen. Fred Risser, D-Madison, was speaking when the hour ended. Confusion ensued as Sen. Jon Erpenbach, DMiddleton, interrupted Risser to ask to adjourn and Senate President Mike Ellis, R-Neenah, began a roll call. Republicans started recording their votes as Risser shouted at Ellis that no one had ever cut him off in his 55 years in the Legislature. Ellis announced the bill had passed 19-5 and adjourned before nine Democrats voted. Protesters packed into the Senate's overhead gallery erupted into shouts of "Shame!" and "Recall!" Republicans have been pushing the photo ID bill for years. They contend it's needed to curtail voter fraud. Democrats maintain widespread fraud doesn't exist in Wisconsin and Republicans just want to disenfranchise Democrat constituencies such as senior citizens, college students and the poor. Only 20 voter fraud cases have been prosecuted by the state Department of Justice and Milwaukee County district attorney's office stemming from the November 2008 presidential election. None of those prosecuted involved people voting using someone else's name at the polls. Then-Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat, vetoed similar GOP photo ID proposals three times between 2002 and 2005. But now Republicans control both houses of the Legislature and the governor's office, making passage inevitable. Walker said he will sign the bill on Wednesday. "Requiring photo identification to vote will go a long way to eliminate the threat of voter fraud," the governor said in a statement. "If you need an ID to buy cold medicine, it's reasonable to require it to vote." Sen. Frank Lasee, R-Oe Pere, was the only Republican who addressed the bill on the floor. He told Democrats that people need an ID to do almost everything, from driving a car to buying beer. Most people want to make sure their elections are fair, he said. "If you plan your life, you can get (an I D). And most people already have one," he said. "One fraudulent vote cancels out a legal vote." Under the bill, voters would have to present a driver's license, a state ID, a passport, a military ID, naturalization papers or a tribal I D. College students could vote with a schooiiD as long as it has their signature and an expiration date that falls within two years of the card's issuance. University of Wisconsin IDs currently don't meet that criteria and would have to be updated to comply before students could vote. Nursing or retirement home residents as well as stalking victims and anyone who objects to having his or her photograph taken on religious grounds would be exempt. Voters who forget to bring an ID to the polls would be allowed to cast a provisional ballot, but would have to show their I D to the local election clerk by the Friday after the election to have the ballot count. Voters would be asked for ID in elections starting this year but will be allowed to vote without one. Beginning next year, they will not be allowed to cast a ballot without one. A number of other changes would take effect immediately, including requiring voters to sign poll books and to live at their current address for 28 days rather than 10 before they could cast a ballot. Those changes would come into play during possible Senate recall elections later this year. Groups have targeted six Republican and three Democratic senators for recall over their stances on Walker's collective bargaining law, which strips public workers of nearly all their union rights. One estimate put the ID bill's cost at more than $7 million. "In the end, what we're doing here is very clear. Republicans want to wreck the Democratic Party," Erpenbach said. "This bill is indefensible." Fitzgerald and the bill's chief Senate sponsor, Joe Leibham, R-Sheboygan, tried to hold a news conference on the bill after the vote, but left after the protesters challenged them on the bill's constitutionality.

9

Letters: DRUNKEN DRIVING: A better solution: Take away the car http://www.jsonline.com/news/opinion/122260434.html After reading the editorial and the proposals from Rep. Jim Ott (R-Mequon) and Sen. Alberta Darling (R-River Hills), I feel I'm left with a Hobson's choice (Crossroads, May 15). Why don't we think outside the box here? I don't want myself or my loved ones driving on roads with impaired drivers, nor do I want to add to the $279 million in prison costs that we taxpayers dish out. Why can't we seize their autos after a second violation? You see folks with six, seven and even eight OWls, and you know that they are probably driving without a license. If they don't have a car, they can't drive drunk. If the car belongs to a spouse or a friend, too bad; they shouldn't have lent their car. Soon, the word will get out. The cars can be sold at auction with the proceeds going toward reducing prison costs. Safer roads and lower taxes all wrapped in one. Michael Loew Milwaukee

Students steer local hang-up-and-drive campaign http://www.riverfallsjournal.com/event/articlelid/98693/ Morgan Richie, a 10th grader at River Falls High School, visited the April26 City Council meeting to announce that she and other students started a hang-up-and-drive campaign they plan to carry throughout the community, for example at events like Art on the Kinni. "A couple of us decided to head up the effort," Richie said Monday about a group of four student organizers. The foursome took the possibility of a campaign to its 57-member club-- Students Offering Support (S.O.S.)-- and it agreed the campaign is a good idea. Richie, along with classmates Micha Bennett, Sam ldrissi, Taylor Kittleson, and other S.O.S. members, organized a threeday "sign-the-pledge" event at the high school. It kicked off with Angie Brenna, a 2002 RFHS graduate, as keynote speaker. The young woman captured the audience's attention as she told of a bad wreck that had left her paralyzed and in a wheelchair. The students say the accident happened as she reached for a ringing cell phone. Kittleson said, "People could really relate to her." Bennett agreed, "I think it was really impactful." After the assembly and for two days afterward, the S.O.S. students campaigned in the high school commons for people to sign a hang-up-and-drive pledge form. It encourages a person to "drive now, talk/txt LBR." They captured kids' attention by inviting kids to play a game: Mario Kart on a Wii system. They challenged young drivers to try and play while texting and say most were surprised how hard it is to do both. The S.O.S. group handed out window clings and informational flyers designed to help drivers understand the dangers of distracted driving. The students clarify that the campaign doesn't stop at the high school since distracted driving is a problem among motorists of all ages. Kittleson said, "It's not just the teenagers." Richie says it scares her to be in the car with someone who texts or talks while driving. She said it not only endangers the lives of people in that driver's car but also around that driver's car. Bennett says kids and adults hear a lot about the dangers of drinking and driving and understand those fairly well, but, "People don't see that (distracted driving) as much of a problem." Campaign evolves The students explain that they have been discussing and planning the event since about February and that it results from collaboration among many. Pam Brokaw, interim coordinator and on the advisory board of the St. Croix Valley Youth Court, contacted the local S.O.S. club via teacher Deb Ottman. She wondered if they could help disseminate the message of a western Wisconsin no-distracted-driving campaign. SCVYC received national recognition for taking on a similar project after it learned of a pledge offered through Twin Cities TV station KARE 11 and its Great Hang Up program. Insurance agents in River Falls and Hudson provided flyers; local police chiefs support the campaign; and several local businesses donated raffle prizes as incentive for pledge signers. ldrissi said people have many types of technology to distract them, but society must learn to evolve safely with it.

10

Bennett points out that the first cars didn't even have seat belts, but people eventually chose to travel more safely. The students say reaction to the campaign and pledge-signing efforts seemed favorable, especially right after Brenna's presentation. However, Richie said a lot of drivers don't believe it could happen to them, and ldrissi said some people told him they wouldn't or didn't need to sign the pledge. Youth court in session SCVYC is a Hudson-based non-profit organization serving Pierce and St. Croix counties. Richie said she joined it a few months ago. Brokaw said the teen court started in 2005 and is comprised of volunteers from five area school districts. It operates according to the Restorative Justice principles of realization, responsibility, repair. Teens fill the roles of court advocates representing the victim and offender, as well as the jury. An adult moderator helps clarify requirements. Brokaw mentions that River Falls-based attorney Max Neuhaus serves on the SCVYC advisory board and helps the group many ways. The teen court hears the cases of first-time offenders ages 13-16 then recommends sanctions, which Brokaw says include serving on a future teen-court jury. Volunteers for teen court must be "reliable and trustworthy" people ages 12-17. Get more information about the youth court at its website: www.scwc.org

Sturgeon Bay: Michigan Street Bridge paint job runs over http://www.qreenbaypressgazette.com/article/2011 0518/ADV01/1 05180512/Sturqeon-Bay-Michigan-Street-Bridge-paintjob-runs-over?odyssey-tabltopnewsltextiADV The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) northeast region at Green Bay announced Tuesday that painting of the Michigan Street Bridge in Sturgeon Bay will continue through June. WisDOT originally planned to open the bridge by Memorial Day. Officials expected either to complete the job by that time or suspend the work for the summer tourism season, then resume in the fall. "The department would like to thank the city of Sturgeon Bay in working with us to modify the schedule, saving additional time and money by continuing the work now, rather than stopping it in a few weeks and starting again in the fall," WisDOT northeast director Will Dorsey said in a news release. This spring's unusually low temperatures, high winds and rain contributed to WisDOT losing nearly a month's worth of work, in spite of extended work hours, Dorsey said. The department is now committed to complete the painting by noon June 30, or suspend painting and remove their equipment in time to open the bridge to traffic July 1. If painting is suspended, it will resume in the fall after Labor Day. The nearly $21 million rehabilitation project began in July 2009. In addition to the painting, work on the 1 ,390-foot-long bridge includes structural rehabilitation of the fixed and movable steel through truss spans; replacement of the machinery, controls, electrical system, lighting and fender system. This work is complete. The painting includes removal, collection and containment of existing paint material and priming/recoating with a lead-free paint system.

Column: Improbable driver's license streak ends http://www.qreenbaypressgazette.com/article/2011 0518/ADV06/1 05180486/Column-lmprobable-driver-s-license-streakends?odyssey-mod[newswellltextiADVIp My birthday rolled around last week, and with it came notice that my driver's license would expire on that date. Actually, the notice came a few weeks ago, but I held off until the last possible moment to renew because ... well, because I liked my old one a lot. I rocked that license headshot: I had the perfect haircut that laid just the right way. Truthfully, when it comes to hair, I'm fairly low-maintenance, but that doesn't mean I don't care. My skin was clear-complexioned, and I smiled in a way that made my face appear symmetrical. For eight years, I perked up whenever grocery store clerks asked to see my ID when I bought wine, which I sometimes do, just for an excuse to show somebody my driver's license. This wasn't my first awesome license. Here's a brief history: I've had fabulous headshots for every license I've ever had . . Interestingly, only once have I needed the license to prove my aptitude for driving. That was during my Cross-City Crime Spree of '07. You probably remember that epic brouhaha when I committed several rolling stops- probably every stop sign from Point A to Point B- through town on the way to Taco Bell. In my desperation to eat a crunchy taco supreme, I didn't notice the police car behind me the entire way. . Although I got a warning on my otherwise unblemished record, it was worth it if only to have opportunity to show off my fabulous license photo. Come to think of it, the officer never mentioned it.

11

Nevertheless, I learned my lesson. Nowadays, I stop at every stop sign, much to the consternation of drivers behind me who want to live dangerously by rolling through stops themselves. Anyhow, I have had a lifetime of great diver's licenses. You get the idea. In preparation for this new license, I carefully cared for my skin so it wouldn't break out. My face has a terrible sense of humor- it often sports teenager-style acne at the most inopportune moments. As my birthday came closer, a pimple appeared on my forehead. Well, time was slipping by, and the old license was set to expire. I had to make a move, zits or no zits. I had gone swimming at theY before my date at the Division of Motor Vehicles. And then, because it was nice outside, I took a walk. I hadn't really thought about how the wind would style my hair in its own haphazard way. It dried sticking straight up, Spanky style, and no amount of spit would flatten it down. "OK, I'll just look sporty," I thought, expecting good luck would reign. After completing the required steps (paying my fee, answering a few questions and passing a quick eye test- in order of importance, I'm sure), I was ushered to the camera. This made me more than a little nervous- the ID photo bar had been set pretty high. Heck, I haven't even expounded on my last passport picture, which was also unbelievably cool. It's not that I'm vain, but clearly it's a long history. The DMV lady told me to gaze upon a cartoon character on the camera device. I glanced at it. And in that moment, the flash went off. A moment later, she handed me the fresh license. "#$%&*$.11 It wasn't a license; it was a wasted-Hollywood-star mug shot. I thought I'd get a countdown. Hey, I'm a photographer and I know: You have to give people a countdown. A moment to prepare: "I'll shoot on three. One, two, three!" The other lady at the DMV gave her patron a countdown. Mine didn't. So, that's my new license until2019. Hair sticking up. My expression is a look of puzzlement, staring uncomprehendingly at a Garfield sticker that wasn't very funny. I'm obviously older looking. Definitely not symmetrical. "Welcome to our world," said a friend, pointing out that most people have crappy license photos. But that wasn't my world. It's possible this license might be lost to flood, fire or accidental shredding. And should that happen, a new one might need to be created. I've learned my lesson again. In such a scenario, I plan to stay indoors before the photo shoot and carry hair gel. And I'll definitely wait for a DMV employee who counts down.

Guest column: MV Transportation rushed in start up http://www. green baypressgazette. com/article/20 11 0520/G PG0706/1 05200596/1269/GPG06/Guest-col umn-MVTransportation-rushed-start-up Effective May 1, Green Bay Metro changed contractors for its paratransit operation, which serves disabled residents who are unable to use the fixed route bus. In a May 10 front-page article, the Green Bay Press-Gazette reported complaints from riders with the new contractor, MV Transportation. I feel it is important to provide residents of Green Bay with additional information not included in the article. The contract to MV was awarded by the City Transit Commission on April 6 based on a thorough evaluation of proposals. A notice to proceed was executed on April13with a planned start date of May 1. Normally, four to six weeks is provided for a startup of this size. This allows a new contractor time to get its: vehicles in service; drivers, dispatchers and maintenance personnel hired and trained; facility readied and operating; telephone system installed and tested; and computer systems up and working. Since the former contractor, Medi-Vans, was unwilling to continue operating for a one to two week period beyond May 1, it was necessary for MV to begin operation with less than three weeks notice. As pointed out in the article, the first day of service, May 2, was very challenging. Many passengers who called to confirm, schedule or cancel transportation were unable to get through, due to the volume of calls. The telephone system and the number of persons taking calls were insufficient to handle the unexpected call volume. For a number of reasons, MV was unable to hire many of the experienced drivers. This has resulted in a large and unexpected number of new drivers who will need some time to become more familiar with the service and the needs of individual passengers. While a significant number of trips were late, 74 percent of all trips were on time during the first week of service. Since that time we have seen steady improvement each day. Through Wednesday of this week, more than 90 percent of trips were picked up on time. We are aware of people who have experienced problems with the service. Problems with the telephone system have been fixed. Inaccurate information provided by the former contractor, such as wrong addresses and whether a passenger is in a wheelchair, is being updated. Please be assured that Green Bay Metro and MV are working to resolve these and other problems as quickly as possible. Jim Andrew is interim general manager for Green Bay Metro/Paratransit.

12

Police 'Click It or Ticket' campaign to begin Monday http://www. htrnews.com/article/2011 0520/MAN01 01/1 05200647/Police-Ciick-Ticket-campaign-beginMonday?odyssey=tabltopnewslimqiFRONTPAGE MANITOWOC- Buckle your seatbelts. If you don't, the Manitowoc Police Department will be looking for you. According to a department news release: The police will participate in the national "Click It or Ticket" campaign, designed to encourage the use of safety belts while driving, Monday through June 5. As part of the campaign, the department will have extra officers on patrol to enforce all traffic laws, with special emphasis on safety belt compliance. This extra enforcement is being paid for with funds from the $25,000 speed grant and a $30,000 alcohol enforcement grant the department received from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Bureau of Transportation Safety last October. "Our goal is to gain a higher rate of safety belt compliance- not just during this enforcement period, but throughout the year as well, because the bottom line is safety belt usage saves lives," said Capt. Larry Zimney. According to statistics compiled by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation: » Safety belt use in Wisconsin is behind the national average and neighboring states. Although safety belt use in Wisconsin has reached an all-time high in 2010 with 79 percent of drivers and passengers buckling up, it still lags behind the 84 percent national average for safety belt use. Wisconsin is also behind neighboring states including Michigan and Illinois, which have safety belt use rates of more than 90 percent. » Safety belts are an effective and simple way to save lives. Consistent safety belt use is the single most effective way to protect people from being ejected from a vehicle or being thrown around violently inside it during a crash. In Wisconsin, a 10 percent increase in safety belt use would save about 44 lives and prevent 650 injuries each year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Teen safety belt use is much lower than other age groups. This lack of safety belt use coupled with a lack of driving experience is a major reason why traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for young people nationwide. » Unbelted motorists in crashes cost everyone money. Drivers and passengers who are hurt or killed in traffic crashes because they didn't buckle up create tremendous economic losses, such as medical expenses and lost worker productivity. The rest of society pays for nearly 75 percent of these economic losses through higher insurance premiums, taxes and other public funding, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Each Wisconsin traffic fatality costs more than $1.3 million and each incapacitating injury nearly $70,000 based on National Safety Council estimates. In 2009, economic losses from traffic fatalities and injuries in Wisconsin cost nearly $2 billion, according to the 2009 Wisconsi.n Traffic Crash Facts.

DOT explores potential problems with Interstate 39 corridor http://www.stevenspointjournal. com/article/20 11 0520/S P JO 1 01/1 05200661/DOT -explores-potential-problems-1 nterstate-39-corridor?odyssey-tabltopnewsltextiFRONTPAGE The Interstate 39 corridor in the Stevens Point area already has a few minor traffic issues, mainly inadequate intersections, but in the coming decades, that number is expected to grow significantly. So the state Department of Transportation is asking the residents of the region what the main concerns are along the corridor, which stretches roughly from Highway 54 to U.S. Highway 10 West. About 40 people showed up at a meeting Thursday night in Stevens Point and voiced a wide array of issues they want the DOT and its consultants to consider as they draft plans to address the coming problems. Some were worried about the environmental impact on delicate areas, such as the Plover River. Others were concerned about increased noise. But many were focused primarily on safety and how changes could make interchanges and intersections easier to navigate. "Along Highway 10 West near Target, we call that area 'the gauntlet,"' said David Adamczak, "because you take your life into your own hands." Most of the interstate and its interchanges currently are operating below capacity, according to DOT studies, meaning there is little or no delay. But that is expected to change drastically by 2040. The general annual increase in traffic-- along with projections by Portage County, the city of Stevens Point and the village of Plover about where people will live, work and shop in the future-- indicates the current infrastructure won't be able to handle the traffic. The biggest problem areas will be the intersections and interchanges at Highway B, U.S. Highway 10 and Highway 66, along with traffic on 1-39 during peak traffic times, according to the DOT projections. "We expect there will be more delay," said Todd Polum, the project manager with SRF Consulting Group Inc., which is working with the DOT. "With more delay, people take more chances, which creates more crashes." At this early stage of the project, every option still is on the table, Polum said. That includes expanding 1-39 to three lanes each way, building new bridges, and altering interchanges to make entering and exiting the freeway easier.

13

The DOT will take the comments it received Thursday, along with any other input that it gathers in the coming months, and create a set of solutions to the projected traffic issues. It will bring that set back to the area later this year for more feedback, and then create an implementation plan that will lay out which areas need to be dealt with first, and how urgently. "What are the right projects to do, and what is the right sequence to do them in?" DOT project manager Jeff Stewart asked.

Progress toward protection http://host. madison.com/news/opinion/editorial/article 5ffaca12-822d-11 e0-a712-001 cc4c002e0.html The Legislature is halfway to protecting motorist money from misuse. Let's keep this long drive going to the finish line in 2013. Big, bipartisan majorities in the state Senate and Assembly this week endorsed Senate Joint Resolution 23, a constitutional guarantee that Wisconsin's transportation dollars will only be spent on transportation needs. No more raids on state revenue from gas taxes and license fees to cover unrelated expenses. Constitutional amendments in Wisconsin require approval from consecutive legislatures before voters can have the final say. That means the next legislature that takes office in 2013 will need to approve the same language again to trigger a statewide binding referendum. Voter approval would seem a slam dunk. Most Wisconsin counties have held advisory referendums on the question. And in every case, the proposal has passed. Former Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle raided about $1.2 billion from the state transportation fund (with lawmakers from both major political parties playing along). The raids helped Doyle and Co. patch and push into the future state budget shortfalls. The raids jeopardized highway safety while contributing to the chronic budget mess that dogged and distracted the Doyle administration for most of its eight years. Gov. Scott Walker has promised to end the raids. And so far, with his first state budget, he has followed through on that pledge. But a constitutional ban is still needed. State motorists deserve a guarantee that the user fees they shell out for roads, bridges and other transportation needs won't be diverted far into the future. Ideally, Senate Joint Resolution 23 would stop state leaders from raiding all segregated fees that are collected for any specific purpose. This includes user fees that ordinary people pay for activities such as hunting or visiting state parks. It also includes the fees doctors pay into a state fund for injured patients. For now, though, protecting the transportation fund would represent a significant achievement. One legislative session down. One to go. Then Wisconsin voters- a large majority of them motorists- can push this principled proposal to victory.

Michael J. Goetzman Office of Public Affairs Wisconsin Department of Transportation 4802 Sheboygan Avenue, Room 1038 P.O. Box 7910 Madison, WI 53707-7910 voice: 608/266-2520 fax: 608/266'7186 [email protected]

10

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Sent: To:

Subject:

DWD MB Communications Office Friday, May 20, 2011 9:02AM 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; File, Nicole L- DWD; Fosdick, Anna - DWD; Gerrits, Karen - DWD; Gottschall, ChuckDWD; 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, ScottDWD; 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; Perez, Manuel - 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 CustomScoop 5.20.11

http://www.jsonline.com/business/122240294.html

Private sector added 3,000 jobs in April; state jobless rate dips to 7.3% By John Schmid of the Journal Sentinel May 19, 2011 12:22 p.m. 1171) Comments

Private-sector employment in Wisconsin increased by 3,000 in April from the previous month, according to the seasonally adjusted estimates released Thursday by the state Department of Workforce Development. The figures continue a private-sector trend that began with 11,300 new net jobs in January; 3,000 in February; and 7,600 in March, the agency said.

Article also appeared: Wausau Daily Herald; Daily Journal; WLUK, Green Bay; WUWM, Milwaukee; WTAQ, Green Bay; Wisconsin Radio Network; Milwaukee Small Business Times; Green Bay Press Gazette; Appleton Post Crescent; WKOW, Madison; Biz Times, Milwaukee; WIFC-FM; WOZZ-FM; NewsoftheNorth.net; Milwaukee Business Journal; Wisconsin State Journal; Eau Claire Leader; WKBT-TV, La. Crosse; WEAU-TV; WIBA-FM; WAYY-FM; WQOWTV, Eau Claire; Wausau Daily Herald; WJFW-TV, Rhinelander; WBAY-TV, Green Bay; WXOW-TV, La Crosse; WFRVTV·

'

http://www. wkow.com/Giobal/story.asp?S-14673114

Job numbers, job promises not in stone MADISON (WKOW) -- If there is a quote to define the central mission of Governor Walker's first months in office, this often-spoken one by the governor could qualify: "Wisconsin is open for business." Walker often backs up his claim by touting the growth in the number of jobs since he took office in January, as he did during a visit to Eau Claire's Curt Manufacturing. "In the first three months of this year, we've seen, in the private sector, more than 24,000 jobs being created."

1

http://www.jsonline.com/business/122268389.html

Jobless benefits extension held up for lack of quorum By Don Walker of the Journal Sentinel May 19, 2011 [(8) Comments

Members of an advisory panel who were asked by Gov. Scott Walker to endorse a change in state law that would have opened the door for the continuation of federally funded extended jobless benefits took no action Thursday because they lacked a quorum. The Unemployment Insurance Advisory Council did not have enough members to act, said John Dipko, a spokesman for the Department of Workforce Development.

http:ffaddins.wkow.com/blogs/scoop/2011/05/commerce-secretary-surprised-by-fellow-cabinet-members-exit

Commerce secretary surprised by fellow cabinet member's exit Wisconsin commerce secretary Paul Jadin told WKOW27 News last week's abrupt resignation of department of workforce development secretary Manny Perez caught him off-guard."lt was a surprise to me," Jadin said.

http:ffwww. postcrescent.com/article/2011 0519/APC03/11 0519035/Stock-rise-after-unemployment-claimsfall?odyssey-nav% 7Chead

Stock rise after unemployment claims fall NEW YORK- Stocks are opening higher, extending Wednesday's gains, after a government report showed a sharp drop in new claims for unemployment benefits. The Department of Labor is reporting that applications for benefits dropped 29,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 409,000.

http:ffwww.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/122250094.html

Nine state workers earned more than $65,000 each in overtime By Patrick Marley of the Journal Sentinel May 19,2011 3:00p.m. [(74) Comments

Madison- Nine state workers made more than $65,000 in overtime last year, including one who took in about $105,000 in overtime to more than double her salary. For the second year in a row, the state worker making the most in overtime was Sheryl Lee Fors, a nurse clinician at Southern Wisconsin Center who made a base salary of $91,077 and $104,930 in overtime. Total earnings for the year: $196,007.

http://www .isonline.com/business/122201984. html

ManpowerGroup survey: Talent is getting harder to find By Stephanie Beecher of the Journal Sentinel May 19, 2011 [(12) Comments

Employers say a talent shortage has saddled their efforts to fill jobs, according to a survey by ManpowerGroup. More than 50% of U.S. employers reported having difficulty filling "mission-critical" positions within their companies, up from 14% in 2010. Among the hardest positions to fill included jobs in skilled trades, sales and engineering.

http://www.fox6now.com/news/sns-ap-wi--workerkilled-citations,0,5301893.story

2 companies fined after industrial accident in Green Bay that killed 1 man, injured another By Associated Press 7:12AM COT, May 20, 2011 HOWARD, Wis. (AP)- Two companies involved in an industrial accident that killed an Appleton man have been cited for violations of federal safety rules. The accident occurred Dec. 2 at Hattiesburg Paper Co. in Green Bay when a forklift struck and toppled a lift that had hoisted two men 30 feet off the ground. One died and the other was critically injured.

Article also appeared: WMTV, Madison; WFRV-TV; WAOW, Wausau; Appleton Post Crescent

http://www. htrnews. com/article/2011 0520/MAN 01 01/1 05200658/Former -state-official-gets-Laborappointment?odyssey mod% 7Cnewswell% 7Ctext% 7CMAN-News% 7Cs

2

Former state official gets Labor appointment MADISON- Former Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman has been appointed by President Barack Obama's administration to a post in the U.S. Department of Labor.

Also appeared: Wisconsin State Journal; Milwaukee Daily Reporter; WMTV, Madison; WFRV-TV; WITI, Milwaukee; WISC-TV, Madison; WAOW, Wausau; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; La Crosse Tribune

http://www. marshfield newslierald. com/article/20 11 0520/MN H 04/1 05200357/Colu mn-Youth-apprentices-get-handslearning?odyssey-mod%7Cnewsweii%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cs

Column: Youth apprentices get hands-on learning

It's that time of year again: graduation. I would like to offer congratulations to local seniors who have participated in our Youth Apprenticeship and Health Career Connections programs. Youth Apprentices graduate from high school with marketable skills and valuable work experience. Health Career Connections provides students with an understanding of skills needed for a variety of careers within health services.

http://www2. bizjournals. com/milwaukee/prnewswire/press releases/national/Cal ifornia/20 11/05/1 9/LA05162

Environmental Training Center Prepares Companies to Handle Nanotechnology Environmental and Human Safety Impacts; Field of Nanotechnology Predicted to Grow to $2.5 Trillion Globally by 2015 PR Newswire SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 19,2011

SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 19, 2011/PRNewswire/-- The 2012 federal budget recommends the allocation of $2.1 billion to the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), a federal interagency research and development program that studies the imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulation of matter at the nanoscale-a measurement of particles between 1 and 100 nanometers (1 billionth of a meter) in size. While nanoscale materials are found in nature as part of smoke, volcanic ash, and sea spray, the advancement of microscopic magnification has allowed scientists to understand the new properties of matter that occur at the nano level.

http://www. usatoday.com/money/economv/2011-05-19-unemployment-benefits-fall n. htm

Claims for unemployment benefits fall; future looks bumpy WASHINGTON (AP)- The number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply for the second straight week, but a private research group's forecasting gauge posted its first drop since June 2010. New claims for unemployment benefits dropped 29,000 last week to a seasonally adjusted 409,000, the Labor Department said Thursday.

http:/ /www.usatoday.com/news/nation/20 11-05-19-job-creation-recession n.htm

Job creation limps along after recession By Dennis Cauchon, USA TODAY

Nearly two years after the economic recovery officially began, job creation continues to stagger at the slowest postrecession rate since the Great Depression. The nation has 5% fewer jobs today - a loss of 7 million -than it did when the recession began in December 2007. That is by far the worst performance of job generation following any of the dozen recessions since the 1930s.

http://www. postcrescent.com/article/20 11 0520/ APCO 1 01/1 05200498/R -R-Donnelley-closing-Ahnaip-Street -plantMenasha?odyssey-tabltopnewslimglAPC-News

R.R. Donnelley closing Ahnaip Street plant in Menasha; Ahnaip Street location to shut down by July

MENASHA- R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co.'s decision to close its book printing and bindery facility at 460 Ahnaip St. by July came as a surprise to at least one plant worker. Heading into his shift Thursday afternoon, Doug Schneidewend, a lead pressman, said the company's announcement to plant workers was a shock even though they know the printing industry is on a "downward trend."

3


From: Sent: To:

Murray, Ryan M - GOV Monday, June 13, 2011 8:44 PM Murray, Ryan M - GOV

Subject: Daily Policy and Legislative Update

Legislative Affairs Team

Legislative Contacts:

• Cindy met with Representative Kooyenga regarding AB 30- delegation of child by parent.

Assembly Session

• The Assembly is scheduled to begin debate on the budget tomorrow

Senate Session

• SB 93- concealed carry (as amended) • AB 148- bill to pay the bills (final passage) • SB 107-landlord CCAP usage preemption • SB 109- penalties for soft tissue injuries to law enforcement officers

Economic Development and Regulatory Reform

Commerce

• Marinette Marine names new General Manager o Former Congressman Beau Boulter called to report that Admiral Chuck Goddard (Ret.)

has been named as the general manager of the Marinette Marine shipyard. o Adm. Goddard was in charge of shipbuilding at the Navy prior to retiring in 2009.

• OECD o Confirming details and participation of WI parties for June meeting

o Working with Volz and Steve Baas

• BIO International Convention o Working with Commerce and WI Tech Council on details and scheduling o WTC recommended restaurant venue for Monday night meeting with companies and

VIP's

• Checking with Commerce to see if this would work

1

o Letter from the governor approved for the BIO Directory-- working with WTC on details

• Mining o Met with a member of the Lake Superior Binational Forum.

• The group that works to protect Lake Superior, per the Boundary Waters Treaty. • EPA has a Binational Task Force that works on these matters, the Forum acts as

a consultant to the Task Force. o They saw the initial ferrous mining legislation proposal and were concerned that it would

break certain provisions of our treaty with Canada.

• Opposition to JFC Motion on Bidding Requirements for Public Works Projects

o Joint Letter from Counties of Marathon, Brown, Colombia, Adams, Dunn, Kenosha, Waupaca, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Cities of Milwaukee and La Crosse and Villages of Brown Deer and Fox Point

o Wisconsin Chapter of American Public Works Association

o Letter from Door County

JOBS Hotline

• 2 calls received

Education and Human Services Team

DCF was notified today by NGA that they will receive a $10,000 grant. The selection and grant is in part of the Three Branch Institute on Adolescents in FosterCare.

Interim Secretary Scott Baumbach will be confirmed by the Senate tomorrow to become Secretary of Department of Workforce Development.

2

DHS Newsworthy:

FamilyCare enrollment cap in budget starts June 30 (The Racine Journal Times)

When the program started, the purpose was to serve seniors and people with disabilities. The idea was that it would save money because elderly people would use in-home care instead of going to the nursing homes. But it has ended up costing the state more, said Burlington's Rep. Samantha Kerkman, R-Powers Lake. She co-chairs the state's Joint Legislative Audit Committee, which recently conducted an audit of the program.

State official defends freeze on FamilyCare (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Kitty Rhoades, deputy secretary for health services, said a state audit and other data on the program have not provided answers to how much it would cost if a scheduled unfettered enrollment expansion were allowed. That means costs of allowing more enrollments in FamilyCare remain unknown, she said Friday. "As it expands, (costs) are a relative unknown quantity," said Rhodes.

Proposed Medicaid cuts put NJ in National Debate (Associated Press)

In New Jersey's case, changes would mean a parent of two earning more than $103 per week would be ineligible. At issue in New Jersey is a $540 million cut to state Medicaid funding that Gov. Chris Christie proposed for next year's budget. About $240 million comes from specific program cuts, such as $140 million dropped from nursing home coverage.

On Political Expediency and Health Care Reform- Guest Opinion (Kaiser Familv Health News) Author: James C. Capretta

DWD Newsworthy:

Finding skilled workers a struggle for Bucyrus (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

As chairman of the Governor's Council on Workforce Investment, a state advisory panel, Sullivan wants Gov. Scott Walker to change how the state spends hundreds of millions of dollars each year in federal job training funds- and in the process, link the funds to reforms of local education programs. The proposals would change how workforce investment boards- regional training entities- apply for funds. They would need to justify each allocation with commitments to reform the curricula of each region's kindergartenthrough-12'h public schools as well as each region's technical colleges.

Education:

• The U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Education and Workforce will markup H.R. 2117- The bill would repeal the federal regulation related to state authorization of higher education programs. That regulation specified that colleges that enroll students through online and distance-education programs must seek state approval to operate in all states in which they

3

operate. Colleges that fail to do so may lose their eligibility to award federal student aid to that states' students.

• The School Report Card OpEd is going through an redraft to address some of Tony Evers's concerns as well as the recent announcement on NCLB by Arne Duncan (see below).

Education News: Opinion: Revamp No Child Left Behind- now (Politico)

By Arne Duncan

Everyone responsible for educating children for the knowledge economy of the 21st century agrees that America's federal education law is in dire need of reform. Teachers, parents, school leaders, governors, members of Congress and the Education Department have all called for an overhaul of the No Child Left Behind Act.

Education Secretary May Agree to Waivers on 'No Child' Law Requirements (New York Times)

Unless Congress acts by this fall to overhaul No Child Left Behind, the main federal law on public education, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan signaled that he would use his executive authority to free states from the law's centerpiece requirement that all students be proficient in reading and math by 2014.

5 reasons to believe progress is being made to address reading crisis (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel/

I attended the second meeting of Gov. Scott Walker's Read to Lead Task Force recently. Unlike most anything else going on in the Capitol, this was a civil, constructive discussion involving people of diverse opinions. The focus of the afternoon-long session was how to improve the way teachers are trained to teach reading.

Finding skilled workers a struggle for Bucyrus (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

A delegation of senior Texas government authorities met Sullivan at the airport, including the mayor of the town of Kilgore. In a one-hour lunch, they matched Bucyrus with a ready-to-occupy factory with every possible amenity.

More important, they asked Sullivan exactly what sort of workers he needed. Sullivan said 80 with specific skill. The state gave Sullivan a guarantee that the workers would be waiting when the doors opened at the expansion site in Kilgore. State officials customized a recruitment, training and certification program. One year later, when the expansion site in Kilgore opened its doors, the 80 welders were waiting.

Justice and Local Governments Team

Local Governments and Property Taxes:

4

• Sheboygan Press. Editorial: State lawmakers should stop dictating to local government

Isn't it enough that Gov. Walker and the Legislature is limiting local government's ability to raise money to provide services to local taxpayers through limits on tax levies?

The state budget provision on road work further restricts local governments' ability to make up for reductions in state aid or shared revenue by prohibiting them from fully utilizing their highway and public works departments.

• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Editorial: Steps in the right direction but quite a few missteps, too

Whatever problems exist in the state budget proposed by Gov. Scott Walker and being worked on by the Legislature - and there are problems - Wisconsin should see its first honest budget in a long time.

It requires more prudent spending by local governments. There are some problems with that, and with the changes the state is making generally on collective bargaining, but labor costs do have to be reined in.

Other states face similar problems; many of them will see massive layoffs and cuts in services. Wisconsin's budget seeks to avoid that kind of outcome bv making necessary cuts in labor costs without lavoffs.

Education funding: Milwaukee Public Schools will be working with $182 million less than last year, most of that from an expected loss of $82 million in state revenue and $95.5 million in grant funding. Tough decisions will have to be made. The School Board should have made tough decisions earlier to prepare for this day. The district must find continued cost savings.

Last week, the School Board made the right call to ask the teachers union for concessions to save jobs. If the teachers union agrees to a 5. 8% pension contribution, which potentially could be done under legislation by the Legislature's budget committee, 198 teacher positions could be saved.

Juvenile corrections: Legislators have voted to shut down youth correctional institutions Ethan Allen School in the Town of Delafield and Southern Oaks Girls School in Union Grove. Juvenile offenders would be transferred from those institutions to the Lincoln Hills correctional facility in Irma in Lincoln County, about four hours from Milwaukee. The proposal saves $23 million but will be a hardship for Milwaukee families. Let's rethink that one.

5

• Appleton Post Crescent. Menasha officials say service reductions are inevitable as city struggles to balance budget

"The most equitable way now would be for those employees who did not participate in furloughs to start paying that 5.8 percent," Englebert said. "It's unfortunate the city police union would not help us and take a reduction in pay," Merkes said.

Officer Jeff Jorgenson, a police union bargaining committee member, said all bargaining units were told if they accepted a 1 percent pay increase in 2010 there would be no layoffs. He said the city has enacted staffing reductions in the police department, never hiring another officer as discussed in late 2008 and then did not replace a lieutenant who retired in early 2010.

Legislative Meetings:

• I met with Senator Zipperer's staff, Chris Reader to discuss SB 104 with Corrections staff. Corrections had ideas to reduce the fiscal cost. Zipperer agreed and is drafting a substitute amendment.

6


From: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Sent: To:

Thursday, April 28, 201112:00 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

Subject: Fw: Topics for Gov. tomorrow

From: Macdonald, Susan A <[email protected]> To: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Sent: Thu Apr 28 11:46:47 2011 Subject: Topics for Gov. tomorrow

Hi Cullen,

Hope you are enjoying your day off, and that some of it is non work-related!

Here is a general outline of the budget and education-related topics we'd like to discuss with the governor tomorrow when he arrives for "UpFront" at WISN at 1:30 p.m. (These are in no particular order.) As usual, it's a big picture discussion.

• Expansion of vouchers and school choice • UW Madison separation from UW System • SeniorCare • Recycling • Response of local officials to proposed cuts in state aid • Legislative work on budget • Updates on collective bargaining

If we get through all that, we'll be doing well.

Thanks again for all your help. See you soon!

Best Regards,

Susan

58


From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: To: Subject:

Thursday, April 28, 201112:04 PM [email protected]; [email protected] FW: Topics for Gov. tomorrow

For tomorrow's Gousha interview.

Chris Schrimpf Communications Director Office of the Governor Press Office: 608-267-7303 Email: [email protected]

From: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 12:00 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Subject: Fw: Topics for Gov. tomorrow

From: Macdonald, Susan To: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Sent: Thu Apr 28 11:46:47 2011 Subject: Topics for Gov. tomorrow

Hi Cullen,

Hope you are enjoying your day off, and that some of it is non work-related!

Here is a general outline of the budget and education-related topics we'd like to discuss with the governor tomorrow when he arrives for "UpFront" at WISN at 1:30 p.m. (These are in no particular order.) As usual, it's a big picture discussion.


If we get through all that, we'll be doing well.

Thanks again for all your help. See you soon I

Best Regards,

Susan

56


From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject:

Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Thursday, April 28, 201112:05 PM [email protected]; [email protected] [email protected] Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow

Ryan and Eric- Below are the topics that Gousha will be covering with the Governor tomorrow. Would appreciate any talking points you and your teams want him to hit on these.



55

Mohr, Mark - GOV


Murray, Ryan M - GOV Thursday, April 28, 201112:17 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV Werwie, Cullen J - GOV RE: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow

My suggestions below.

Ryan Murray I Office of the Governor Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs (o) 608-266-1212 I {e) [email protected]

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 2.8, 2.011 12.:05 PM To: Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow


• Expansion of vouchers and school choice o In any area of life, there's no incentive to innovate and improve when there's a monopoly on services. o Having a choice, and offering that choice to as many students and parents as possible, creates an incentive

to innovate and improve. o Extending the choice program to all students and parents will strengthen the program and strengthen our

public schools by making them more accountable to parents. • UW Madison separation from UW System

o (***NOTE- Don't hint at a compromise on this issue yet. Say you're willing to talk, but that you still want your original plan to pass. This will strengthen our hand in negotiations with the committee to ensure Madison gets as much Independence as possible, even if it's not separated from System)

o A strong economy requires a strong education system, so you support giving all campuses as much flexibility as possible to manage the necessary budget reductions that are being made to balance the budget.

o UW-Madison is unique within our system of higher education. It receives more than $1 billion in research grants and needs to be able to compete on a global scale.

o That's why you still support granting UW-Madison more independence and autonomy to manage its affairs with less interference from state government bureaucrats.

• SeniorCare o Your plan ensures that all seniors continue to receive the same level of benefits as they did before. o You're willing to work with the legislature to find a reasonable compromise on this issue.

• Recycling o The DNR has been in talks with the Legislature on a compromise proposal that encourages consolidation

and efficiency, without eliminating the program entirely. • Response of local officials to proposed cuts in state aid

o Disappointed with the response from many local officials, though certainly not all, that they seem unwilling to fully utilize the tools granted under the budget repair bill.

o Many of them are failing to explore options like less expensive insurance plans, more efficient work schedules, or even higher employee contribution amounts.

o That's why we're seeing a discrepancy between our numbers. o Fixing budgets without raising taxes requires tough decisions. Local leaders who are willing to make those

tough decisions will find that we have provided plenty of tools to avoid major service cuts.

1

• Legislative work on budget o In any budget, the governor makes proposals and then works with the Legislature to alter or improve upon

them. The same thing is happening here. • Updates on collective bargaining

o It's my hope that we can conclude this process quickly to ensure that both the state and local governments can begin to implement the tools as quickly as possible to begin balancing our budgets.


54

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Sent:

Murray, Ryan M - GOV Thursday, April 28, 20111:30 PM

To: Subject:

Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV FW: GB School follow up

Well, this sounds like it went great ...

Ryan Murray I Office of the Governor Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs (o) 608-266-1212 I (e) [email protected]

-----Original Message----From: Matejov, Scott- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:14 PM To: Murray, Ryan M- GOV Subject: GB School follow up

Today in Green Bay, the Governor was asked how much the elimination of collective bargaining "rights" would save. His initial reply was $300 million in the short run.

A couple teachers took issue with that answer and tried to cite the Governor's Congressional testimony where a ·Congressman issued a press release stating the Gov admitted it would not save any money.

The Governor responded that that press release related to a question involving the savings from requiring a yearly union vote.

The teachers requested and the Governor agreed to email a transcript containing his comments on the $300 million in savings.

Could we get a copy of that portion?

The Gov also mentioned that there was an article written somewhere that stated that his comments relating to that Congressman's press release were inaccurate. The Gov was hoping to include that too.

In addition, the Governor would also like to include as a separate note information on combined reporting and the tax increase on the highest tax brackets from 2 years ago and that in this budget those tax increases remain the same.

One teacher asked why the Gov wasn't taxes billionaires.

Could some from the budget shop put that together?

Hopefully this all makes sense ...

1

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: To: Subject:

Thursday, April 28, 201112:36 PM [email protected]; [email protected] FW: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow

Updated with suggested points from policy.


From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 201112:17 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: RE: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow



From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 12:05 PM To: Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow





o (***NOTE- Don't hint at a compromise on this issue yet. Say you're willing to talk, but that you still want your original plan to pass. This will strengthen our hand in negotiations with the committee to ensure Madison gets as much independence as possible, even if it's not separated from System)



1

o That's why you still support granting UW-Madison more independence and autonomy to manage its affairs with less interference from state government bureaucrats.

• SeniorCare o Your plan ensures that all seniors continue to receive the same level of benefits as they did before. o You're willing to work with the legislature to find a reasonable compromise on this issue.






tough decisions will find that we have provided plenty of tools to avoid major service cuts. • Legislative work on budget

o In any budget, the governor makes proposals and then works with the Legislature to alter or improve upon them. The same thing is happening here.

• Updates on collective bargaining o It's my hope that we can conclude this process quickly to ensure that both the state and local governments

can begin to implement the tools as quickly as possible to begin balancing our budgets.


52

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Schrimpf, Chiis - GOV Sent: To:

Thursday, April 28, 2011 2:30 PM Grinder, Jennifer- GOV

Subject: Fw: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow

From: Schrimpf, Chris- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 12:35 PM To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: FW: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow

Updated with suggested points from policy.


From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 12:17 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: RE: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow


Ryan Murray I Office of the Governor Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs (a) 608-266-1212 I (e) [email protected]

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 12:05 PM To: Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: Prep for Gousha Interview Tomorrow





1

o (***NOTE- Don't hint at a compromise on this issue yet. Say you're willing to talk, but that you still want your original plan to pass. This will strengthen our hand in negotiations with the committee to ensure Madison gets as much independence as possible, even if it's not separated from System)



o That's why you still support granting UW-Madison more independence and autonomy to manage its affairs with Jess interference from state government bureaucrats.

• SeniorCare o Your plan ensures that all seniors continue to receive the same level of benefits as they did before. o You're willing to work with the legislature to finq a reasonable compromise on this issue.






tough decisions will find that we have provided plenty of tools to avoid major service cuts. • Legislative work on budget

o In any budget, the governor makes proposals and then works with the Legislature to alter or improve upon them. The same thing is happening here.

• Updates on collective bargaining o It's my hope that we can conclude this process quickly to ensure that both the state and local governments

can begin to implement the tools as quickly as possible to begin balancing our budgets.


45

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 2:01 PM To: Subject:

Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV RE: GB School follow up

Attachments:

Chris Schrimpf Communications Director Office of the Governor Press Office: 608-267-7303

Letter to Darrell Issa.pdf

Email: [email protected]

-----Original Message----From: Murray, Ryan M- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:30 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris- GOV; Gilkes, Keith- GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV Subject: FW: GB School follow up

Well, this sounds like it went great ...


-----Origina I Message----From: Matejov, Scott- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:14 PM To: Murray, Ryan M- GOV Subject: GB School follow up


A couple teachers took issue with that answer and tried to cite the Governor's Congressional testimony where a Congressman issued a press release stating the Gov admitted it would not save any money.




1






47

Aprill5, 2011

The Honorable Dmwll Issa

SCOTT WALKER OFFICE OF THE GQVERNOR

STATE OF WISCONSIN

Chairm~11, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 234( Raybum House Office Building Washington, DC 20515

Dear Chailman lssa:

P.O.Box7863 MADISON, WI 53707

Thank you for inviting me to address the House Committee on Oversight and Govemment Reform. It was an honor to provide an overview of our budget refom1s in Wisconsin.

It seems that there is some confusion about a question asked by Congressman Dennis Kucinich. He inquired about a provision ofthe reform package that specified when a vote to cetiifY must be taken by employees. That specific provision does not have direct fiscal benefit to the state.

The reforms related to collective bargaining in our new law do provide a dramatic savings. For the next budget cycle (2011-2013), om reforms provide $1.44 billion wotih of savings forlocal govemments and $300 million worth of savings for state government.

This is a significant part of our efforts to balance the $3.6 billion deficit we inherited from former Govemor Jim Doyle and the previous Legislature.

Th,ese savings allow us to avoid massive layoffs and massive tax increases. In other wordS, we are protecting middle class jobs and middle class taxpayers because of these reforms.

Once in, thank you for the invitation to appear before yom committee.

Scott W.llilker Gover State

·~

WISCONSIN IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS WWW.WISGOV.STATE.WI.US • (608) 266-1212 • FAX: (608)267-8983

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:54 PM To: Subject:

Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV RE: GB School follow up

School savings: http://walker.wi.gov/docview.asp?docid-21370&Iocid-177

This may be the article he was talking about. It also has the transcript in it: http://www.newsbusters.org/blogs/glena s bu rv/2011/04/18/ a p-fa lsely-cla ims-scott -wa Ike r -adm itted-collective-ba rga in i ng-restricti


-----Original Message----From: Murray, Ryan M- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:30 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris- GOV; Gilkes, Keith- GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV Subject: FW: GB School follow up

Well, this sounds like it went great...


-----Original Message----From: Matejov, Scott- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:14 PM To: Murray, Ryan M- GOV Subject: GB School follow up





1







49

Mohr, Mark - GOV

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 2:51 PM To: Subject:

Murray, Ryan M - GOV; Gilkes, Keith - GOV; Schutt, Eric - GOV Re: GB School follow up

http://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/article/20110428/GPG0101/110428117/Walker-visits-Chappeii-Eiementarypromote-reading-initiative?odyssey-tab%7Ctopnews%7Cimg%7CGPG-News

-----Original Message----From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 01:29 PM To: Schrimpf, Chris- GOV; Gilkes, Keith- GOV; Schutt, Eric- GOV Subject: FW: GB School follow up

Well, this sounds like it went great...


-----Original Message----From: Matejov, Scott- GOV Sent: Thursday, April 28, 20111:14 PM To: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Subject: GB School follow up





Could we get a copy ofthat portion?

The Gov also mentioned that there was an article written somewhere that stated that his comments relating to that Congressman's press release were. inaccurate. The Gov was hoping to include that too.


1



Kloiber, Bill - DOA Thursday, April 28, 2011 3:29 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Fw: Memo to Editorial Boards on The Path to Prosperity

From: Kinzel, Will [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, April 2011 PM To: Adam Nordstrom [email protected] <andrew [email protected]>; <[email protected]>; ( [email protected]) <[email protected]>; Beth Kohler Lazare ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Kloiber, Bill- DOA; Bill McBride ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>;

b~~~~an~~:~~~.~~~~;~~~~~) <bob.schwaneberg@gov Brandon Steinmann (I <bsteinnlann@>os·fr.state.tx.us>;

~!!:

Der1ise Northrup ([email protected]) 1

, Brian Nutt Claude

<[email protected]>; Dona Deleon <[email protected]>; Doug Hoelscher (doug. ; Ed Perez ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; , Eric Finkbeiner (eric.finkbeiner@governor. 1 1 .v1rg1ma [email protected] <hedgcockm@gov .state.la.us>; jabotlO@gmail jamieshuster@gov .sc.gov <jamieshuster@gov .sc.gov>; jasen.eige@governor. virginia .gov <[email protected]>; Jason Kreizenbeck ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jeannemarie Davis ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jeff Barnes ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jeff Boeyink ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jen Rae Hein ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jennifer Branstetter ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Jim Seyer ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; John Katz ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Fadness, Joseph F- GOV; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Katy Oder <katy~eith Gardner ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Krista ·carma~

Kristi Craig ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Lauren Kint:ner

(msar1derson@>qove1·nor.state.ms.us>; Cate ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Michael Ciamarra ([email protected]) <[email protected]> · Mic:hael D·iSabat

<[email protected] ; Robert Spendlove ([email protected]) <rspelldkJve•@utah <[email protected]>; Ryan Serote ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Seth Levey <[email protected]>; sirena. ramirez@guam .gov <sirena. ramirez@guam .gov>; Spence Geissinger (spencer .geissinger@eog. myflorida.com) <[email protected]>; Stephen Waguespack ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; [email protected] <tammy. Tim Pearson (ti1r npi~;lr:sori@~Jov·.sc.gov) <[email protected]>; Todd Smith!•

; Wayne Struble ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; waym~.hi~senbi~lg1~gov.state.1nj.tJs <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Zak Tomich ([email protected]) <[email protected]> Cc: Lanier Swann ([email protected]) <[email protected]>; Brandi White ([email protected]) <[email protected]> Subject: FW: Memo to Editorial Boards on The Path to Prosperity

FYI, from our press team ...

From: Speaker Boehner Press Office Sent: Thursday, April 28, 2011 4:09 PM Subject: Memo to Editorial Boards on The Path to Prosperity

Please see below (or click here for a PDF) for a memo to editorial boards from Speaker Boehner's press office on the House-passed budget for FY 2012, The Path to Prosperity, and its focus on creating jobs, cutting spending, and preserving Medicare for current and future generations.

MEMORANDUM

TO: EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS FROM: SPEAKER BOEHNER'S PRESS OFFICE DATE: APRIL 28, 2011 RE: THE PATH TO PROSPERITY

On April15, 2011, the Republican-led U.S. House of Representatives adopted a budget- authored by Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) and entitled "The Path to Prosperity"- that will help boost our economy and create new jobs, lift the crushing burden of debt that threatens our future, and preserve critical health and retirement programs for America's seniors.

Despite the onslaught of misleading attacks from the Democratic Party, the most recent USA Today/Gallup survey says "Republicans hold a 12-percentage-point edge over Democrats as the party better able to handle the budget, and a fivepoint edge on the economy in general." The reason is simple: Republicans have put forth a credible budget that honestly addresses the economic and fiscal challenges our country faces. In contrast, President Obama put forth a budget in February that was widely-panned as not serious, and gave a speech several weeks ago that again failed to fully address our nation's problems.

Here is a quick comparison between the GOP budget (H. Con. Res. 34) and the plans outlined by President Obama:

THE GOP BUDGET WILL BOOST OUR ECONOMY & HELP CREATE NEW AMERICAN JOBS: The GOP budget is focused on helping end the uncertainty facing job creators so they can start hiring again by cutting spending, eliminating $800 billion in tax increases imposed by President Obama's health care law, and preventing the $1.5 trillion tax hike proposed in his budget. It creates a simpler, less burdensome tax code and lowers rates for families and small busi,nesses by "weeding from the tax code numerous tax breaks and loopholes," according to the Associated Press. It also repeals the president's health care law (and all of its tax hikes, mandates, and excessive regulations) and remove.s barriers to energy production that will help lower gas prices and create new jobs.

)> The president's budget would destroy jobs and create more uncertainty by imposing dramatic tax hikes on job creators. James Pethokoukis with Reuters says the president's proposed tax hikes amount to "$2 trillion in new taxes over 12 years."

39

~ Analysis by the House Budget Committee found the White House "included the new tax increases associated with the health care bill" in its budget. Economist Diana Furchtgott-Roth says the health care law's tax hikes and penalties discourage small businesses from hiring. She says, "Firms with fewer than 50 workers won't want to grow, and firms with around 60 to 70 workers will be trying to shrink to 50 workers to cut costs. Low-skill workers will be the worst affected."

~ In testimony before the House Budget Committee, former Director of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office {CBO) Douglas Holtz-Eakin said "cutting spending is a pro-growth policy move," and that "controlling federal spending growth" is essential to help create new jobs.

~ When it comes to helping the economy, a Democratic polling firm found that independents prefer "reducing the deficit through spending cuts" to tax hikes by a margin of 50- 39 percent.

THE GOP BUDGET WILL CUT SPENDING & PUT US ON A PATH TO PAY DOWN OUR DEBT: The Path to Prosperity cuts government spending by $6.2 trillion over the next decade. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) confirms that the GOP plan balances the budget and puts us on a path to pay down our debt over time. It also eliminates hundreds of duplicative government programs, maintains the Republican ban on pork-barrel earmarks, and ends the taxpayer bailouts of financial institutions (including Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government mortgage giants at the heart of our economic crisis).

~ Alan Simpson and Erskine Bowles- co-chairmen of President.Obama's deficit commission- said the GOP budget "incorporates many of the proposals included in the Commission report," and "is a serious, honest, straightforward approach to addressing our nation's enormous fiscal challenges."

~ The president's budget locks in the failed "stimulus" spending binge and adds more than $9 trillion to the debt over the next 10 years. Stanford economist John B. Taylor says federal spending was 18.2% of GDP in the year 2000 and 19.6% in 2007. "But in the three years since 2009 it's jumped to an average of 24.4%," and the president's budget "proposed to make that spending binge permanent."

~ President Obama has also asked Congress to raise the debt limit without serious spending cuts or budget reforms. A new survey by Resurgent Republic found that "voters overwhelmingly oppose increasing the debt limit unless strong conditions" and "substantial spending cuts" are attached.

~ A recent CNN survey shows that- when "dealing with the tough choices involved both in cutting programs to reduce the budget deficit and still maintaining needed federal programs"- independents prefer the Republican approach by a margin of 49- 34 percent.

THE GOP BUDGET WILL PROTECT & PRESERVE CRITICAL HEALTH & RETIREMENT PROGRAMS: Under The Path to Prosperity, there will be no changes and no disruptions to benefits for Americans over the age of 55, and future beneficiaries will have access to the same kinds of options as Members of Congress. The GOP budget ensures that lowerincome Americans get more support and that the costs of junk lawsuits are not passed on to consumers in the form of high~r prices. It stops Washington from raiding Medicare to pay for other costly programs and eliminates the Independent Payment Advisory Board {IPAB), a "rationing board" created by ObamaCare. It also ends the one-size-fitsall approach of Medicaid and gives states more flexibility to meet the needs of their residents. Bottom line: this plan saves programs like Medicare for current and future generations of Americans.

~ The president's budget does nothing, guaranteeing benefit cuts for seniors. FactCheck.org reported that "if nothing is done, when those trust funds are exhausted, benefits would have to be cut by 22 percent in 2037, and more each year after that, according to the most recent report of the system's trustees. By 2084, the system will generate only enough revenue to pay for 75 percent of promised benefit levels."

40

~ Analysis by the nonpartisan CBO shows- if we do nothing- Medicare will be bankrupt within 10 years. A report by the trustees for Medicare says "[w]ithout corrective legislation ... the assets of the [Medicare] trust fund would be exhausted within the next 7 to 19 years."

~ The president would also rely on the IPAB- an unelected "rationing board" -to force hundreds of billions of dollars in cuts in addition to the hundreds of billions in Medicare cuts Democrats used to finance ObamaCare. The Wall Street Journal says this will lead to "the political rationing of care for the elderly, as now occurs in Britain," and many doctors and hospitals may "drop out of Medicare" altogether.

~ Despite the best efforts of Democrats to demonize the GOP budget, a CBS News/New York Times survey "reported that a plurality of Americans actually approve of GOP Rep. Paul Ryan's Medicare reforms."

~ A new national survey by Gallup says "[p]luralities of middle-aged Americans as well as those 65 and older prefer Ryan's plan to Obama's," with seniors preferring The Path to Prosperity by a 48-42 margin.

For more details on The Path to Prosperity, please visit http://budget.house.gov/fy2012budget/ today.

41



Bauer, Scott <[email protected]> Thursday, April 28, 2011 3:33 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

this is absolutely classic

From a story on Madison.com right now about collective bargaining:

"This budget was not developed with politics in mind," Welhouse said.

Scott Bauer Associated Press P.O. Box 962 Madison, Wis. 53701

37

Downing, ~arley - GOV

From: Murray, Ryan M - GOV Thursday, April 28, 2011 6:16 PM Murray, Ryan M - GOV

Sent: To: Subject: Daily Policy and Legislative Briefing

Legislative Affairs Team Legislative

• Representative Weininger's Office called with questions concerning CCAP and the Democracy Trust Fund.

Economic Development and Regulatory Reform Team

Commerce • Amendment to Dairy Manufacturing Tax Credit budget provision

o Rep. AI Ott is offering a budget amendment to change a budget provision that would assist co-ops o Shared the amendment with Commerce to see if it they are supportive

• Transfer to WEDC

DNR

o Commerce, Budget Office, ETF, and OSER met yesterday on potential issues regarding sick leave with the transfer to WEDC from Commerce

• Born Free USA o DNR will draft a response to the group on our trapping policies.

• Cooperative Network o Cooperative Network had concerns about some provisions in our budget concerning grants given to the

co-ops. o DNR staff cleared up the issue, the money is still given and the co-ops have been reassured.

• State Trails Council o Legislation has been introduced to increase this Governor appointed council from 9 to 11 members.

DATCP • Recapped the Heilongjiang visit with Lora Klenke from DATCP

o DATCP sending a draft letter for Governor to thank Vice Governor Du and Consul General Yang o Due to a name issue, Governor should not use the Chinese business cards developed earlier; will replace

with correct ones for next use , o Need to confirm timing of fall trip to China; planning must begin very soon to make the trip work

• PACE o The Rock County Land Conservation Committee sent in a letter outlining some alternatives to eliminating

PACE and the conversion fee. • 3-A Dairy Standards

o DATCP staff is in touch with a company through contact with Rep. Jacque's office. o The company feels that compliance would be too costly for them.

DOT • Sec. Gottlieb met with Rep. Weininger regarding the WisDOT use of consultants, US4111-43 Interchange and

roundabouts. • Sec. Gottlieb met with Rep. Petrowski regarding federal transit assistance, constitutional amendment and

registration stickers. • Stillwater Bridge

• Public Hearing of Sen. Committee on Transportation and Elections on SB26 relating to bonding authority for major interstate bridge projects.

• Sen. Harsdorf and St. Croix River Crossing Coalition testified in favor. All registered parties did so in favor of the bill.

• Contact with Representative Bachmann's office. • WisDOT is working with the City of Shullsburg on a potential TEA grant to improve the roadway to White Hill

Cheese. The proposed project would assist in bringing 50 new jobs to Shullsburg.

33

Tourism • National Tourism Week

o Working with Secretary Klett and Dep. Sec. Fantle on finalizing their schedule, and also making sure the target areas of the state of being focused upon with events

Venture Capital • Ryan and Jason met with Tom Still and Mark Bugher to update them on the issue

• JFC

WHEDA

o DFI is tentatively scheduled for next week's hearings, however is not on the schedule for Tuesday, so looking more like Thursday

o Let E.A. Eric Knight know that DFI is expected to be on the docket for next week's hearing

• Modernization of WHEDA Statutes o Sent WHEDA's proposals to LRB drafter

JOBS Hotline • 2 calls received

Health Care and Education Team DWD:

• Met with Scott Baumbach and Assistant Attorney Maria Lazar o Maria has indicated a judicial loophole created in bankruptcy law by the y'h circuit court judge. Scott

indicated that he spoke with the legal attorneys·at DWD. The language change Maria is suggesting would be approved by the department. Currently, our legal council is reviewing Maria's document.

DHS: FamilyCare Audit Released:

o State Lawmaker Rep. Kerkman: Insurance executives salaries too high

Education: • Developed a list of options for changes to MPCP

Education News: School districts' health plans cost more than businesses' plans (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel) School districts in southeastern Wisconsin pay significantly more for health insurance than do private businesses- as much as 76% more- and their employees bear much less of the overall cost, an analysis released Wednesday shows. The relatively small contribution teachers in general make to their insurance coverage drew considerable attention during the superheated debate over Gov. Scott Walker's budget-repair bill and his bid to sharply limit collective bargaining by most government employees.

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker visits Chappell Elementarv to promote 'Read to Lead' task force (Green Bav Press Gazette) Gov: Scott Walker visited Chappell Elementary School on Thursday to read to third graders and promote a newly formed state "Read to Lead" task force.

He also planned to meet with school officials to discuss successful reading programs at the school. About 80 percent of Chappell fourth graders who took the Wisconsin Knowledge and Concept Examination in November 2010 could read at a proficient or advanced level. '

Giving the UW-Madison more freedom with the New Badger Partnership makes sense (The Isthmus) The New Badger Partnership will help the UW-Madison get even more money and spend. it more effectively. It will help the university show that Scott Walker's budget cuts won't keep it from being one of the best and most accessible universities in the world.

34

Justice and Local Governments Team Local Government:

• I spoke to Mayor Bauer of the City of Durand who is in Madison for League lobby day. It was just a happy hello and that he supports the Governor.

• Racine Journal Times. Mayors object to spending cuts under budget

Racine Mayor John Dickert said Wednesday that Walker's budget would cut cities by $136 million, but only about 60 percent of that would be made up through his currently stalled proposal requiring public workers to pay more for their pension and health care benefits.

Walker spokesman Cullen Werwie says the cities' numbers are wrong and they would be able to make up for nearly all the cuts through the collective bargaining savings.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett specifically faulted Walker's plan to cut recycling aid by 40 percent. He says he's consulting with his city attorney about whether the move is illegal.

• Appleton Post Crescent. Hanna: City faces $1M in cuts

"That's a good thing," Hanna said. "We've asked other governors for tools and I understand what the governor is trying to do. (But) how it is presented and how it plays out on the local/eve/ are two different things and that's what we are trying to correct."

• Gov. Scott Walker spokesman Cullen WeiWie said the Urban Alliance's projections don't factor in workers in several categories, and reiterated that the savings offered to local governments exceed the cuts. The governor's office also issued memos to cities regarding the budget.

*See a memo from the Walker administration to the city of Milwaukee on the budget: http://www.wispolitics.com/1 006/11 0427Walker memo Milwaukee. pdf *See the memo for Manitowoc: http://www. wispolitics.com/1 006111 0427Walker memo Manitowoc. pdf *See the memo for Appleton: http://www.wispolitics.com/1 006/11 0427Walker memo Appleton.pdf *See the memo for Racine: http://www.wispolitics.com/1 006/11 0427Walker memo Racine.p

Legislator Meetings:

• I spoke to Representative Weininger about CCAP concerns. He also was interested in the cost of improvements at the Green Bay Correctional Facility.

Veterans:

• The Assembly hearing on AB 96 to restructure the board and give secretarial appointment authority to the Governor took place. It went well with DAV, MOPH, VFW, AMVETS, and various others in support with minor changes and the Legion opposed to only gubernatorial appointing authority and term length changes.

• DAV. Supports AB-96 changes to WDVA Board, Secretary with amendments

As DA V's national commander, Marbes met on behalf of DA V with then President Clinton and leaders in the Clinton Administration. "To me, elevating the role of the WDVA Secretary to the cabinet level, just like at the national/eve/, is good for the state veterans agency and good for veterans," said Marbes.

"/respect the views of those who believe that a Board overseeing WDVA prevents politics from entering into WDVA's operations. However, that noble goal has simply not ever been the reality," said Marbes. "I also believe six years is too long for Board members' appointments, and I favor a change in term length to something shorter than six years," said Marbes.

Amendments to AB 96 sought by DAV include: requiring the WDVA Secretary to be a veteran; ensuring the WDVA Secretary is the agency head with directing and supervisory roles; and, requiring the veterans organizations consulted by

35

the Governor in AB 96's appointment process to be Wisconsin's largest veterans service organizations, as defined by their total number of Wisconsin members, which are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

• Military Order of the Purple Heart. AB-96 -Good for veterans and needed for essential for oversight of veterans programs at the WDVA

"One frustration the MOPH has had with the Board of Veterans of Affairs is lack of recourse and accountability for Board actions that we feel are not in the best interests of our members", says Bill Hustad, commander of the WI MOPH, "AB 96 would make the Secretary appointed by the Governor, instead of the Board, thus allowing the MOPH and other veterans groups to express our concerns to the Governor to take action, rather than to the very body that took the action in the first place".

• The Capital Times. Bill would give the governor greater power over the Veterans Affairs Department

The GOP-controlled Legislature, however, did not approve a bill proposed by Walker earlier this year that would have given him broad powers to change administrative rules without oversight by the Legislature.

When asked if Walker would be in favor of the Veterans Affairs proposal, gubernatorial spokesman Cullen Werwie said in a prepared statement only that "we will evaluate the final version of the bill once it gets to the governor's desk."

36



John Thomasian <[email protected]>

Friday, April 29, 2011 6:00AM Schrimpf, Chris- GOV

Front & Center: Sentencing; Workers Camp; Doctor's Apology; Energy Outlook; Teacher Evaluations

l~i~~i ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--Michigan li i Snyder is proposing to transform the education departments into a single, integrated system spanning from early childhood education through the postsecondary education.

j~&Q~~~ITL~flg~~illru~~~flJ~~I§-- Kansas and Montana each recently passed legislation to update their workers compensation systems to better serve both employers and employees.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~-,;c~olorado jGovernor John Hickenlooper has signed requiring that presentence reports include offender risk-needs assessments so that judges can Impose sentences that address an offender's individual characteristics.

Nevada is considering legislation aimed at state's prison population.

31

i host a web conference

~~~:~~~i~,~~g how states can address I< today, April 29, 2011,

p.m.-3:00p.m. ET. The web lcc>nf<.rence will provide an opportunity to

about food insecurity among ~~~:~~;~~~,the effects of hunger on child lc and how governors are at the lforef'ror1t of efforts to reduce hunger

kids. Discussions will focus on how using data, critical partnerships,

ltalroPtPrl outreach and leadership to ladldr<ess and reduce childhood hunger. To

for the event, please contact I"""-'""-"== at 202-624-7835.

~~~~~;~~~~~~@,r-c~r~iminal participate in the

ICJfb<,mcirr;<e and Forensic Sciences IE>recuti>te Policy Forum in Snowbird, Utah1

9-10, 2011. The meeting will i sessions and

If~,;~~::,~'~ discussions led by experts in If sciences, corrections and criminal

I . The NGA Center will provide lodging reimbursement for one

lpa,rtic:ip<mt per state.

Maryland has launched the MII2FedJobs Web portal, located on the Maryland Workforce Exchange, to directly match transitioning service members with careers in the federal government.

insurance program Income adults, Commonwealth Care, has yielded an estimated $80 million In savings for 2012 as a result of the competitive bidding process for managed care organizations (MCOs).

-- Michigan Governor Rick Snyder i that will allow medical providers to express

patients and families without fear of self-

U.S. Releases Full Annual Energy Outlook-- The U.S. Energy Information Administration has released the full version oflts Annual Energy Outlook 2011, analyzing trends in energy production and consumption and projecting the state of the energy sector through 2035.

U.S, Chamber Highlights Importance of Non-Baccalaureate Degrees -'The u.s. ChamberofCommercereleased a report identifying the demand for workers with career credentials and associate's degrees in the United States, and a lack of awareness among busln€!5? and _educatioh _leaders.

Report Finds Cyber Attacks-Ori Infrastructure Rising --A-new study by McAfee and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) found an accelerated increase In cyber attacks on critical infrastrtJcture st.ic_h as poWer-grids,_oil, gas and water, with 80 percent of those surveyed having faced a largeScale denial of service attack over the-past year.

Report Analyzes Implications of MulticState Health Insurance Exchanges-' A report released by the Urban Institute and the Robert WOod Johnson Foundation -examines considerations for states In forming multi-st~te healthlnsurance exchanges.

at 202-624-3598, or Jeff Mcleod at 202-624-5311.

M~y 1-2, 2011 Governors' Education Symposium Washington D.C. Contact: Tabitha Grossm~n, 202-624-5312

May 25, 2011 Expert Roundtable on High School Accountability Washington, D.C. Contact: Ryan Reyna, 202-624-7820

June 9-11, 2011 Governors' Education, Workforce, and Economic Development Advisors Institute Seattle, WA Contact: Erin Sparks, 202-624-7794

The National Governors Association Center for Best Practices develops innovative solutions to today's most pressing public policy challenge and is the nation's only research and development firm that directly serves the nation's governors.

More About the Center Center Home Publications

Comments or Story Ideas? Contact: Lauren Stewart

You are currently subscribed to [fc] as [email protected] .. To unsubscribe 1 send a blank email to leave-195115-151172.bfefdl22c091053c0cfd75c9196070e5@talk.nga.org ••

32


From: Sent: To:

Subject:

DWD MB Communications Office Friday, April 29, 2011 8:36AM Barroilhet, Dan - DWD; Bartol, Fred - DWD; Baumbach, Scott C - DWD; Beckett, Laura LDWD; 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; Crary, Cathy- DWD; Denis, Gary J - DWD; Dipko, John A- DWD; Domenoski, Brian K- 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!}..- 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; Pelon, Brian -DWD; Perez, Manuel - DWD; Phillips, Amelia - DWD; Preysz, Linda - DWD; Reid, Andrea - DWD; Richard, JoAnna - 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 CustomScoops 4.29.11

http://www. workerscompensation. com/compnewsnetwork/news/wi-pioneering-wc-law-1 00. html

Wisconsin's Pioneering Worker's Compensation Law Turns 100 28 April, 2011 12:43:00 compnewsnetwork Madison, WI (CompNewsNetwork)- Secretary Manny Perez of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development released the following statement yesterday commemorating Workers' Compensation law turning 100: Whether you work behind a desk, drive a truck, or walk beams on high rise construction sites, your life and your family are far more secure. because of the dream of a few bold Wisconsinites with the vision to create a new way of responding to work injury. Wisconsin pioneered a system of financial protection so solid and certain that many workers often take for granted the safety net of worker's compensation that protects them and their families.

http://www.thewheelerreport.com/releases/April11/0428/0428 New Report Shows Train Could Create 103,000 Jobs, $13.8 Billion in Economic Activity Transportation, State Leaders Call on Governor Walker to Expand Train Service Madison, WI-Transportation advocates, workers and state leaders released a report today entitled "The Economic Impacts of High Speed Rail: Transforming the Midwest" showing that expanding passenger train service in Wisconsin and the Midwest can create 103,000 jobs and $13.8 billion of economic activity in the region.

http://www. thewheelerreport. com/releases/ April11/0428/0428cows. pdf Wisconsin Job Watch: Has the jobs recovery finally begun? For the first time in 40 months, Wisconsin has had three consecutive months of job growth. The state added 9, 100 jobs in March 2011, reports the Center on Wisconsin Strategy (COWS), fueling hopes for economic recovery. However, Wisconsin still has a deep jobs hole to climb out of, with a net 126,900 fewer hibs than in December 2007, before the recession started.

http://www. thewheelerreport. com/releases/ Apri 111/0428/0428wbc. pdf Wisconsin Among Top 5 States for New Investment Tax Competitiveness MADISON- A new report by Ernst & Young and the Council on State Taxation ranks Wisconsin fourth in the nation in terms of lowest effective tax rate (ETR) on new capital investment at 4.5 percent. Only Maine, Oregon, and Ohio had a lower ETR, which is a key indicator of competitiveness for new jobs and investment.

28

http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ui/eta2011 0583.htm UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS REPORT In the week ending April 23, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 429,000, an increase of 25,000 from the previous week's revised figure of 404,000. The 4-week moving average was 408,500, an increase of 9,250 from the previous week's revised average of 399,250. The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.9 percent for the week ending April 16, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point from the prior week's revised rate of 3.0 percent. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending April 16 was 3,641 ,000, a decrease of 68,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 3, 709,000. The 4-week moving average

http://www. thenorthwestern .com/article/20 11 0428/0SHO 1 01/11 042804 7/0shkosh-Corp-profits-slump-com panytransitions-new-truck-line?odyssey=tabltopnewslimgiFRONTPAGE Oshkosh Corp. profits slump as company transitions to new truck line Oshkosh Corp.'s sales and profits fell in the second quarter as the company continued its transition from a fast-paced, high-volume contract to produce mine-resistant all terrain vehicles to a more long term contract to produce larger trucks for the military. Net sales for the quarter were $1.75 billion and net income was $67.9 million, or 74 cents per share, compared to net sales of $2.86 billion and income of $292.6 million, or $3.22 per share, in the second quarter of 2010 .

. http://www.jsonline.com/business/120864 799. html Manufacturing economy improved in April, index shows By Rick Barrett of the Journal Sentinel April 28, 2011 10:08 a.m. [(31 l Comments The local manufacturing economy improved slightly in April, according to a report Thursday from the Milwaukee chapter of the Institute for Supply Management. The group said its seasonally adjusted manufacturing index was up two points, to 68, from a year ago.

http://www. bizjournals.com/milwau kee/news/20 11/04/27/milwaukee-among-77 -metros-adding-jobs. html Milwaukee among 77 metros adding jobs Seventy-seven of the nation's 100 biggest markets -- Milwaukee among them -- added jobs in March, according to a report issued Wednesday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis metropolitan area grew from 792,400 nonfarm jobs in March 2010 to 814,900 in the same month this year.

http://www. postcrescent. com/article/20 11 0428/ APC03/1 04280538/Jobless-rate-falls-largecities?odyssey-tab[topnews[img[Business Jobless rate falls in large cities Signs of more hiring seen in majority of metropolitan areas The unemployment0.. rate fell last month in more than 80 percent of the nation's largest metro areas, adding to evidence that the recent pickup in hiring is widespread. The unemployment rate'". fell in 303 of the nation's 372 largest cities in March, the Labor Department said Wednesday. That's up from the more than the 287 cities that reported a drop the previous month and the best showing since September. The rate rose in 43 cities and was unchanged in 26.

http://www. postcrescent. com/article/20 11 0428/ APCO 1 01/1 04280537/Potential-buyer -shuttered-NewPage-mill-backsout?odyssey-tab[topnews[text[FRONTPAGE Potential buyer for Kimberly's NewPage mill backs out Kimberly 'in the dark' on paper mill's future KIMBERLY- An unnamed buyer who spent the past several months considering purchasing the former NewPage mill no longer is interested in the property. Village Administrator Rick Hermus said Wednesday the buyer backed out after a feasibility study determined the buyer's business plan did not support conversion of the machines in the mill. The buyer hoped to produce brown paper, a different grade from the high-quality paper that the NewPage mill produced.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/28/us/28unemployment.html? r=1 Most States Seen Raising Jobless Tax on Businesses By MICHAEL COOPER As persistently high unemployment has drained the funds that are used to pay jobless benefits, more than two-thirds of the states expect to raise taxes on businesses this year to replenish them, according to a survey of labor agencies released Wednesday. Unemployment taxes remain low by historical standards: the survey, by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies, found that states have effectively cut the unemployment tax rate on businesses by 64 percent since the unemployment program began collecting taxes from employers in 1938.

http://www. nytimes. com/20 11/04/29/business/economy/29econ. html? r= 1 &nl=todayshead lines&emc=tha2 &pagewanted= print U.S. Economic Growth Slows to 1.8% Rate in Quarter

29

By CATHERINE RAMPELL American economic expansion slowed to a crawl in the first quarter, but economists are hopeful that the setback will be temporary. Total output grew at an annual rate of 1.8 percent from January through March, the Commerce Department said Thursday, after expanding at a 3.1 percent pace in the fourth quarter of 2010. When the year began, economists expected a more robust growth rate of about 4 percent, only to be barraged by bad report after bad report, Turmoil in the Middle East led to higher oil prices, which had already been climbing because of increased demand in emerging markets like China. Housing sales dropped sbarply. Winter blizzards closed businesses and delayed construction, causing investments in nonresidential structures like office buildings to fall 21.7 percent from the previous quarter. Imports, which are subtracted from gross domestic product, surged. Military spending sank. Post-Crescent business editor

http://www. bloom berg .com/news/20 11-04-29/coffee-m ay-climb-another -40-on-frost-after -kraft-smucker -raised-prices. htm I Coffee May Rise 40% on Frost After Kraft, Smucker Raised Prices By Isis Almeida and Debarati Roy- Apr 29, 2011 Brazil, the world's biggest coffee grower, is facing the risk of frost after hail this month, raising the prospect of a 40 percent jump in bean costs after Kraft Foods Inc. and J.M. Smucker Co. already increased prices. The chance of frost in Brazil increased with the weakening of La Nina, a cooling of waters in the Pacific Ocean, Brazil's Somar Meteorologia said this week. Frost in 1994 damaged 35 percent of the crop by 1997, sending prices up 39 percent that year, according to Somar. Should cold weather damage trees this year, coffee may rise to a record $4.20 a pound, the median in a Bloomberg survey of 11 analysts, traders and investors.

http://dailyreporter. com/blog/20 11/04/28/weather -dampens-construction-activity/ Weather dampens construction activity Published: April28, 2011 Tags: Commerce Department, economy By JEANNINE AVERSA AP Economics Writer WASHINGTON (AP)- The economy slowed sharply in the first three months of the year as high gas prices cut into consumer spending, bad weather delayed construction projects and the federal government slashed defense spending by the most in six years. The Commerce Department said Thursday that the economy grew at a 1.8 percent annual rate in the January-March quarter. That was weaker than the 3.1 percent growth rate for the October-December quarter. And it was the worst showing since last spring when the European debt crisis slowed growth to a 1.7 percent pace.

http:i/badgerherald.com/news/2011/04/28/study midwest high-s.php Study: Midwest high-speed rail would create jobs, help economy Estimates say project Walker nixed would make 25-minute commute time to Milwaukee By Andrew Averill Thursday, April 28, 2011 8:12p.m. Updated Friday, April29, 2011 3:04:06 a.m. Although Gov. Scott Walker has been an opponent of Wisconsin's high-speed rail since before his tenure began, Democrats and train and environmental advocates held a conference Thursday to release a report on the Midwest rail project that predicted high job and economic impact in the region. Rep. Brett Hulsey, D-Madison, said the report, which studied the economic benefits of a train system in the Midwest, should have been released a year ago.

http://www.gazettextra.com/news/2011/apr/28/50-laid--teachers-may-get-reprieve/ Up to 50 laid-off teachers may get reprieve By FRANK SCHULTZ Thursday, April 28, 2011 JANESVILLE- About 50 of the 125 teachers who received layoff notices recently are likely to remain employed by the Janesville School District. Superintendent Karen Schulte said Wednesday that the school board's actions Tuesday night would allow her to keep some of the counselors, librarians, learning-support teachers and others who received the notices. Schulte said she doesn't yet know which teachers would be retained.

30


From: US HHS Intergovernmental Affairs (HHS/IGA) < [email protected]> Friday, April 29, 201110:08 AM Sent:

To: Subject:

US HHS Intergovernmental Affairs (HHS/IGA) Affordable Care Act Bulletin for April 29th

HealthCare.gov Take health care into your own hands

HHS Affordable Care Act Bulletin April 29th, 2011

r'

Dt\BLE A T

((! O/IC1_!!f.'i!P

Better Benefits, Better Heai!h.

~ Click here to access the new consumer focused Health Care Website. ~Check out 50 States/50 Stories to find out what's happening in your state and listen to stories

from people across the country that are benefitting from the new law! ~ Check out www.CuidadodeSalud.Gov the partner site of HealthCare.gov. ~ For more information on the new Affordable Care Act click here. ~ Get information on relief the Affordable Care Act can provide to you here. ~ Get the Facts Straight on Health Reform here. ~ Check out our archived web chats here. ~ New brochures about the Affordable Care Act are available here. ~How is the Affordable Care Act helping you? Share your story here.

Contents: I. Recent News

II. Recent Health care Blog Posts III. Webcasts & Videos IV. Fact Sheets V. Information for Your Community & You

VI. State By State Fact Sheets VII. Regulations & Guidance

14

VIII. Letters IX. Grants X. Brochures/Educational Materials

XI. Special Programs

Recent News

April 29: Administration Implements Affordable Care Act Provisions to Improve Care. Lower Costs

April 20: Secretaries Duncan and Sebelius launch outreach effort to help make graduating students aware of the new health coverage options under the Affordable Care Act

April 15: Statement by HHS Secretary regarding selected medical benefits report

April 14: New flexibility for states to improve Medicaid and implement innovative practices

April 12: Partnership for patients to improve care lower costs for Americans

April 11: Statement from Surgeon General. Dr. Regina Benjamin. on the Selection of Jeffrey Levi. Ph.D. as chair of the Advisory Group on Prevention. Health Promotion. and Integrative and Public Health

April 8: HHS Announces Plan to Reduce Health Disparities

April1: FDA Proposes New Menu and Vending Machine Labeling Requirements

Recent Health Care Blog Posts

April27: NoComparison. By Stephariie Cutter, Assistantto the President and Deputy Senior Adviso~

April25: Meeting the Needs of People with Autism. By Kathleen Sebelius, Secretazy of Health and Human Services

April 20: The Facts About the Independent Payment Advisory Board, By. Nancy-Ann DeParle, White House Deputy Chief of Staff

April 20: Health Insurance for Young Adults. Even After Graduation Day, By Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of Health and Human Services

April14: Repealing the 1099 Reporting Requirement: A Big Win for Small Business, By Administrator Karen Mills, Administrator of the Small Business Administration

April14: A Win-Win for States and for Our Lowest Income Seniors. by Melanie Bella, Director, Federal Coordinated Health Care Office, CMS

April14: Cultivating Opportunities in the Community. By Henry Claypool, Director of the Office on Disability

April12: Episcopal Church's Commission on Health Welcomes HHS Officials, By Mara Vanderslice, Acting Director and Senior Advisor of the Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships at the U.S. Department of Health & Human

15

April12: Building a Partnership for Patients. By Don Berwick, Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

April 8: Closing the Gaps in Health Disparities, By Dr. Garth Graham, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health

April6: Consumer Protections: Applying New Protections to Your Health Plan, By Karen Pollitz, Director for Consumer Support, Center for Consumer Information & Insurance Oversight

April 5: Consumer Protections: Patient's Bill of Rights, By Karen Pollitz, Director for CCIIO

Webcasts & Videos

April12: Secretary Sebelius Announces the Partnership for Patients: Better Care. Lower Costs

Fact Sheets

The fact sheets are condensed summaries of important provisions in the Affordable Care Act.

April 29, 2011

Administration Implements New HealthReforrn Provision to Improve Care Quality. Lower Costs

April14, 2011 HHS Approves New Jersey Plan to Expand Medicaid to Nearly 70.000 Uninsured Residents by 2013

April14, 2011

15 States Win Contracts to Develop New Ways to Coordinate Care for People with Medicare and

Medicaid

April14, 2011

Affordable Care Act Will Provide Help to States in Preparing for 2014 Medicaid Program Improvements

April12, 2011

Partnership for Patients: Better Care. Lower Costs

April1, 2011

Fact Sheet: Proposed Rules for Menu and Vending Machine Labeling Requirements

March 31, 2011

Accountable Care Organizations: Improving Care Coordination for People with Medicare

March 21, 2011

The Affordable Care Act and Benefits for American Indians and Alaska Natives

March 15, 2011

New Tools to Fight Fraud. Strengthen Medicare. and Protect Taxpayer Dollars

16

March 10, 2011

Preparing for Innovation: Proposed Process for States to Adopt Innovative Strategies to Meet the Goals

of the Affordable Care Act

February 24, 2011

Nearly $200 Million Available to Help States Fight Health Insurance Premium Increases

February 16, 2011

States Leading the Way on Implementation: HHS Awards "Early Innovator" Grants to Seven States

February 10,2011

Medicare Advantage & the Affordable Care Act

February 10, 2011

State by State Enrollment in the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan. as of February 1. 2011

February 9, 2011

The Affordable Care Act's Prevention and Public Health Fund in Your State

February 9, 2011

Building Healthier Communities by Investing in Prevention

February 9, 2011

Improving Health Insurance Protections for Students

January 25, 2011

The Affordable Care Act and LGBT Americans

January 24, 2011

New Tools to Fight Fraud. Strengthen Medicare and Protect Taxpayer Dollars

January 21, 2011

Donut Hole Checks Distributed. by State

January 21, 2011

New Medicare Benefits for 2011

January 20, 2011

Health Insurance Exchange Establishment Grants

January 4, 2011

The Price of Repealing the Affordable Care Act

December 21, 2010

Affordable Care Act Requires Insurance Companies to Iustify High Rate Hikes

December 20, 2010

17

The Health Benefits of Breastfeeding

December 16, 2010

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Enhance Efforts to Prevent and Fight Health Care Fraud

December 9, 2010

The Affordable Care Act: Increasing Transparency and Protecting Consumers

November 22, 2010

Medical Loss Ratio

November 17, 2010

Innovations for Better Health and Stronger Medicare

November 16, 2010

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation

November 16, 2010

Affordable Care Act for Americans with Disabilities

November 15, 2010

HealthCare.gov Insurance Finder Gets Better for Consumers

November 5, 2010

New Plan Options for Federally Administered Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan in 2011

November 5, 2010

State by State Enrollment in the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan. as of November 1. 2010

October 19,2010

Consumer Assistance Program Grants: Helping States Give Consumers Greater Control of their Health

Care

October 19,2010

Consumer Assistance Program Grants: How States Are Using New Resource to Give Consumers Greater

Control of their Health Care

October 4, 2010

The Affordable Care Act's Early Retiree Reinsurance Program

October 1, 2010

New Tools for Consumers- More Transparency in the Insurance Market New on www.HealthCare.gov:

Pricing and Benefits Information for Consumers

October 1, 2010

New: Pricing and Benefits Information for Consumers

18

September 23, 2010

Getting Benefits into the Hands of Consumers Progress to Date

September 23, 2010

Making Medicare Stronger: New Savings on Prescription Drugs For Medicare Beneficiaries From the

Affordable Care Act

September 23, 2010

A New Day for American Consumers

September 21, 2010

New Tools to Fight Fraud. Strengthen Medicare and Protect Taxpayer Dollars

September 21, 2010

New tools to fight Medicare fraud: CMS proposes new regulations to strengthen fraud prevention efforts

September 14, 2010

Affordable Care Act and Immunization

September 13, 2010

How Does the Affordable Care Act Impact People Living with HIV /AIDS?

August 16, 2010

New Resources to Help States Crack Down on Unreasonable Health Insurance Premium Hikes

August 6, 2010

Community Health Centers and the Affordable Care Act: Increasing Access to Affordable. Cost Effective.

High Quality Care

july 29, 2010

About the New Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan

july 29, 2010

Health Insurance Exchanges: State Planning and Establishment Grants

july 29, 2010

Exchange Planning Grants: Grant Awards List

july 21, 2010

Protecting Consumers and Putting Patients Back in Charge of Their Care

july 14, 2010

Benefits for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders of New Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding

Prevention Coverage

july 14, 2010

Benefits for African Americans of New Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding Prevention Coverage

19

july 14, 2010

Benefits for Latinos of New Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding Prevention Coverage

july 14, 2010

Benefits for Seniors of New Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding Prevention Coverage

july 14, 2010

Benefits for Women and Children of New Affordable Care Act Rules on Expanding Prevention Coverage

june 22, 2010

The Affordable Care Act's New Patient's Bill of Rights

june 18, 2010

Laying the Foundation for Prevention

june 16, 2010

Creating lobs and Increasing the Number of Primary Care Providers

june 14, 2010

Keeping the Health Plan You Have: The Affordable Care Act and "Grandfathered" Health Plans

Increasing Choice and Saving Money for Small Businesses

july 1, 2010

Temporary High Risk Pool Program

july 1, 2010

Establishing the Web Portal Called For in The Affordable Care Act

May 13,2010

New Tools to Fight Fraud

April20, 2010

Young Adults and the Affordable Care Act: Protecting Young Adults and Eliminating Burdens on

Families and Businesses

Learn the facts and statistics about how the Affordable Care Act will benefit each state.

Information for Your Community and You

American Families

Children

Young Adults

Early Retirees

Seniors 20

African Americans

Latinos

Rural Americans

Women

Small Businesses

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

Americans with Disabilities

LGBT Communities

Veterans

State By State Fact Sheets

Choose your state to learn more about the immediate benefits of the Affordable Care Act.

State By State Fact Sheets

Regulations & Guidance

Regulations and guidance are used to implement many of the Affordable Care Act provisions that address both private and public health insurance.

Medicaid-: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Federal Funding for Medicaid Eligibility Determination

and Enrollment Activities (Issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)

Medicaid- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Home and Community-Based Services Waivers (Issued

by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services)

Food Labeling- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Calorie Labeling of Articles of Food in Vending

Machines (Issued by the Food and Drug Administration)

Food Labeling- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Nutrition Labeling of Standard Menu Items in

Restaurants and Similar Retail Food Establishments (Issued by the Food and Drug Administration)

Progress Report on the Early Retiree Reinsurance Programhttp://cciio.cms.gov/resources/files/errp progress report 3 31 ll.pdf

Accountable Care Organizations- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Accountable Care Organizations

(Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

21

Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan Eligibility and Access to Other Creditable Coverage -Policy Letter #5 (Issued by the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

States Can Apply for Nearly $200 Million to Help Fight Health Premium Increases (Issued by the Centers

for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Affordable Care Act Supports States in Strengthening Community Living (Issued by the Centers for

Medicare & Medicaid Services)

HHS Announces $100 Million in Affordable Care Act Grants to Prevent Disease (Issued by the Centers

for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

CMS Releases Proposed Rule to Implement New Community First Choice Option Available to States

(Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

CMS Releases Proposed Rule to Implement Medicaid Payment Adjustments for Provider Preventable

Conditions (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

CMS Releases Proposed Rule to Implement Medicaid Payment Adjustments for Provider Preventable

Conditions (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Health Insurance Rate Review NPRM (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance

Oversight)

Supplemental Guidance on Consumer Notices on Waivers of the Annual Limits Requirements (Issued by

the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

Supplemental Guidance on Sale of New Business by Issuers Receiving Waivers (Issued by the Office of

Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

Medical Loss Ratio Regulation (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight).

View State MLR adjustment applications and public comments.

Initial Guidance to States on Exchanges (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance

Oversight)

Amendment to Regulation on "Grandfathered" Health Plans under the Affordable Care Act (Issued by

the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

Medicaid IT NPRM- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Federal Funding for Medicaid Eligibility

Determination and Enrollment Activities (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Medicaid RAC- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Medicaid Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC)

Program (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Regulation on Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and

Insurance Oversight)

22

Request for Comment on Health Insurance Exchanges (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information

and Insurance Oversight)

Regulation on Consumers' Right to Appeal Health Plan Decisions (Issued by the Office of Consumer

Information and Insurance Oversight)

Preventive Services: Regulations and Recommendations

Patient' sHill of Rights (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

Regulation on "Grandfathered" Health Plans under the Affordable Care Act (Issued by the Office of

Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight)

Dependent Coverage of Children Who Have Not Attained Age 26 (Issued by the Office of Consumer

Information and Insurance Oversight)

Early Retiree Reinsurance Program (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information and Insurance

Oversight)

Health Care Reform Insurance Web Portal Requirements (Issued by the Office of Consumer Information

and Insurance Oversight)

COBRA Continuation of Coverage (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Health Insurance Reform for Consumers (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Health Insurance Reform for Employers (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Self-Funded Nonfederal Governmental Plans (Issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is responsible for tax provisions of the Affordable Care Act that

will be implemented during the next several yeats. A list of these provisions now in effect, and

additional information soon to be added, can be found at www.irs.gov.

Letters

Administration officials issue letters requesting information, issuing guidance, announcing progress to date, and other implementation efforts.

Letter from Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius and Secretary of Education Arne

Duncan to University Presidents Regarding Health Insurance for Young Adults (April20, 2011)

Letter from Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius and Secretary of Education Arne

Duncan to Student Body Presidents Regarding Health Insurance for Young Adults (April 20, 2011)

Letter from the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight to Superintendent Kofman Regarding the State of Maine's Request for Adjustment to Medical Loss Ratio Standard (March 8, 2011)

23

Letter from Departments of Health and Human Services. Labor. and Treasury to House Speaker john

Boehner Regarding the Price of Repealing the Affordable Care Act (January 5, 2011)

Letter from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to Insurance Commissioners Regarding Notice of Proposed

Rulemaking on Rate Review (December 21, 2010)

Letter from Ca!PERS to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius Regarding the Affordable Care Act

Implementation (December 10, 2010)

Letter from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to Consumer Groups Regarding Supplemental Guidance on

Consumer Notices and Sale of New Business (December 9, 2010)

Cover memo to States from HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Exchange Guidance (November 18,

2010)

Cover Memo to States from OCIIO and CMS on IT for Exchanges and Medicaid (November 3, 2010)

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to JaneL. Cline Regarding Child-Only Policies (Oct. 13, 2010) http://www.hhs.gov/ociio/Documents/letter to j cline.pdf

Letter from Chairman Carter II to Secretary Sebelius Regarding How the IBEW Health & Welfare Trust

Fund Supports ERRP (September 30, 2010)

Letter from CEO Nancy Brown to Secretary Sebelius Regarding the American Heart Association's Support

for ERRP (September 30, 2010)

Letter from Mayor Cownie to Secretary Sebelius Regarding Des Moines. Iowa's Support for

ERRP(September 30, 2010).

Letter from Mayor Casheii Sr. to Secretary Sebelius Regarding Reno, Nevada's Support for ERRP

(September 30, 2010)

Letter from Mary Miller, Ass. Director of Human Resources, to Secretary Sebelius Regarding Olathe,

Kansas's Support for ERRP (September 30, 2010)

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to Member of Congress Regarding the Six Month Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (September 23, 2010)

24

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to the Honorable Ioseph R. Biden. Ir .. Submitting the Interagency Access to

Health Care in Alaska Task Force Report (September 17, 2010)

Letter from HHS Secretary Sebelius and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner to Sen. Harry Reid

Regarding Senate Amendments 4595 and 4596 (September 13, 2010) Persons using assistive technology

may not be able to fully access information in this file. For assistance, please email [email protected].

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to Governors. Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Americans with

Disabilities Act (July 26, 2010)

Rate Review letter from Secretary Sebelius to Governors and State Insurance Commissioners (June 7,

2010)

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to Hill Leadership outlining HHS's Progress on Implementation Efforts

(May 24, 2010)

State High Risk Pool cover letter from Iay Angoff. Director of the Office of Consumer Information and

Oversight (May 10, 2010)

Letter from Secretary Sebelius to NAIC urging the association to provide guidance by Iune 1 to allow for

timely implementation of the law (April12, 2010)

Grants

The Affordable Care Act creates a number of new grant opportunities. Below, you will find links to the grant centers for the agencies administering these grants. There, and at Grants.gov. you can search for relevant grant opportunities.

CDC National Public Health Improvement Initiative (NPHII) Grants

Consumer Assistance Program Grants- search for CFDA number 93.519

OCIIO State Planning and Establishment Grants- search for CFDA number 93.525.

OCIIO Health Insurance Premium Review Grants

Health Insurance Premium Review Grants

Administration for Children and Families Grants

Administration on Aging Grants

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality

25

Health Resources and Services Administration Grants

Indian Health Service Grants

National Institutes of Health Grants

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Grants

Brochures/Educational Materials

Below you'llfind brochures and materials related to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

New Benefits for Graduates and Young Adults (PDF- 206 KB)

Better Benefits. Better Health (PDF- 374 KB)

Better Benefits. Better Health for Women (PDF- 311 KB)

Better Benefits. Better Health for Young Adults (PDF- 193 KB)

Better Benefits. Better Health for Seniors (PDF- 128 KB)

Better Benefits. Better Health for Small Businesses (PDF- 160 KB)

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for You (PDF- English 2.78 MB. Spanish 2.59 MB)

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for Employers (PDF- English 916 KB, Spanish 963 KB)

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for Small Business (PDF- English 1.17MB, Spanish 1MB)

The New Health Care Law- What it Means for You and Your Family (PDF- English 899 KB, Spanish 833

KB)

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for Rural America (PDF- English 1.06MB. Spanish 833 KB)

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for Young Adults (PDF- English 971 KB. Spanish 879 KB)

Patient Protections & Insurance Reforms

Poster: Are You Eligible for the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan? (PDF- English 271 KB, Spanish

231 KB)

Newsletter Language for Partners: Use this toolkit to share information about the PCIP program with

your newspaper or newsletter readers.

Website Language for Partners: Use this toolkit to share information about the PCIP program with your

online readers.

The Affordable Care Act- What it Means for Those with Pre-Existing Conditions (PDF- English 354 KB,

Spanish 356 KB)

26

Medicare and the New Health Care Law- What it Means for You

Closing the Prescription Drug Coverage Gap

Special Programs

Several new programs across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services support the work of the Affordable Care Act. You will find information about these programs on this page.

Partnership for Patients: Better Care. Lower Costs

27



Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

~12:31PM

[email protected] letter to speaker

Governor- Here's a draft. I would envision sending to the Speaker and then tipping off press about it being sent.

Speaker DeLeo,

I wanted to take a minute to commend you for your leadership and willingness to put the people ahead of politics. Your House courageously voted to reform collective bargaining for healthcare so that local governments could see savings of $100 million. It's no surprise that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has extolled the virtues of the plan. As a result of your reforms, local governments will be able to avoid many layoffs and maintain core services.

Here, in Wisconsin, we reformed collective bargaining, not only for healthcare, but for pensions as well. As a result, state government will save over $300 million over the course of our next budget. Local governments, including schools districts, will realize savings of over $1 billion. As a result, Wisconsin will be able to avoid the massive layoffs we are seeing in other state and local governments across the nation. Our reforms also enabled us to introduce a budget that freezes property taxes and results in our lowest structural deficit in recorded history.

Sometimes doing the right thing is difficult politically over the short-term. However, I believe we were elected not to worry about the next election, but to worry about the next generation. The ref01ms we are seeing implemented around the nation make a commitment to our children and grandchildren. By making the hard decisions, we ensure that we are not simply passing on our problems to them.

Sincerely, Scott Walker


13



Good.

From: Schrimpf, Chris - GOV

Friday, April 29, 20111:21 PM Schrimpf, Chris - GOV Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Re: letter to speaker

Sent: Friday, April 29, 2011 12:31 PM To: Scott, Kevin - DOA Cc: Werwie, Cullen J - GOV Subject: letter to speaker

Governor- Here's a draft. I would envision sending to the Speaker and then tipping off press about it being sent.

Speaker DeLeo,

I wanted to take a minute to commend you for your leadership and willingness to put the people ahead of politics. Your House courageously voted to reform collective bargaining for healthcare so that local govermnents could see savings of $100 million. It's no surprise that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has extolled the virtues of the plan. As a result of your reforms, local govermnents will be able to avoid many layoffs and maintain core services.

Here, in Wisconsin, we reformed collective bargaining, not only for healthcare, but for pensions as well. As a result, state government will save over $300 million over the course of our next budget. Local governments, including schools districts, will realize savings of over $1 billion. As a result, Wisconsin will be able to avoid the massive layoffs we are seeing in other state and local governments across the nation. Our reforms also enabled us to introduce a budget that freezes property taxes and results in our lowest structural deficit in recorded history.

Sometimes doing the right thing is difficult politically over the short-term. However, I believe we were elected not to worry about the next election, but to worry about the next generation. The reforms we are seeing implemented around the nation make a commitment to our children and grandchildren. By making the hard decisions, we ensure that we are not simply passing on our problems to them.

Sincerely, Scott Walker


10

20120523143333208

Documents

buy cold medicine

overhead gallery

political

wall street

chief executive

highest tax

press release

carry concealed