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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Cracking down on fake emotional support, service animals among notable bills from May
While state budget negotiations happen in the background, Wisconsin lawmakers have been busy introducing dozens of bills, spanning from mental health care for college students to protecting endangered bees. Several hundred pieces of legislation are pitched each session, and only a fraction end up becoming law. Around 300 proposals have been introduced since lawmakers reconvened at the state Capitol in January. Here's a roundup of notable ones from May. Most haven't yet received public hearings, the first step on the path to becoming law. You can read our April roundup here. Republicans leading the bill say business and property owners have reported higher cases of emotional support and service animal misrepresentation, with owners using fake harnesses or vests. The bill would enshrine in law landlords' ability to ask tenants for documentation showing a prescription for an emotional support animal. Tenants who provide false documentation or health care providers who don't have a 30-day, established relationship with the patient could face a $500 fine. Under the bill, people who bring fake service animals in public places could face a $200 fine. The state Department of Workforce Development would be required to create signs for businesses that say "task-trained service animals are welcome" and misrepresenting a service animal is against state law. The bill "does not infringe on the federal protections under the Fair Housing Act or the Americans with Disabilities Act. It simply reinforces responsible and verifiable use of those protections in Wisconsin," lawmakers argue. Disability Rights Wisconsin didn't immediately have comment on the bill but is reviewing the proposal. Other states have moved to crack down on people passing off their pets as service animals. Authors: Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, R-Appleton; Rep. Paul Tittl, R-Manitowoc Lawmakers introduced a group of bills aimed at protecting pollinators. One would name the endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee the official state native insect. Another would create a "Protect Pollinators" license plate, generating revenue for the state's endangered species fund. While there are some Republican supporters, the bills have typically been sponsored by Democrats in past sessions and never made it far in the state Legislature. Bees, butterflies and other insects keep ecosystems thriving, and a whole week in mid-June is dedicated to pollinators. Authors: Sen. Jodi Habush Sinykin, D-Whitefish Bay; Sen. Chris Larson, D-Milwaukee; Rep. Deb Andraca, D-Whitefish Bay; Rep. Elijah Behnke, R-Chase; Rep. Lee Snodgrass; D-Appleton; Rep. Vincent Miresse, D-Stevens Point More: These Wisconsin specialty license plates were the most popular in 2024 This bill would require the University of Wisconsin System to contract with a vendor to provide virtual mental health services for students, beyond traditional business hours. Campuses have already utilized telehealth, lawmakers note. "Telehealth services have proven to be effective in shortening waiting times to see a provider, and allow patients to receive care at their convenience," bill authors wrote. The bill doesn't include any new funding. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers' budget proposal included $22 million for the UW System to support student mental health, including telehealth services and 57 new counselor positions. Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee removed several UW-related portions of Evers' budget at their first meeting, but didn't strike the mental health provisions. The budget will likely be signed later this summer, so it's not clear if mental health funding for UW will be in the final version. Authors: Sen. Jesse James, R-Thorp; Rep. Todd Novak, R-Dodgeville More: The state of mental health across Wisconsin's public universities in 4 charts In Wisconsin, each city, town or village sets its own early voting hours and locations, where voters can cast an absentee ballot in-person starting two weeks before Election Day. This bill would require municipalities to offer a minimum of 20 hours of early voting. Bill authors argue early voting access has become unequal between large cities and smaller towns. Milwaukee offered 10 sites for the November election, for example. But some election officials told VoteBeat it wouldn't make sense for communities with only a few dozen voters and limited clerk capacity. Supporters plan to propose funding in the budget to help smaller communities reach the 20-hour minimum. Authors: Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, R-Appleton; Sen. Steve Nass, R-Whitewater; Rep. Scott Krug, R-Rome More: Wisconsin early voting surges compared with the 2023 spring election This bipartisan proposal would require the state Department of Health Services to work with health care providers to develop informational materials on menopause and perimenopause, the transitional phase. Those handouts would include information like symptoms, treatments, when to consult a provider, the biological process and how to talk to friends and family. The bill is modeled after legislation in Pennsylvania, where public testimony highlighted the "difficulty women have in being heard and taken seriously discussing menopause and the issues that surround it," lawmakers said. Authors: Sen. Dianne Hesselbein, D-Middleton; Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, R-Appleton; Rep. Karen DeSanto, D-Baraboo This proposal could provide up to $2 million for a data sharing pilot program for police and sheriff's departments in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties. The grant would reduce siloed data between agencies, helping solve cases faster, bill authors argue. The bill was introduced May 12 and quickly received a hearing May 27 in the Senate. It has at least one Democratic cosponsor. The Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Association, which supports the bill, testified that the proposal would help agencies struggling with staffing. "While geographic boundaries may define our jurisdictions, the individuals committing crimes do not recognize or respect those lines," the association said. "Effective information sharing is essential to modern policing." Authors: Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine; Rep. Bob Donovan, R-Greenfield This bipartisan bill would allow funeral processions to use flashing purple lights. Current law allows flashing amber lights during the procession, but that can be ambiguous to divers, lawmakers argue. Bill authors point out purple is a symbol of mourning in many cultures and would be distinct from red and blue lights used by emergency vehicles. Wisconsin would join about a dozen other states that use purple lights for funeral processions, including North Carolina. Authors: Sen. Julian Bradley, R-New Berlin; Sen. Mark Spreitzer, D-Beloit; Rep. Dean Kaufert, R-Neenah Two lawmakers are leading a resolution that urges the "overdue induction" of Jack Vainisi into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Vainisi scouted and drafted 12 future Hall of Famers, from Bart Starr to Ray Nitschke, and played an important role in persuading the team to hire Vince Lombardi. He "may have had more influence on the Packers dynasty than any player or coach," lawmakers wrote. Resolutions are different than bills — they express the opinion of lawmakers but don't carry the force of state law. The Hall of Fame selection process is intense, with a 50-person selection committee and only a handful of new enshrinees each year. Authors: Sen. Andre Jacque, R-New Franken; Rep. Rob Kreibich, R-New Richmond This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Legislature's May bills include fake service animals
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Department of Workforce Development seeks Wisconsin employers who go above and beyond for veterans
(WLAX/WEUX) – The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is seeking Wisconsin employers who hire and retain veterans for the Vets Ready Employer Initiative. Vets Ready honors organizations across the state, while also helping employers attract and retain veteran talent. Applications are now open through July 18 of this year. 'Gov. Tony Evers announced this month that Wisconsin's workforce development services for the second consecutive year ranked 4th in the country for successfully helping veterans find employment. Through our Office of Veteran Employment Services, DWD is commitment to connecting veterans to employers and recognizing those employers who support our veterans,' said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. 'We encourage employers to take advantage of the skills that veteran employees bring to the workforce and apply for the Vets Ready award.' You can find the steps to apply below: Login to the Job Center of Wisconsin as an employer. Hover on the 'Employers' menu to get the sub-menu. Click on My Company Information. Click on Manage 'Vets Ready Employer Applications' to begin the application process. Learn more at the Vets Ready website and contact VetsReady@ or your local veterans employment representative with Vets Ready questions. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
02-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Over 100 employees to be laid off as college in northern Wisconsin closes in May, citing lack of attendance and high costs
ASHLAND, Wis. (WFRV) – A small liberal arts school in northern Wisconsin announced that it will officially close, likely for good, after the end of the school year, citing attendance drops and high costs. According to the Department of Workforce Development, Northland College's closure is expected to be permanent as of May 31. With a few exceptions, all employees will be impacted. Draft City Music Fest reveals schedule for Wednesday & Saturday at Leicht Park, De La Soul & Less Than Jake to headline 112 employees will be laid off as a result of the closure. Northland College, founded in 1892, originally announced the news in February, citing financial jeopardy that has been problematic since March 2024. 'Despite collaborative efforts, we no longer have the resources needed to navigate economic and demographic storms endangering small, liberal arts institutions today,' Board of Trustees Chair Ted Bristol said via a release. Bristol also cited declining enrollment in the February release. Four finalists named for UW-Oshkosh chancellor position 'With declining enrollment and soaring costs, it takes more to operate the College than we raise in tuition,' Bristol said via the release. 'Even after enacting aggressive measures to cut costs and raise revenues, Northland College has no sustainable path forward.' Bumping rights will not be available for any impacted employees. Interim President Barb Lundberg said that the official closure will be May 31. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bacardi Launches Hospitality Accelerator Program To Elevate Bermuda's Hospitality Professionals
Bacardi Empowers Industry Talent with World-Class Training and Career Development Opportunities HAMILTON, BM / / February 28, 2025 / Family-owned Bacardi, proudly announces the launch of its Hospitality Accelerator Program, an advanced training initiative designed to elevate industry professionals and strengthen Bermuda's hospitality sector. In collaboration with the Bermuda Government's Department of Workforce Development, Bacardi is introducing this next-level program tailored for bartenders already working in the industry, further reinforcing career development and industry growth. These enhancements stem from valuable feedback from industry partners, who recognized the opportunity to upskill existing bartenders and create stronger career pathways within their establishments. After two successful cohorts of the Shake Your Future program, a free professional bartender training program for underemployed and unemployed young adults created by Bacardi, the company is evolving its commitment to developing hospitality talent in Bermuda. For the first time, six leading hospitality establishments have partnered with Bacardi to support this year's cohort. Bartenders currently employed with Rock and Barrel, Grotto Bay, Hamilton Princess, the IRG Group, St. Regis, and The Loren have been nominated by their employers to participate in the program, reinforcing a commitment to developing in-house talent. On February 27, the selected participants will travel to London to attend the prestigious European Bartender School, where they will embark on an intensive six-week training program. The curriculum includes four weeks of advanced spirits education and mixology training, followed by two weeks of professional development workshops. Graduates will earn an internationally recognized diploma, equipping them with world-class expertise and leadership skills, positioning them as future leaders in Bermuda's hospitality industry. "The introduction of the Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program strengthens career pathways and ensures that participants receive world-class training while maintaining ties with their employers," said Douglas Mello, Bacardi Limited Managing Director. "By investing in our talent and collaborating directly with hospitality leaders, we are enhancing Bermuda's service industry and creating more opportunities for long-term professional growth." With Bermuda's hospitality industry anticipating an increase in demand for bartenders due to upcoming hotel openings, the Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program plays a critical role in addressing workforce shortages. The November 2023 Labour Force Survey Report highlights persistent unemployment challenges for young Bermudians, reinforcing the need for accessible, skill-based training programs. As Bermudians seek career advancement opportunities, Bacardi and the Department of Workforce Development are equipping young Bermudians with in-demand hospitality skills-enhancing their long-term employability in a competitive job market. "The Bacardi Hospitality Accelerator Program offers transformative opportunities, equipping Bermudians with world-class training in mixology, customer engagement, and bar management to advance their careers in the hospitality sector. This enhanced, employer-led approach ensures that participants gain internationally recognized certifications and secure real-world experience through structured employment commitments. Our ongoing collaboration with Bacardi highlights the strength of public-private partnerships and reinforces the Government's commitment to developing Bermuda's hospitality workforce and creating sustainable career opportunities," said the Minister of Economy and Labour, Jason Hayward, JP, MP About Bacardi Limited Bacardi Limited, the world's largest privately held international spirits company, produces, markets, and distributes spirits and wines. The Bacardi Limited portfolio comprises more than 200 brands and labels, including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR'S® Blended Scotch whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, MARTINI® vermouth and sparkling wines, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, and other leading and emerging brands including WILLIAM LAWSON'S® Scotch whisky, D'USSÉ® Cognac, ANGEL'S ENVY® American straight whiskey, and ST-GERMAIN® elderflower liqueur. Founded more than 163 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bacardi-Martini, Inc. on Contact Info:Spokesperson: Bacardi-Martini, info@ SOURCE: Bacardi-Martini, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Braun signs executive orders to squelch unemployment fraud, help job-seekers
Gov. Mike Braun signs a pair of executive orders dealing with unemployment insurance in his Statehouse office on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. (Leslie Bonilla Muñiz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) Indiana Gov. Mike Braun on Thursday sought to remind Hoosiers that the state's unemployment system provides only temporary help as he signed executive orders to step up anti-fraud efforts and work-search requirements. 'Our state is one that believes in the dignity and importance of work,' he told reporters assembled in his Statehouse office. 'Unemployment insurance is an important temporary safety net, but it should be exactly that: temporary assistance while searching for a new job.' Indiana workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own can claim unemployment insurance for up to 26 weeks, as long as they complete two 'work search activities' weekly. Claimants get paid about 47% of their pre-layoff income, up to a statutory cap of $390 per week. It's funded by employer contributions. The executive order directs the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) 'to take all necessary steps to require recipients, when appropriate, to conduct additional, diligent and meaningful work search activities each week.' The program paid out about $285 million annually, on average, in the five years between 2015 and 2019, according to a 2021 DWD slide deck. Payouts totaled $6.7 billion in 2020 and were estimated at $4.5 billion in 2021 — the large jump was due to the pandemic. The agency didn't immediately respond to a request for recent data. CONTACT US Braun said Indiana had paid out about $55 million in fraudulent claims over the last three years — money that Governor's Office spokeswoman Molly Craft said the state was working on recovering. 'We want to protect the integrity of our unemployment program and the taxpayer dollars that fund it by requiring greater accountability,' Braun intoned. His freshly inked executive order requires the department to verify applicant eligibility using state and federal new hire directories, plus cross-check eligibility with data in state and federal incarceration records, state death records and the multi-state Integrity Data Hub. It also directs the department to further investigate when multiple claims are filed from the same device using a similar mailing address or bank account, and to double-check claims from out-of-state applicants before approving and paying them out. The department must send Braun written progress reports every quarter. Braun acknowledged that Indiana suffers less fraud than others, but aimed to be 'the best.' Department of Workforce Development Chief of Staff Joshua Richardson told a legislative committee last month that Indiana is fourth-best for improper payments. 'I think most states are in the unenviable position of having a lot more issues than we do,' Braun told reporters. 'This is to make sure we don't slide in that direction.' He said the money saved in improper payments would outweigh the costs associated with the data checks. 'It would be very little in comparison … That's $15-20 million per year, and it'll be a small cost for any technology we need to use compared to the benefits,' he said. Braun said he hoped to 'promote a culture of work' through his other executive order. It commands the Department of Workforce Development to reach out to applicants within a week of enrollment and make recipients complete more, and more 'meaningful' work search activities. 'In the modern economy, everyone's job search looks a little different,' Braun said. 'DWD will now move away from one-size-fits-all solutions and instead take steps to enable individualized job search plans and goals, and then to hold individuals accountable to those plans.' The order additionally directs the department to review which states do best at reemployment and study their best practices for initial contact with applicants, reemployment plans, job search activities and more. And the department must ratchet up its routine audits of work search activities and focus on those most likely to exhaust benefits — by evaluating the 'common factors' that lead recipients to collect 14 or more weeks of vouchers and that lead the same recipients to seek benefits multiple times within a four-year window. Indiana lawmakers contemplate slashing unemployment insurance timespan 'This executive order also identifies unemployment recipients who are at the highest risk of exhausting their benefits and tailors reemployment services to support them in finding work,' Braun said. 'We want to turn the 'safety net' into a springboard to gain full employment.' That 14-week window appeared in now-dead legislation filed this session. Senate Bill 123 would've slashed the 26-week maximum to 14 weeks, but offer a two-week extension if claimants are making progress in an approved job training program and are actively job-hunting. It got a committee hearing — featuring bipartisan criticism — but didn't get a vote. The department's Richardson told the committee that Indiana's unemployment insurance system already serves a smaller share of unemployed people than other states — theorizing it's the high eligibility standards or just that Hoosiers choose not to apply — and said the low pay encourages claimants to get back to work quickly. Richardson also said the fund that pays out claims is healthy, leading lawmakers to question why the legislation was necessary. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
