Constituent Input Through Surveys and Listening Sessions Appreciated

In October, many of you took the opportunity to respond to my October 2011 Survey, which I posted on my website, HarsdorfSenate.com. On the survey, I asked questions about several measures and initiatives currently being discussed in the State Legislature.  Here is a breakdown of the results:

• The first question asked about support for the creation of a state venture capital authority to assist Wisconsin-based business.  48% said maybe, as long as investments are in Wisconsin businesses and taxpayers are protected, while 39% of those who responded said no, the state should not be involved in venture capital efforts. 13% supported the creation of a state venture capital authority.
• The second question dealt with the recently created special committee to review Wisconsin’s mining laws in response to interest in mining ore in northern Wisconsin.  46% support changes to mining laws that also consider impacts on wetlands and water quality, 40% supported the changes to mining laws to encourage new mining ventures and 15% opposed changes given environmental concerns.
• The third question inquired about a legislative proposal that would address unfunded mandates on local governments and require a review of enacted laws that increase costs on local governments. 57% supported removing all unfunded mandates on local governments while 32% were undecided and would need to know more about the proposal. 7% would like to see this standard applied only to future laws and 4% opposed the legislation entirely.
• The fourth question was about legislation I authored with Representative Erik Severson, which requires regional representation on the UW Board of Regents. 95% of respondents supported state boards being required to have members from all parts of the state with 5% opposed.

While surveys are a great way to receive constituent input, I also appreciate the opportunity to meet with constituents directly. Recently, I held several listening sessions in the district to provide constituents the opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns on issues of interest. Constituent input helps me to keep a pulse on the issues important to western Wisconsin residents.

While it was necessary for me to cancel the second day of listening sessions due to a family emergency, I will be rescheduling those visits after the first of the year and sending out subsequent notice.

Whether it is attending a listening session, filling out a survey or contacting me by phone or email, I sincerely appreciate the time residents take to provide their input.  If you would like to add your input to these survey results, please visit my website HarsdorfSenate.com or call my office at 1-800-862-1092. Your feedback is critical to the work we do in the State Legislature.