DOYLE GAMING COMPACTS MAY BE UNCONSTITUTIONAL ACCORDING TO NON-PARTISAN LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Lawmakers ask for Immediate Suspension of Federal Approval Process

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 26, 2003
CONTACT: SPEAKER GARD
608-266-2402
SENATOR PANZER
608-266-7513

MADISON. . .An Indian gaming compact negotiated by Governor Jim Doyle likely violates both state statutes and the Wisconsin Constitution, according to the non-partisan Legislative Council. In a memo released today, senior attorneys from the Legislative Council highlighted four different areas of state law that the Governor may have violated with the Indian gaming compact he has negotiated with the Potawatomi tribe this February.

Legislative leaders responded to the Legislative Council's memo by requesting US Secretary of the Interior, Gail Norton, to instruct the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to suspend consideration of the Potawatomi compact until the legal issues raised by the Legislative Council can be resolved.

"We've already seen that the Governor's breakneck pace on these compacts has circumvented all public input and legislative oversight," said Assembly Speaker John Gard (R-Peshtigo). "Now it appears that his hasty action may have also circumvented state law and the Wisconsin Constitution. I think it's time to call a time out and make sure that these compacts have all their legal ducks in a row."

The non-partisan Legislative Council noted four areas in which the proposed compact would be open to legal challenge:

The compact impermissibly expands the scope of gaming – "The compact clearly authorizes the tribe to conduct games that are now prohibited by the state - it can be argued that the scope of gaming originally authorized may not be expanded because of the intervening constitutional and statutory amendments."

The compact makes an illegal appropriation of state funds – "A compact may not make an appropriation of funds received by the state from the tribe. Only the Legislature, through passage of a bill, may make an appropriation."

The compact waives the state's sovereign immunity in violation of the Wisconsin Constitution – "...the Governor did not have explicit authority to agree to the provisions in the compact allowing suit against the state because the Legislature had not directed that such a suit may be brought under art. IV, s. 27. Whether there was sufficiently implied authorization by the Legislature may be debated, but, in general courts have required explicit legislative authorization."

The compact violates the separation of powers doctrine – "The question to be resolved is whether the action of the Governor in agreeing to a compact that might not be terminated unduly burdens or substantially interferes with the Legislature's constitutional authority."

"The issues raised by the Legislative Council are cause for great concern," said Senate Majority Leader Mary Panzer (R-West Bend). "I would hope that the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs would withhold any action on the proposed Potawatomi compact until these legal questions are definitively resolved."
 

For immediate release: March 25, 2003
Information: Senator Dale Schultz 800.978.8008, Senator Ron Brown 877.763.6636

OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNOR JIM DOYLE

Dear Governor Doyle,

Your budget proposal eliminates funding for annual state aid to county and district fairs throughout the state. That aid supports premiums for youth who show animals and agricultural products at the fairs.

We have concerns regarding this proposal, because we view state aids to county fairs as a key to Wisconsin's agricultural future. County fairs help rural youth unlock the interest, knowledge and skills it takes to succeed in agriculture. Ag-related activities at our county fairs are a cost-effective and essential training ground to developing our next generation of farmers.

The agricultural activity at county fairs serves another important role. It helps educate the large number of Wisconsin residents who do not farm, but whose livelihood depends on our state's agricultural industry. It also helps educate consumers who benefit from a safe and plentiful food supply.

Across rural Wisconsin, students are enrolled in high school agriculture classes. Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters thrive with 16,000 members. Over 2,000 4-H clubs in our state help give a strong agricultural background to thousands of youth. Kids in 4-H learn to compete and cooperate, and that builds character. FFA develops potential for leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

County fairs are part of Wisconsin's agricultural future, not irrelevant activities belonging to farming history. Agriculture will thrive to the extent we develop our next generation of farmers through activities like those our county fairs provide.

County fairs are a showcase of pride in learning and accomplishment for all things agricultural. Every year we go to see the exhibits because we are sure to find more than one of our friends and neighbors "showing" at the fair.

Fairs are about families. We know this from visits to homes that display fair ribbons and trophies won over generations. Families know it's important to recognize the hard work and dedication required to be successful in agriculture. Families and neighbors join together to bring the pride and product of rural Wisconsin to the county fair for friends, neighbors and visitors to appreciate.

You propose to eliminate a small but meaningful reward for youth who take part in county fair agricultural activities. Attendance, and revenues, at many fairs will drop as fewer families participate in agricultural activities. Fewer fair-goers mean less economic benefits to the communities that host a fair.

Farm families and rural communities cannot immediately afford to absorb the complete loss of state fair aids. While all programs must be considered as we look to solve the state's massive budget deficit, complete elimination of county fair aids without providing communities an opportunity to seek other funding, could end a century-long tradition that gives thousands of youth encouragement, a drive to excel and a motivation to pursue a career in agriculture.

As we work together to achieve a balanced state budget without tax increases, we ask you to join us in finding a way to continue funding some level of county fair aids so that we can continue to develop our next generation of successful agricultural producers.

With kindest regards,

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 24, 2003

For Further Information Contact:
Rep. Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem)
(608) 266-0631 or (608) 786-3512
1-888-534-0094

HUEBSCH TO GOV: LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK
COORDINATED CAMPAIGN DESIGNED TO KEEP PUBLIC OUT OF BUDGET DEBATE

West Salem – An internal memo at the Department of Workforce Development proves Governor Doyle is trying to stack public hearings on the budget with cronies, donors and partisans. The memo, titled "W-2 Special Projects," obtained by Representative Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) shows a coordinated campaign by Doyle's administration to load public hearings with liberal groups to support his shaky budget plan. Huebsch says Doyle is taking valuable time away from real Wisconsin folks.

"It's a shame the governor has stopped listening to the people and only seems to pay attention to his donors," Huebsch said, "People drive for hours to attend those meetings so their voice can be heard. I'm disappointed and saddened that the governor doesn't respect them and may fear what they might have to say."

The memo outlines a plan to have Democratic Party members circulate sample "letters to the editor" to newspapers on W-2 changes in the budget. The letters are to be sent to Democratic Party worker Rich Judge and then sent to Democratic party members. Huebsch wonders if by using state resources to organize the actions of Democrat party groups, the Doyle administration is violating state ethics and campaign finance law. He said that the appearance of impropriety alone should be cause for concern.

The memo also outlines organizing special interest groups loyal to Doyle to testify at the public hearings –groups which heavily contributed to the Governor's campaign. Huebsch says the coordinated campaign shows the governor's plan can't stand on its own merits.

"The Governor's had his chance to spin his budget for the past five weeks and we've been hearing from his secretaries for the last two weeks—he needs to let the public speak for a change," Huebsch said, "The reason we hold public hearings is so we can hear from the PUBLIC and find out how this budget affects them. First the governor wants us to rush his budget through the process, now he wants to stack the committee. That should have everyone asking 'What's he trying to hide?'"

The first public hearing for the budget is scheduled for Monday, March 24 in Rhinelander.
 

RHOADES BACKS ENHANCED 911 SERVICE FOR CELL PHONE USERS

For Immediate Release – March 24, 2003
Contact: Rep. Kitty Rhoades 1-888-529-0030

Madison, Wis. – To remedy a significant void in the emergency response system, Representative Kitty Rhoades (Hudson) this week voted for a bill to help rescuers pinpoint the location of citizens using their cell phone to call 911.

"There have been tragic instances of victims who are injured or attacked that call 911 on their cell phone, and have waited for hours or even died because emergency rescuers could not find them," Rhoades confirmed. "This bill provides a much-needed solution to this terrible problem."

The federal government mandated the upgrades by the end of 2005 without providing the funds needed to do the job. Forty-two other states have already begun the improvements to their 911 systems.

Assembly Bill 61 creates one enhanced 911 answering point per county. The Public Service Commission will closely monitor and reimburse local governments and phone companies for their costs by establishing a new fee on cell phone bills to help upgrade the system. The fee will discontinue after 3 years.

"Cell phones are so common that I wouldn't be surprised if they soon outnumbered traditional land lines. People who use cell phones should have the same protections as wired users," Rhoades stated. "The rapid deployment of these upgrades will save lives," she continued.

Assembly Bill 61 was approved on a bipartisan 67-31 vote, and will now go to the Senate.
 

For more information, contact: State Representative Sheryl Albers
P.O. Box 8952
Madison, WI 53708
(608) 266-8531
March 21, 2003 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 21, 2003
For Further Information Contact:
Campbell Town Chair Dan Kapanke
(608) 792-1897
Rep. Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem)
(608) 386-7926

CAMPBELL BILL GETS HEARING
RESIDENTS PLAN TRIP TO MADISON

Campbell – Residents in the Town of Campbell will get a chance to make their case for determining their own destiny. The State Assembly's Rural Affairs Committee is planning a public hearing for April 10, 2003 on Assembly Bill 85. The bill authored by Representative Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) would allow the residents of Campbell to vote for whether or not the community should incorporate into a village. Huebsch says he has a petition with 1,800 signatures supporting the bill.

"I've heard from hundreds of residents of the town of Campbell that they just want the chance to determine their own future," Huebsch said, "I'm very excited that we are getting closer to making that vote a reality."

The city of La Crosse's "comprehensive plan" calls for the complete swallowing up of the town of Campbell – a plan that no one in Campbell has had a say in. The town of Campbell is one of the few Wisconsin communities completely contained on an island. That unique situation limits its ability to grow and develop. If Campbell decides to incorporate, the community would be able to create TIF districts for development and stabilize its tax base by securing its borders. Town of Campbell Chairman Dan Kapanke says his community will be ready for the public hearing.

"I look forward to making our case to the Rural Affairs Committee," Kapanke said, "I plan on bringing lots of my neighbors from the town of Campbell so the committee members will hear from the people who will truly be affected by this important bill."

The Rural Affairs committee is chaired by Representative Gene Hahn (R-Cambria). The Rural Affairs Committee hearing is scheduled for 10:00am on Thursday, April 10, 2003 in the North Hearing Room in the State Capitol in Madison.
 

RHOADES WANTS ANSWERS ON HUDSON CASINO

For Immediate Release – March 20, 2003
Contact: Rep. Kitty Rhoades 1-888-529-0030

Madison, Wis. – In response to Secretary Marc Marotta's nonspecific comments regarding the administration's position on off-reservation gaming, Representative Kitty Rhoades (Hudson) submitted a letter to the Governor asking him to clarify his position.

"The fight over the future of the Hudson dog track divided the city for over a decade. Many citizens are concerned about the prospect of it being sold and converted to a casino. We deserve to know Governor Doyle's position on this critical issue," Rhoades declared.

Governor Doyle recently announced new tribal gaming compacts, but many of the details are still unknown to the public. Secretary Marotta stated before the Joint Finance Committee this week that the administration has yet to consider the issue of expanding gaming to off-reservation sites. Additionally, Secretary Marotta was unable to define for the committee what kind of public input would be requested.

"Is the public going to have a say in this divisive issue, or will the governor just release a compact that determines our future?" Rhoades asked. "I find it hard to believe that an issue as significant as off-reservation gaming was not addressed in the compact negotiations. We need answers: Does the administration support a casino at the location of the former dog track in Hudson?"
 

For Immediate Release For More Information, Contact:
Wednesday, March 19, 2003 Katie Mnuk: (608) 266-8546

Brown Grades Doyle's Homeland Security Council "Incomplete"
Council Lacks Representation from Local Governments and Fire Services

(Madison) In a letter today, Senator Brown applauded Governor Doyle's creation of the Homeland Security Council, but expressed concern that it failed to incorporate the perspective of the majority of first responders. The council lacks representation from local units of government and the fire services. Doyle this week announced the creation of a Governor's Homeland Security Council to coordinate Wisconsin's efforts to prevent and respond to potential terrorist attacks.

"Missing valuable input from local units of government and representatives from the fire services handicaps the Council's ability to develop response strategies," Senator Brown wrote. "As a former fire chief, I can assure you that coordinating the efforts of state and local agencies by including only state officials at the table will not work. If the goal is to coordinate efforts, the perspectives and experience of local governments must be involved."

The Council is also charged with making recommendations to the Governor and local governments on the additional steps needed to further enhance Wisconsin's homeland security.

"To think officials at the state level have all the answers in enhancing Wisconsin's homeland security is shortsighted," Brown commented. "In order to keep Wisconsin safe, we must have the insight of the people who have been keeping our communities safe since well before 9/11-local fire responders."

The Council has also been directed to coordinate law enforcement and intelligence gathering efforts of local and state agencies. The membership of the Council, which is skewed towards law enforcement, exemplifies how the fire services take a back seat at the state level.

"Ensuring that intelligence information gets to all people on the front line is crucial, regardless of what the pecking order may be at the state level," Brown asserted. "Failing to recognize that the fire services also need information to appropriately respond cripples the council's ability to design effective response strategies. To truly enhance homeland security in Wisconsin, fire services need a voice at the state level."

Senator Brown urged Governor Doyle to enhance the membership of the Governor's Homeland Security Council by including the valuable insight of first responders, to ensure Wisconsin's homeland security.
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2003
For Further Information Contact:
Rep. Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem)
(608) 266-0631 or (608) 786-3512
1-888-534-0094

GOVERNOR SHOULD LISTEN TO PEOPLE, NOT DONORS

West Salem - Governor Jim Doyle should start listening to the people of Wisconsin and work with the Legislature to approve a bill to give the people a voice in gaming compacts according to Representative Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem). A recent Badger Poll conducted by the University of Wisconsin Survey Center, nearly 70% of state residents feel the legislature should have a role in the compacts. Huebsch says the people have spoken and Doyle should listen.

"It's very clear the people of Wisconsin support legislative oversight," Huebsch said, "It's also clear that Attorney General Doyle supported legislative oversight-I believe Governor Doyle should listen to both of them and return the voice of the people of Wisconsin to the compact negotiations."

The Wisconsin State-Journal reported on February 20, 2003 that Native American Tribes donated more than $700,000 in soft money to Doyle and state Democrats before last fall's election.

"The tribes rolled the dice with their campaign donations and apparently came up winners with this governor," Huebsch said.

The campaign donations also seemed to reflect a change in Doyle's opinion on gaming. As attorney general, Jim Doyle repeatedly stated the Legislature should have a role in negotiating compacts.

Doyle said Wisconsin is the only state that allows only the governor and not governor and Legislature to negotiate gaming compacts with tribes. Doyle said allowing Thompson alone to negotiate the compacts was a mistake. Members of the Legislature, as representatives of citizens, should reclaim the power to ratify or negotiate gaming compacts, he said.

-Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, December 17, 1996

"The legislature should have the same power that the tribes have," Huebsch said, "Their negotiators hammer out a deal with the governor and then they take it back to their tribal leaders and members for a vote, that's all we asking for. The people of Wisconsin through their elected officials should have the same oversight on the gaming compacts that the tribe currently enjoy."
 

For more information on this issue or any other legislative issue feel free to contact Representative Suder at (888)534-0069. You can also keep up with Rep. Suder on line at www.legis.state.wi.us/assembly/asm69/news/index.htm.

March 13, 2003
A Statement by State Senator Sheila Harsdorf

Harsdorf Statement on Increasing Meth Possession Penalites

Senate Bill 4, authored by State Senator Sheila Harsdorf (R - River Falls), passed the State Senate today by a voice vote. The legislation would make the possession of meth a felony.

"I am pleased that the State Senate took quick action to reinstate felony penalties for possession of methaphetmine. Local law enforcement in Northwestern Wisconsin is facing significant challenges in combating the exploding use of meth, driven in large part by our proximity to Minnesota. This will serve as a tool critically needed now to put a lid on meth proliferation."
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 13, 2003
For Further Information Contact:
Rep. Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem)
(608) 266-0631 or (608) 786-3512
1-888-534-0094

PROTECTING YOUR VOTE
ASSEMBLY APPROVES VOTING REFORMS

West Salem – Assembly Republicans are protecting Wisconsin voters. On Thursday, the State Assembly passed a common-sense election reform measure requiring a photo identification to obtain a ballot. Representative Mike Huebsch (R-West Salem) says Assembly Republicans are making it easier to vote and harder to cheat.

"In the last presidential election there were a lot of shenanigans by people trying to steal away the constitutional rights of the people," Huebsch said, "Republicans are trying to make sure Wisconsin keeps its tradition of fair and honest elections. I am sorry the Democrats tried to derail this reform. I am proud we were able to finally overcome their obstruction and pass this bill."

Thursday's vote marked the fifth time in two years the Assembly has tried to stop voter fraud with a bill which requires voters to show a photo id before obtaining a ballot. Even though most people can hardly cash a check without a photo i.d., Assembly Democrats worked repeatedly to block the bill. Huebsch says voters agree with this reform.

"Most people expect to have to show some sort of id when they go to vote, they are shocked when they don't need it," Huebsch says, "Our constitution is based on one person, one vote. Without this reform, the integrity of our elections is in jeopardy."

Assembly Bill 111 passed on a bipartisan vote of 60-34. It now heads to the State Senate for further action.
 

March 13, 2003

The Honorable John Gard
Speaker
Wisconsin Assembly
211 West, State Capitol
Madison, WI 53708

Dear Speaker Gard:

As you know, I have long been a proponent of greater respect and greater recognition of the value of Native Americans to Wisconsin's economy and culture. I have even proposed legislation requiring that Native American members be included as non-voting members of the legislature.

As such, I was extremely offended by statements made on the floor of the Assembly yesterday. In challenging the cost estimate forwarded by the Co-Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance, the Representative from the 46th District said, "It reminds me of Tonto and Lone Ranger. And when Tonto said, 'you speak with forked tongue.' To me, this just doesn't make sense, this just isn't reality to say this isn't going to cost any money."

These comments incorporate racist and inappropriate stereotypes of Native Americans. They would be highly offensive at any time. They were especially offensive, however, on a day when we spent a good deal of the day debating issues directly impacting Wisconsin's Native American tribes and many Native American citizens were in our gallery.

As Speaker, you have the responsibility under Assmebly Rule 26 to ensure decorum in our Assembly debate. Under Assembly Rule 3m(1)(c) and (f), you have the authority to restrain members who violate the rules of decorum. I feel strongly that ethnic slurs of the kind made by the Representative from the 46th yesterday violate those rules of decorum. I would urge you in the future to promptly exercise your authority in these matters, gavel down the offending member, and restore proper conduct to our deliberations.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Terry Musser
State Representative

cc: Speaker Pro Tem Steve Freese
 

For Immediate Release: March 10, 2003
Information: Dale Schultz 800.978.8008, Ron Brown 877.763.6636

Schultz and Brown: More Federal Assistance Needed

Madison.... Wisconsin needs more federal funding to cover health care expenses for our seniors and low-income residents, say state Senators Dale Schultz and Ron Brown. Governor Doyle's budget depends on receiving over $400 million in additional federal medical assistance funds. State law requires the state to have a balanced budget, with no deficit. If the federal funds don't come through, Doyle's budget would not comply with state law.

"We are committed to assist the health care needs in our communities," said Brown (R-Eau Claire). "However, without additional federal funding, our state budget cannot keep up with the needs of persons with disabilities, children and low-income nursing home residents and others eligible for medical assistance programs."

"This is an issue where all the members of Congress from Wisconsin should fight for us," said Schultz (R-Richland Center). "We have two U.S. Senators and eight Representatives in the House, and they must be united on this. Under Governor Tommy Thompson, Wisconsin partnered with the federal government and began many innovative human services that worked well and saved many millions of tax dollars at the federal and state level. Wisconsin now has a big budget deficit and we need these federal funds."

"The federal government requires the states to provide medical assistance programs, but the high cost is a burden for state taxpayers," Brown said. "Additional federal dollars, known as Intergovernmental Transfer, or "IGT" funds, would make it possible to meet the needs of some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. We support an interpretation of federal law that allows Wisconsin to increase its Medicaid claim by over $400 million for a two year period."

"If this plan doesn't work, and some question it, we'll have a $400 million hole to fill in the budget," said Schultz. "This is not a partisan issue. As a society, our first priority is caring for the needs of those in the dawn of life, the dusk of life and the shadows of life. Care for our most vulnerable community members is my top priority."

Brown and Schultz both signed onto a letter from several state legislators asking for a fair share of federal Medical Assistance dollars. "The IGT proposal will help provide more cost-effective and humane choices for citizens who would rather live in their homes than in institutions," according to the letter to Thomas Scully, Director of the federal center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The letter also states: "Wisconsin taxpayers are frustrated that we do not receive a greater return on the tax dollars we send to Washington D.C."
 

State Senator Ron Brown (31st Senate District) reiterates his heartfelt thanks to Cliff Kutzner, Advisor to the Clark County Teen Age Republicans (TARs), for all of their hard work during his recent campaign that successfully unseated long-time incumbent Rod Moen. Kutzner and Senator Brown attended the historic Pepin County Lincoln Day Dinner where Kutzner presented on the TARs and Senator Brown was the keynote speaker. A TAR organization is being considered in Pepin County, and the group has received much inspiration and information from the Clark County club members.

Submitted by:
Cliff Kutzner
Advisor
Clark County Teen Age Republicans
N3794 River Avenue
Neillsville, WI 54456
715-743-3997
kutzner@tds.net
 

For Immediate Release
March 8, 2003

La Crosse Republican Party Reacts to Democrat Statements

LA CROSSE - Today the La Crosse Republican Party reacted to recent statements by Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Congressman Ron Kind (D-La Crosse) regarding foreign policy and the war on terror. In a statement issued Thursday, Senator Feingold commented, "In the absence of an imminent threat from Iraq, it makes little sense to insist upon military action now." La Crosse Republican Party Vice-Chair Chris Muller responded by saying, "I bet Saddam Huessein wishes that Senator Feingold were president of the United States right now! Imagine if we had taken that same position with Hitler. After all, there were no German troops threatening our land in the '40s. It just goes to show the striking differences between modern Democrat and Republican policies during times of war: Democrats try to spin the issues and appease our enemies while Republicans stand up for American principles and fight to defend them."

Responding to comments from Congressman Kind heard on La Crosse radio station 1410 AM that President Bush should seek world opinion Mr. Muller stated, "President Bush took an oath of office swearing that he would 'protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic' and that is exactly what he is doing. He did not take an oath of allegiance to the United Nations or to any other world power. His job is to represent the United States and I know the congressman took a similar oath so my question is, when will Congressman Kind stop pandering to foreign interests and start showing some concern for the security of the United States of America?"

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For more information:
Chris Muller, 608-781-2441, mullman@centurytel.net

For more information on the La Crosse Republican Party:
http://www.lcrp.net
 

For more information, contact: State Representative Sheryl Albers
P.O. Box 8952
Madison, WI 53708
(608) 266-8531
March 7, 2003 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Albers Signs On To Protect Wisconsin Taxpayers
Bill Would Place Limits On Out Of Control Property Taxes

State Capitol - Rep. Sheryl Albers (R - Reedsburg) signed on this week to a bill that would control escalating property values and bring true property tax relief to Wisconsin residents. "Our property values are escalating because out-ofstate parties are paying ridiculous amounts of money for our land," Albers said. "If your new neighbor wants to pay four times the assessed value for his property, good for him. But you shouldn't be penalized for that with higher taxes."

The STOP bill (Stop Taxpayer Oppressive Policy) will begin the constitutional amendment process. Authored by Rep. Lorraine Seratti (R - Florence), the bill would change a clause in the state constitution requiring all property to be assessed at the same rate. Under the bill, increases in residential and commercial property assessments would be limited to the rate of inflation minus one-half percent, or three percent, whatever is lower. It would also make it illegal to assess property above its fair market value. Similar changes in California have been overwhelmingly successful in containing rising property rates. However, it has left some communities, especially those where property sales are stagnant, shortchanged in terms of educational monies.

"There are elderly residents in our communities who are literally being taxed out of their homes right now," Albers said. "Our current method of taxation forces lifelong residents out onto the streets. They work their whole lives in our communities and their reward is getting taxed out of their homes. If we want to preserve and stabilize our communities, this change is absolutely necessary."

STOP will allow homeowners to anticipate their property tax increases and allow for families to prepare budgets to accommodate reasonable increases in property taxes. Property value would initially be set at its current value, and would be reset whenever land is purchased. New property owners would enjoy the assessment cap in subsequent years.

In order to be enacted, STOP will need to be passed by two consecutive sessions of the Legislature and then approved by voters on a statewide ballot. If it were approved in this cycle, it will be taken up again by the 2005-06 Legislature. The soonest it could become effective is 2005. "This is the type of reform we've needed for years. I'm excited to work with Rep. Seratti to promote this idea and get it through the Legislature."
 

RHOADES: LEGISLATURE CONTINUES PUSH FOR OVERSIGHT OF GAMING COMPACTS

For Immediate Release March 7, 2003
Contact: Rep. Kitty Rhoades 1-888-529-0030

Madison, Wis. – In response to Governor Doyle's veto of a bill requiring general legislative oversight of gaming compacts, Representative Kitty Rhoades (Hudson) this week co-sponsored a new bill in an attempt to control the formation and scope of the agreements.

This is not the first time the legislature attempted to create a system of checks and balances regarding compacts. In 1999, the state budget included language requiring legislative approval of compacts, but then-Governor Tommy Thompson vetoed it.

Under the new bill, which is slightly narrower in scope than the first, compacts would need to be approved by both houses of the legislature if they are longer than 10 years in length, with a renewal period of more than 5 years, or if they authorize expansion of gambling off of reservations. Also, it would prohibit the Governor from entering into, amending, extending or renewing any compact that would allow new gaming activities based on those conducted in Canada.

"I was extremely frustrated by Governor Doyle's veto of legislative oversight. These agreements need to be reviewed in the light of day, and I hope the Governor understands that and signs this new bill," Rhoades stated.

The continued push for legislative oversight comes after recent reports suggesting the previous tentative negotiations may have been significantly more lucrative for the state, and limited to 10-year terms instead of in perpetuity.

"Weeks have gone by, and no one besides the Governor and his top aides know exactly what is in these compacts. There are unanswered questions about expansion and whether tribes would have a monopoly on all gambling in Wisconsin," Rhoades added.

"Governor Doyle needs to hear how this issue affects our citizens and our communities. All concerned citizens should call his office at 608-266-1212. Local governments and citizens should have some say in their destiny," said Rhoades
 

For Immediate Release
March 7, 2003

La Crosse Republican Party Members to Attend "Rally For America" In West Bend Sunday

LA CROSSE - Today the La Crosse Republican Party announced that several members are planning to attend the "Rally For America" to support our troops. This event is being held at the Washington County Fair Park Pavilion in West Bend, WI at 2:00 PM on Sunday March 9th. Members will be displaying their pride in America's Armed Forces with flags and patriotic songs.

"Even though I'm the vice-chair of the La Crosse Republican Party I'm not attending the rally as a Republican," said La Crosse Republican Party Vice-Chair Chris Muller. "I'm going as a patriot and I'm taking my kids so they can learn something about patriotism. If you see me in the crowd on Sunday you won't be able to tell that I'm Republican but you'll darn sure know how much I love our Armed Forces!"

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For more information:
Chris Muller, 608-781-2441, mullman@centurytel.net

For more information on the La Crosse Republican Party:
http://www.lcrp.net
 

University of Wisconsin College Republicans
For immediate release, 3/6/03 contact: Tim Rash, 608.239.4890

Anti-War Protesters Speak Out, Make Little Sense
Organizers of Wednesday's "Books Not Bombs" rally in Madison fail to convince, inspire many fellow students to join them.

(Madison) - One day after countless dozens of UW-Madison students walked out of class to oppose military spending and an impending war on Iraq, students are looking for the 37,000 plus full time students who mysteriously were not in attendance. "I was at the rallies yesterday on Bascom Hill and at the Capitol Square, and I haven't seen that many 15-year-olds in one place since the Backstreet Boys came to town," said Tim Rash, Chairman of the University of Wisconsin College Republicans. "College students were conspicuously absent. Perhaps they were too busy learning, instead of choosing to play hooky."

Following are quotes from papers around the country highlighting the "success" of the anti-war efforts:

• A Madison East student whose mother brought her to the protest showed her disappointment with the rally in Wednesday's Capitol Times by saying, "It looks to me like there aren't very many university students here."
   
• The Capitol Times also reported that after speeches on the front lawn of Madison West High School a number of students were seen not following their classmates to the rally, but instead "walked off to parts unknown."
   
• In Thursday's Daily Bruin (UCLA), first-year student Georgia Korbakis described the mood on the California campus by saying, "it doesn't seem like people care (about the 'Books Not Bombs' protest)."
   
• Madison West junior Olivia Rivard is asking for more proof before we go to war, as quoted in Thursday's Badger Herald. "We need to have solid proof there are weapons in Iraq before we invade," Rivard said.
   
• In Thursday's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Ashley Massart, a UW freshman, expressed an equally sophisticated argument for opposing war: "I think war is dumb," she told the paper.
   
• Also in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel: Gene Marshall, a teaching assistant at the UW, canceled his class and told his 20 students that he was going to participate in the "Books Not Bombs" protest, despite the fact that its goal was to support and protect education.
   
• In Wednesday's Capitol Times: Jesse Philbin of Madison West led protesters from her school by telling them: "I don't know everything this war is about, but I know what it's not about: It's not about equal rights, it's not about human rights. There's no cause that can justify it."
   
• Cassie Schimmel, a third-year history student at UCLA told the Daily Bruin, "Saddam Hussein probably does not speak for the entire Iraqi population."

"With reasons like that for walking out of classes to oppose the war I can't believe only less than 5% of UW students chose to participate in Wednesday's rally," Rash said. "If only more students could have heard the message that "War is dumb" prior to the rally, maybe the organizers could have attracted 6% of students behind their cause."

Rash also points out that more students could be found on the basketball court following UW's basketball victory over Illinois last night than on Bascom Hill during the morning rally. "UW students overwhelmingly proclaimed one thing and one thing only yesterday: we love the Badger men's basketball team. To the protesters, 'Final Four' is what's left when the other half of them goes to Steep and Brew for their fair trade coffee. The rest of us are too busy going to class, supporting our school, and supporting our country to pay any attention to their sophistry."
 

For immediate release: March 6, 2003
Information: Dale Schultz 800.978.8008

Schultz: Tear Down Interstate Ag Trade Barriers

Madison. . . . Wisconsin State Senator Dale Schultz is out to tear down barriers to interstate markets for agricultural producers. Schultz (R-Richland Center), chair of the Senate's agriculture committee, will soon introduce legislation to fix one such trade barrier at the request of the state's aquaculture industry.

"Wisconsin fish farmers must be able to sell their products in any state," Schultz said. "While other states allow the sale of Wisconsin-raised baitfish with only a health certificate for the product, other states have a law preventing sales by Wisconsin fish and bait producers."

"The intent is to help their in-state fish farmers by keeping out competition, plain and simple," Schultz said. "I hope to fix this problem with creative legislation at the state level."

Schultz said the situation might be a case of restraint of interstate trade, in violation of federal law, but that Wisconsin's fish farmers cannot afford a costly federal lawsuit. Schultz is a champion of Wisconsin's growing aquaculture industry. He said it's important to fight against unfair trade restriction hurting any ag commodity. For example, he also wants to see the end of restrictions on interstate trade of Wisconsin meat products.

"We need to protect public health of course," Schultz said. "But Wisconsin's meat inspection requirements exceed federal standards. Producers should not have the burden of a court fight. Government should fight on behalf of any agricultural producers when profitability is hurt by artificial barriers."

To contact Dale Schultz on agriculture issues, call 800-978-8008, write to PO Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707 or send email to Dale.Schultz@legis.state.wi.us.
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 5, 2003
For more information, contact Rep. Freese
(608) 266-7502 or toll free (888) 534-0051

ASSEMBLY CAMPAIGNS & ELECTIONS COMMITTEE MOVES ON REFORM BILLS

MADISON - The Assembly Campaigns and Elections Committee has approved twelve measures aimed at reforming the electoral process. State Representative & Committee Chair Steve Freese (R-Dodgeville) believes that these proposals will go a long way to ensuring the integrity of the voting system.

"Assembly Republicans have set the agenda and led the charge on election reform for the last two sessions," says Freese. "Despite our efforts being blocked again and again, we have come back strong this session to get the job done."

"The last several years have shown us that there are problems with the electoral system. The 2000 presidential election, Milwaukee County's latest recall race – these are just more examples of people and their votes slipping through holes in our system."

Some of the election bills considered and passed by the committee include:

• Voter ID - Requiring all voters to show valid ID while at the polls or getting an absentee ballot will make it easier to vote and harder to cheat.
   
• Changing the Date of the Presidential Primary - By moving the primary date to the third Tuesday in February, Wisconsin voters will have a greater voice in choosing Presidential nominees.
   
• Uniform Polling Hours - Require all election polls be open from 7 A.M. to 8 P.M.
   
• Telling Felons No - The courts and Department of Corrections must explicitly tell felons, parolees, and those under extended supervision that they are ineligible to vote.
   
• Ensuring Quality Poll Workers - Requiring the Elections Board to come up with recommendations for recruitment, training, certification and compensation of poll workers.
   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 5, 2003
For More Information
Contact: Katie Mnuk, (608) 266-8546

Veto Override Effort Fails; No Legislative Oversight on Compacts

(Madison) Senator Ron Brown (R-Eau Claire) joined with 19 other State Senators in a vote to override Governor Doyle's veto of Senate Bill 41, a bill that would provide legislative oversight on tribal gaming compacts negotiated by the Governor. Overriding a gubernatorial veto requires a 2/3 majority vote in each house of the Wisconsin Legislature. In the Senate, the number of votes needed was 21. The override effort fell short by 1 vote.

The people of Wisconsin lost today," Brown said. "We've had ample evidence that compacts are being negotiated that substantially expand gaming in Wisconsin. In fact, they go far beyond the limits of the 1993 gambling amendments to the Wisconsin Constitution. I believe these provisions exceed anything the people of Wisconsin could imagine."

Brown cited a compact negotiated by the Forest County Potawatomi tribe that lasts in perpetuity, expanding the hours and types of games allowed at Wisconsin casinos. In addition, the compact contains a provision allowing the tribe to operate any games played at any casino located within 75 miles of Wisconsin's borders, including in casinos in Indiana, Chicago and even Canada. "This opens us up to many, many new games both now and into the future." Brown said. "We simply don't know what the effect will be, and we'll never be able to turn back the clock."

Legislative oversight would have allowed the people of Wisconsin to be represented in the negotiation process. I'm disappointed that more Senators didn't do the right thing and support policy over politics with their vote," Brown said.
 

For Immediate Release
March 5, 2003

La Crosse County Republican Party Vice-Chairman Announces Support for Legislature Oversight on Gaming

LA CROSSE — March 5, 2003 — The La Crosse County Republican Party Vice-Chairman, Chris Muller, announced today his support for efforts in the legislature to give oversight of gaming compacts to the representatives of the people instead of solely to the governor. Mr. Muller also hopes that State Senator Mark Meyer, who opposes the oversight of gaming compacts, will stop his partisan tactics and support this effort to empower the people.

"It is unfortunate that State Senator Mark Meyer and others in Madison think it is ok for the governor to cut secret deals on gaming in this state," said La Crosse County Republican Party Vice-Chairman Chris Muller. "As a Republican I believe in individual freedom and that the representatives of the people should have a say in matters of this magnitude. Leaving decisions like this up to one person is a recipe for disaster."

#########

For more information, press only:
Chris Muller, 608-781-2441, mullman@centurytel.net

For more information about the La Crosse County Republican Party: http://www.lcrp.net/
 

March 4, 2003
Contact: Senator Panzer: 608-266-7513
Speaker Gard: 608-266-3387
Senator Welch: 608-266-0751
Representative Fitzgerald: 608-266-2540

LEGISLATORS ANNOUNCE BILL ON TRIBAL GAMING
Bill will address three serious problems with compacts that have been announced

MADISON- Today Senate Majority Leader Mary Panzer (R-West Bend), Assembly Speaker John Gard (R-Peshtigo), State Senator Bob Welch (R-Redgranite), and Representative Jeff Fitzgerald (R- Beaver Dam) announced they will be introducing a bill to address egregious items contained in compacts negotiated by Governor Jim Doyle.

"The legislature needed to act to address very serious problems with the recently announced gaming compacts," Panzer said. "It is our responsibility to future generations to make sure these compacts are fair today and in the future."

The legislation will include three provisions:

• Any compact that is longer than 10 years in length with an opportunity to renew for 5 more years must be approved by both houses of the legislature.
   
• Any expansion of tribal gambling to locations currently off tribal reservation land would require approval of both houses of the legislature.
   
• Prohibit casinos in other countries from having an impact on the type of games that casinos in Wisconsin may offer. (The Potawatomi Compact includes a 75-mile zone around the State of Wisconsin. If a table game is offered in any casino in that zone, Wisconsin casinos will be allowed to offer the same game.)

"We are not content to sit idly by while the Doyle administration sells out the future of this state for peanuts," Gard added. "I look forward to the Assembly taking action on this bill quickly."

Legislators announced that this bill is currently being drafted and should be introduced by the end of the week.

"Because the Governor continues to refuse to let the light of day shine on the sweetheart deals he has negotiated with the tribes we again are forced to act on the issue of legislative oversight of Indian gaming," added Welch. "I look forward to quick passage of this legislation."

Legislative leaders have said they plan on debating this bill in both the State Senate and Assembly sometime during the week of March 10, 2003.

"Governor Doyle is arbitrarily selling out Wisconsin's future while ignoring the voice of the people," said Fitzgerald. "The Legislature simply cannot stand by and allow the Doyle Administration to hold Wisconsin's economy hostage forever, and we will do whatever is in our power to reel in an out-of-control executive branch."
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 4, 2003
For more information, contact Rep. Freese
(608) 266-7502 or toll free (888) 534-0051

FREESE PROPOSES NEW VOTER ID BILL
2000 Election and Disputed Ballots in Milwaukee Recall Race Are Latest Examples Of Need For Electoral Reform

MADISON. . .State Representative Steve Freese (R-Dodgeville) has reintroduced a bill requiring Wisconsin electors to present a photo ID when voting, and according to Freese, the timing of this legislation could not be better.

"Republicans have been pressing for this reform ever since the 2000 presidential election," says Freese. "We recognized the need to make it easier to vote and harder to cheat. Unfortunately, this measure was blocked and now we are seeing the fruits of obstruction: multiple instances of potential voter fraud in a Milwaukee recall race."

Similar to a bill introduced last session, Freese's bill requires all electors to show a valid Wisconsin driver's license or valid Wisconsin identification card with a photo when voting at the polls on election day or getting an absentee ballot. A new provision in this bill allows those electors who cannot prove their identity to fill out a provisional ballot. They will have until the end of the next business day to present ID to the municipal clerk so that their vote is counted.

In addition, an eligible elector can obtain a Wisconsin identification card from the Department of Transportation free of charge. A driver's license or photo ID card would be the only means of ID allowed under the bill.

"Identification is required with most transactions in business and in those situations where security is paramount," says Freese. "Voting is no different. This is an important right and the integrity of the process should be protected."

The Assembly Campaigns and Elections Committee will hear the bill on Thursday, which is chaired by Freese.
 

RESPONSE TO MAROTTA CRITICISM OF COMPACT FIGURES

Assembly Speaker John Gard
3/3/3

Earlier today, Department of Administration Secretary Marc Marotta issued a memo in an attempt to deflect criticism over the gambling deal Governor Doyle cut with the Potawatomi tribe. In his memo, Secretary Marotta attempts to confuse the issue with competing growth projections for Indian gaming and competing projections of the state yield from that growth.

Secretary Marotta is correct when he states, "it is difficult to compare a proposal made during negotiations to an agreement signed by both parties." It is not difficult, however, to determine that, by whichever standard or set of assumptions one uses, the long-term benefit of the Doyle compact pales in comparison to the deal the Potawatomi offered the state and were willingto accept last September.

One might well argue with many of the assertions the Secretary makes in his memo, including the dramatic downplaying of the impact creating a perpetual gaming monopoly would have on tribal gaming revenue growth. As you can see from the attached table, however, even if you accept the Doyle Administration's own more modest assumptions concerning growth, the state fares worse under their deal than under the Potawatomi offer of last September.

Finally, the Doyle administration's eleventh hour attempts to obfuscate this issue with competing claims and projections only serve to highlight the importance of moving compact negotiations out from behind closed doors and into the light of day. In the words of Jim Doyle, "secrecy breeds suspicion." It is my hope that by shining a little light into the dark corners of these secret deals we will highlight the need for a more accountable process for these negotiations in the future.
 

For Immediate Release: March 3, 2003
Information: Senator Dale Schultz 800.978.8008, Senator Carol Roessler 888.736.8720

Patients Compensation Fund Raid Prompts Public Hearing

Madison. . . . A controversial idea to balance the state budget has led two state senators to call a public hearing. In his budget, Governor Doyle proposed a $200 million raid of the patients compensation fund to help reduce the state deficit. Responding to widespread concerns, Senators Dale Schultz and Carol Roessler will hold a public hearing on the Governor's plan.

"The cost of medical malpractice insurance for doctors is so out of control in other states, that doctors are leaving those states," said Schultz (R-Richland Center). "Here in Wisconsin, the Patients Compensation Fund is the reason we've been able to avoid a crisis like that."

The Patients Compensation Fund provides excess medical malpractice coverage for health care providers. Doctors and other medical professionals must have $1 million of medical malpractice insurance. The Patients Compensation Fund provides malpractice coverage over $1 million, and it is funded by annual assessments of health care providers.

"Our state's Patients Compensation Fund is the envy of other states where malpractice insurance costs are creating a crisis in their health care system," said Roessler (R-Oshkosh). "To protect our state's quality health care system we should protect this fund."

"Wisconsin is one of only eight states that has avoided the medical malpractice crisis that has swept the nation," said Schultz. "The Governor's budget would take over one-third of the Fund's assets to help balance the state budget."

The legality of the Governor's proposal is also in question. "By state statute, the fund is held in trust and cannot be used for other purposes," said Roessler. "In legal terms, the proposed raid on the Fund may be considered 'a taking' or 'a violation of trust principles'".

Roessler said they expect lawyers will testify on these concerns at the public hearing. The hearing will be Monday, March 17th at 1:00 p.m. in Room 411 South of the State Capitol. For information, call Schultz, 800-978-8008 or Roessler, 888-736-8720.
 

GARD SUSPENDS ASSEMBLY TRAVEL
Savings Estimated at Nearly $140,000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 3, 2003
CONTACT: SPEAKER GARD
608-266-2402

MADISON. . .Out-of-state travel for lawmakers on the taxpayer dime will be indefinitely suspended immediately as part of the state Assembly's continuing efforts to cut spending. Assembly Speaker John Gard (R-Peshtigo) said that the travel freeze is estimated to reduce Assembly costs by nearly $140,000 during the current session.

"With the state facing a $3.2 billion deficit, the Legislature has to lead by example in looking for ways to cut costs," said Gard. "You can't spend money you don't have. That rule applies for Assembly travel just as much as it applies to other areas of this budget."

Traditionally, lawmakers have been allowed to apply for state reimbursement of their travel expenses when that travel relates to their official duties. Most often these trips involve national legislative conferences or seminars. The Speaker has approval authority over all reimbursement applications.

Gard acknowledged that many of these conferences are extremely beneficial to lawmakers in terms of developing new expertise and contacts with colleagues around the nation. In the face of the current budget deficit, however, Gard said tough decisions about priorities had to be made.

"I hope that if a member believes an out-of-state event will be critical to their job they will still go but will find a way to pay for their travel out of their own pocket instead of the taxpayers' pockets," said Gard.

Over the past three legislative sessions, the Assembly has averaged $139,603 in these travel costs per session. Today's announcement comes on the heels of an announcement earlier in the week implementing changes in the size and duties of the Assembly Sergeant at Arms office that will reduce the Assembly budget by over $355,000.

"One of the major goals of the upcoming budget will be to make government smarter, smaller and less expensive to the taxpayer," said Gard. "I think all our members understand that job has to start right here at home in the Assembly. As we move forward this session, we're going to keep looking for additional ways to reduce our costs even further."
 

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