Andrea Palm

Will State Supreme Court Cool Its Ideological Rancor?

As of August 1, its hostility toward experts and democracy won't fly.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Candidates

Plus: Three aldermanic races and a north shore state senate race.

Dan Kelly Makes His Case for High Court

'Where do our rights come from?' asks former state Supreme Court justice. 'God!'

DHS Leader Karen Timberlake Leaving Gov. Evers Administration

Timberlake has led Department of Health Services since January 2021.

Gov. Evers Announces DHS Secretary-designee Timberlake Leaving Evers Administration

What Will Happen to Evers’ Appointees?

After four years, a long list of his appointees to head departments, serve on state boards still haven't been approved by GOP Senate.

State Supreme Court Says Natural Resources Board Member Can Stay

Legislature won't okay Evers appointee to replace Fred Prehn so Prehn won’t step down.

State Supreme Court Hears Natural Resources Board Case

Former chair Fred Prehn refuses to vacate his seat on the board.

How Gov. Evers Responded to Pandemic

It will be an issue in the election: A review of his record shows a very active governor.

Kaul Lawsuit Seeks to Force Walker Appointee Off DNR Board

Fred Prehn’s six-year term expired May 1. AG argues governor can remove him.

UW Campuses Vary on Mask Policy

UWM among eight state universities requiring them. Others hint it may be voluntary.

Will Kaul Remove Natural Resources Board Chair?

Environmental groups push him to act. AG says law will guide his decision.

Republicans Scheme to Continue Scott Walker Era

Thwarting voters’ choice by refusing to approve Evers appointees to boards, commissions.

Senator Johnson Opposes Former WI Health Official Despite Overwhelming Bipartisan Support

Senator Ron Johnson Again Shows He’s Far Outside What Wisconsinites Expect from Elected Leaders in Washington

Senator Ron Johnson Opposes Former Wisconsin Health Official in Preliminary Senate Vote

Opportunity Wisconsin calls on Johnson to confirm Andrea Palm in final vote tomorrow morning

Let the Crowds In

Highlights from state Supreme Court ruling overthrowing state order on bar and restaurant capacity limits.

Court Kills Another Evers Pandemic Order

4-3 State Supreme Court ruling overthrows October order limiting restaurant and bar capacity.

GOP Governors Have Higher COVID-19 Rates

More cases, more deaths per capita in states run by Republicans.

Republicans Look Silly on Andrea Palm

Former state health secretary they hated was success with state vaccine plan, and got picked as Biden's deputy health secretary.

How The Republican Party Lost Control

Wisconsin was a hotbed for the far-right rebellion.

Timberlake Has Chops to Ramp Up Vaccines

Evers appointee to head state health department a seasoned pro. GOP legislators should confirm her.

Vaccines for Senior Citizens Start Soon

As of January 25, people 65 and older can get vaccinated. State committee still finalizing other recommendations.

Wisconsin Announces 65 and older Adults Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccine Beginning January 25

Protect Our Care Applauds President-Elect Biden’s Selection of Andrea Palm as Deputy Secretary of HHS

State Losing Top Health Official To Biden Administration

Andrea Palm named deputy secretary of Department of Health and Human Services.

Gov. Tony Evers Releases Statement on DHS Secretary-designee Palm Nomination, Announces DHS Interim Secretary Karen Timberlake

Cocktails To Go Bill Enjoys Industry Support

Seen as a life line to bars and restaurants, the bill brings up questions regarding drunk driving, and local control over liquor licensing.

Wisconsin Creating Mobile Vaccination Teams

Effort to be initially targeted at first responders.

Gov. Evers Announces Launch of Mobile Vaccination Teams

Mobile vaccination clinics will expand vaccine access to all corners of Wisconsin

Gov. Evers, DHS Announce Nearly $9 Million Awarded for Drug Treatment Services

Funding to support treatment for the problem use of opioids and stimulants

DHS Unveils Enhancements to COVID-19 Vaccine Data Page

COVID-19 Variant Hits Wisconsin

Research indicates it is more easily transmitted and may have led to UK's spike in infections.

We Hate State Administrators

State Supreme Court conservatives keep blasting the administrative state. Why?

Gov. Evers and DHS Announce $86 Million in Funding for Local and Tribal Health Departments

Gov. Evers and DHS Announce $86 Million in Funding for Local and Tribal Health Departments

DHS and Laboratory Partners Identify Variant Strain B.1.1.7 of SARS-CoV-2 in Wisconsin

Firefighters, Police Next Up For Vaccines

State plan calls for phase 1b to start next week, may also include teachers, correctional workers.

Department of Health Services Announces Police and Fire are Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccine

Vaccines will be available to them starting January 18, 2021

Gov. Evers and Department of Health Services Call on Federal Government to Distribute More COVID-19 Vaccine

Gov. Evers Announces Wisconsin National Guard Surpasses One Million COVID-19 Tests Administered

Wisconsin Center Could Become Vaccine Hub

City working to set up COVID-19 vaccine distribution hub.

State Clears Unemployment Claims Backlog

Evers promotes Amy Pechacek to secretary designee of Department of Workforce Development.

State Data Dashboard Tracks Vaccine Progress

Department of Health Services’ data tracker reports progress immunizing people against COVID-19.

DHS Launches COVID-19 Vaccine Data Page

Nearly 40,000 Doses of Vaccine Administered

State overseeing 2,800 doses per day to health care workers and long-term care residents.

Gov. Evers Announces the Launch of the Pharmacy Distribution Program for Long-Term Care

First on-site COVID-19 vaccinations at skilled nursing facilities begin today

Evers Reflects on Year of Pandemic, Protests

Proud of his administration’s response to COVID-19, “we turned that around a little bit.”

Wisconsin to Expand Testing for Assisted Living Facilities

DHS will support assisted living facilities in routine testing of staff and residents

COVID-19 Contact Tracing App Launches in Wisconsin

State encourages residents to download or enable the app to help protect their communities

Gov. Evers, DHS Announce Wisconsin to Offer At-Home COVID-19 Testing Option

Gov. Evers Announces Wisconsin to Receive First Shipment of Moderna Vaccine

Second FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine deemed safe and effective

Nursing Students Help With COVID-19 Care

UW System offers incentives for students to join the effort at hospitals and clinics.

WI Supreme Court Hears Challenge to Latest COVID-19 Order

The suit challenges a statewide restriction on bar, restaurant capacity that already expired.

Wisconsin Unveils COVID-19 Contact Tracing App

Smartphone users will get messages next week to opt-in to voluntary system.

Gov. Evers Announces New Contact Tracing App to Launch Next Week

WI Exposure Notification app can alert you if you’ve been in close contact with a positive case

State Supreme Court Justices Unmasked

The losing minority in Trump election case vent their anger and reveal their prejudices.

State’s Vaccine Stockpile Could Triple

Federal approval of second COVID-19 vaccine could mean Wisconsin receives 100,000 doses of Moderna vaccine soon.

Gov. Evers, DHS Announce Wisconsin Receiving First Shipment of Pfizer Vaccine

State ready to enact the Wisconsin COVID-19 Vaccine Program

DHS Launches COVID-19 Wastewater Surveillance Dashboard

Monitoring wastewater can help officials gauge COVID-19 activity in communities as early as a week before clinical testing

Kenosha County Pfizer Facility To Supply Vaccines

Company’s facility in Pleasant Prairie may distribute vaccines to western U.S.

Evers Administration Continues Efforts to Increase Health Care Workforce

Wisconsin Offers Equipment to Retail Establishments to Increase People’s Ability to Safely Use FoodShare Benefits

DHS Announces New COVID-19 Guidance on Quarantine Duration

DHS supports revised CDC guidelines to shorten quarantine for close contacts

DHS Launches New Map Visualizations Providing Additional Geographic Breakdowns for COVID-19 Case and Death Data

New geographies include municipalities, zip codes, and school district boundaries

Think Small on Thanksgiving, Evers Urges

Big gatherings spread COVID-19, he warns. Governor celebrating only with his wife.

UW System initiates incentives for student nurses to assist in health care crisis

Family Caregivers Can Access Many Helpful Resources This Holiday Season

November is National Family Caregiver Month

3,507 New Cases, 0 Deaths Reported Sunday

Glitch? One day blip? Or the start of a new trend? Time will tell.

Rising Cases, Stress at One Hospital

As legislator leaders fail to take action, health care workers see no end in sight.

6,473 New COVID-19 Cases, 78 Deaths

Seven-day positive case rate falls from peak.

Evers Issues New COVID-19 Order

This order re-ups the statewide mask-mandate.

Gov. Evers Announces New Public Health Emergency Due to Overwhelmed Wisconsin Hospitals, Issues New Face Coverings Order

71 of 72 Counties Have “Critically High” COVID-19 Levels

Milwaukee County now has 26th-worst all-time per-capita outbreak.

Wausau Hospital Sends COVID-19 Patients Home, Saving Space for Critically Ill

Aspirus Wausau is sending COVID-19 patients home to make room for sicker patients.

Record 7,989 New Cases

283 hospitalizations, 53 deaths

Evers Extending Mask Mandate Into 2021

New order expected in coming days, despite pending legal challenges.

Governor Evers and DHS Direct an Additional $80 Million to Support Skilled Nursing Facilities

Pandemic Surges as Courts Tie Evers’ Hands

Federal coronavirus task force says Wisconsin needs more comprehensive strategy.

Governor Evers, Commissioner Afable, and Secretary-Designee Palm Urge Wisconsinites to Shop for Health Plans Available during Open Enrollment

Purple Wisconsin Still Has Dark Red Legislature

Republican legislators continue to win big with minority of state's vote.

All 72 Wisconsin Counties Have “Very High” COVID-19 Case Burdens

Milwaukee County sees its case rate rise, but falls backward to 19th worst all-time outbreak.

Evers Asks High Court to Review COVID Rules

As lower courts flip flop on bar and restaurant restrictions he wants Supreme Court to step in.

Gov. Evers, DHS Secretary-designee Palm Announce Expansion of Wisconsin’s COVID-19 Community Testing Efforts

DHS Continues Investment in Quality Health Care for Rural Areas

64 Deaths, 5,262 New COVID-19 Cases

Wisconsin set new records for cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

False Claims Frustrate Efforts to Fight Pandemic

Conspiracy theories, misinformation, attacks on health officials could make us sicker.

Appeals Court Blocks State Restaurant, Bar Rules

Court says appeal against Evers’ restrictions by Tavern League will likely succeed.

Record 1,230 People Actively Hospitalized With COVID-19

Active hospitalizations grow 265% in two months.

Alternate Care Facility Admits First Patient

As Wisconsin sets record for COVID-19 hospitalizations, overflow facility in West Allis accepts patients.

DHS Reports A Record 48 Deaths

Surge in cases, then a surge in hospitalizations and now a surge in deaths.

New Data Dashboard Displays Health Impact of COVID-19 by Race and Ethnicity

Data shows communities of color are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19

Gov. Evers, DHS Report Highest Single-Day COVID-19 Death Count, First Patient Admitted to Alternate Care Facility at Wisconsin State Fair Park

Appeal Challenges Evers’ Bar Restaurant Limits

District court upheld governor’s restrictions. Lawsuit asks appeals court to overturn ruling.

43% of Wisconsin’s COVID-19 Cases Have Come in Past Month

Menominee County now has worst outbreak in state, Milwaukee County falls to 12th all time.

Record 1,172 People Actively Hospitalized With COVID-19 As DHS Restores Dashboard

Milwaukee falls another place to 11th worst all-time per capita outbreak.

Judge Restores Restaurant, Bar Restrictions

Temporary order by judge ending statewide limits is overruled by another judge.

Mask Mandate Targeted by Another Conservative Lawsuit

New lawsuit filed this week by Heartland Institute board member.

Wisconsin’s Active COVID-19 Cases Would Form 24th Largest City in State

Records set for new cases, positive case rate and rolling death total.

Wisconsin Adopts Policy that Suspends Rather than Terminates Medicaid Coverage for Incarcerated Individuals

New policy will enable Medicaid-eligible individuals leaving jail or prison to have health care coverage immediately upon release

New One-Day COVID-19 Case Record As Hospitalizations Surge 181% In 30 Days

Records set for new cases, positive case rate, active hospitalizations and rolling death total.

Record 1,017 People Actively Hospitalized With COVID-19

Average daily death toll hits all-time record.

Pence Touts Trump, Blasts Mayor Barrett

His speech in Waukesha calls it “Trump country.” Attendees not socially distanced.

Record Day for COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths

3,279 cases, 147 new hospitalizations, 34 deaths.

Republicans Have ‘Blood On Their Hands”

Evers signals he will ignore Legislative restriction, challenges GOP to present their pandemic plan.

More Than 205,000 Wisconsin Households to Receive Additional October FoodShare Benefits in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

Maximum amounts of benefits increased by federal government on October 1

GOP Legislators In Rules Standoff With Evers

Republican resolution requires Evers' health restrictions on public gatherings to get committee approval.

GOP Legislators Attack Evers’ New Restrictions

But Republicans have proposed zero plans for dealing with the coronavirus.

Youth Crisis Stabilization Facility Opens in Milwaukee

New residential mental health treatment option

3,132 New COVID-19 Cases, A New Record

The number of people actively hospitalized sets another record.

Milwaukee Enforcing Existing Capacity Restrictions Over Lower State Limits

Health Department determines its order is more restrictive, superseding blanket 25% restriction.

State Should Identify Schools With COVID-19 Outbreaks

A handful of other states are doing this, and so should Wisconsin's Department of Health Services.

“This Is Going To Get Worse Before It Gets Better” Says Top Health Official

New records for actively hospitalized and newly admitted.

Due to Increased Hospitalizations in the Fox Valley, Gov. Evers Announces Wisconsin State Fair Park Alternate Care Facility to Accept COVID-19 Patients October 14

Record COVID-19 surges throughout the state increases pressure on Wisconsin health systems

Evers Restricts Bar, Restaurant Capacity

All public, indoor facilities cannot exceed 25% of capacity. Order runs through November 6th.

Gov. Evers Directs Department of Health Services to Limit Indoor Public Gatherings

Health Departments ‘Cracking Under Strain’ of Pandemic

Top epidemiologist say state needs more contact tracing staff, expanded testing to slow virus spread.

Evers Urges Citizens, Practice COVID Safety

As cases surge, governor has given up on GOP legislators, urges people to stay home, wear masks.

Gov. Evers, Secretary-designee Palm Issue Order to Expand Healthcare Workforce

With Surge in Cases, DHS Launches New COVID-19 Data and Mitigation Strategies to Aid Local Communities

DHS launches new data about disease activity, hospital capacity, cases among children, and percent positive by test, as well as mitigation strategies guidance

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Health Equity Council

One Out of 50 Wisconsin Residents Has Tested Positive for COVID-19

Active hospitalizations hit another record high.

Wisconsin Needs More Contact Tracers

State likely needs an additional 8,000 tracers to respond to COVID-19 spread.

State’s College Towns Top U.S. Pandemic List

Wisconsin has 6 of nation’s 20 metro areas with most COVID-19 cases in past two weeks.

Republicans Fight Evers Mask Order

Emergency order “obviously illegal,” Evers a “lawless governor,” Vos declares.

Evers Declares New Health Emergency, Extends Mask Mandate

Scheduled to expire September 28th, mandate now runs to November 21st.

Gov. Evers Declares New Public Health Emergency Due to Campus Outbreaks, Issues New Face Coverings Order

Lessons From the 1918 Influenza Plague

‘We have done such a poor job.' Wisconsin was a leader in 1918, says historian.

Wisconsin Awarded $16.7 Million Federal Grant to Counter Addictions to Opioids and Stimulants

Funding for prevention, treatment, and recovery support services

New Call Center Expands Support for People in Emotional Distress

More Wisconsin calls to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline being answered in state

Evers Wants to Extend Mask Mandate

Order expires in two weeks, governor looking at "every possible avenue” to extend it.

COVID-19 Cases Declining In Every Age Group Except 18-24

But seven-day case total is at an all-time high.

Gov. Evers, OCI Commissioner Afable, DHS Secretary-designee Palm Encourage Wisconsinites Who Lost Health Insurance Anytime this Year to Enroll 

Local Health Officials Stripped of Power?

State Supreme Court’s Dane County ruling could threaten longstanding power of all local health officials, expert believes.

DHS Expands COVID Connect Test Registration Website to Include Spanish, Hmong, and Somali Languages

Getting a Flu Vaccine Now is Critical During Ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic

DHS Encourages State Residents to Get Flu Vaccinations by Halloween

Wisconsin Launches “You Stop the Spread” Multimedia Campaign

Encourages People to Protect Themselves and Their Communities from COVID-19

Record COVID-19 Cases As a Result of Reporting Fix

Positive case rate, a measure of if enough testing is being done, continues to climb.

Governor Evers and State Public Health Officials Encourages Residents to Wear a Mask and Limit Exposure Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

Over 20% of confirmed cases associated with group gatherings

New Data Dashboard Shows COVID-19 Trends by Age Group

Numbers reveal younger people have more confirmed cases and higher rates of illness in Wisconsin

“We’re Not Doing Enough Tests” Says State Disease Expert

"I think it's very safe to say that we're not doing enough tests," says Dr. Ryan Westergaard.

DHS Opens Second Round of Applications for Funds to Support Health Care Providers Affected by COVID-19

Wisconsin Makes CARES Act funds available to home and community-based service providers, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, emergency medical services, and clinics

New Report Provides Guidance to Address Increased Suicide Deaths in Wisconsin

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Knowing the Signs Can Help Prevent Drug Overdose Deaths

Today is International Overdose Awareness Day

The Reality of COVID-19 ‘Recovery’

For some it’s a long painful journey to recovery.

State Supreme Court Is Radically Activist

Record shows many examples of grabbing cases before lower courts rule.

Are COVID-19 Deaths Higher Than We Think?

An epidemiological model suggests they could be.

COVID-19 Testing Hits Month Low

943 new cases reported Thursday.

GOP Hasn’t Interfered With Mask Mandate

They've criticized it, but for now they've left it alone.

Wisconsin COVID-19 Death Toll Surpasses 1,000

Lowest COVID-19 Case Total In a Month

Testing continues to trend upward.

1,059 New Cases As Governor Announces Mask Mandate

Second biggest testing and case day on record.

Evers Should Re-Order All Restrictions

Not just a mask mandate. Put the Supreme Court on the hot seat.

Evers Issues Statewide Mask Mandate

Order goes into effect August 1st.

Gov. Evers Issues Executive Order Declaring Public Health Emergency and Requiring Face Coverings Statewide

1,052 New COVID-19 Cases, 13 Deaths

State hits 85,000 tests per week goal for second time. Will it be sustained?

State Health Agency Finds Behavioral Health Challenges are Compounded by COVID-19

Services are available for people struggling with addiction and mental health challenges

Court Rulings Against Evers Sow Confusion

Supreme Court overrules vetoes and health orders with vague language offering no guidance.

Attorney General Kaul Announces Lawsuit Against Trump Administration for Allowing Health Care Discrimination

State Using Half of Testing Capacity

DHS officials call for residents to more readily get tested for COVID-19.

New High, 964 New COVID-19 Cases

State sets new case record for fourth time in past week and a 30-day hospitalization high.

Gov. Evers Announces Successful Roll Out of Online COVID-19 Test Registration at National Guard Testing Sites

COVID Connect provides shorter wait times and faster results

Evers Won’t Issue New Shutdown Order

Cites Republican and Supreme Court opposition even as state cases double in just one month.

WMC: Clarity Needed from DHS and Sec. Andrea Palm

Wisconsin Has Fastest COVID-19 Spread In U.S.

New study has alarming figures, with spread coming since state shutdown ended.

COVID-19 Cases Double Since Memorial Day

State officials fear spread to older population could trigger surge in hospitalizations and deaths.

Wisconsin Accepting Applications to Pilot New Approach to Treating Substance Use Disorders

Successful Organizations will be the Hubs in New Hub and Spoke Model

Wisconsin Reports Biggest One-Day COVID-19 Case Increase

But no new deaths and hospitalizations fall to three month low.

Cigarette Smoking Rates are Lower Since Passage of Wisconsin’s Smoke-Free Indoor Air Law

July 5 marks the law’s 10th anniversary

Grants Awarded for Youth Crisis Stabilization Facilities

New residential mental health treatment option

State Was a Leader in Handling AIDS

Wisconsin less partisan and leaders had broad authority under law state Supreme Court recently overruled.

County Spending $10 Million to Prevent Evictions

Evictions up 44% since May. Both Milwaukee and Dane counties using federal funds to fight this.

New Tool Tracks COVID-19 Changes By County

State DHS dashboard tracks active spread in last two weeks to guide decision makers.

AG Kaul Warns of, Outlines How to Identify Contact Tracing Scammers

DHS Announces COVID-19 Population Health Studies

Two studies will help public health experts understand the virus and inform public

Did High Court Order Hike State’s COVID Cases?

They’re definitely up since state Supreme Court ruling, and a faster rate than the nation.

COVID-19 Hospitalizations Fall To Two-Month Low

Number of people hospitalized hasn't been this low since April 4th.

Evers Meets With Lawmakers on Police Reform

Governor says the state is at a "watershed moment" for the issue of police reform, racism.

Gov. Evers Announces $40 Million in Financial Assistance to Hospitals to Help With COVID-19 Losses

DHS Announces $10 Million in Funding for Health Clinics

Funds will reimburse clinics providing care to underserved populations

WI Supreme Court Dismisses Second ‘Safer At Home’ Suit

Ruling leaves local stay-at-home orders in place.

Justice Hagedorn Surprises Observers

Supreme Court justice seems like a true conservative, not a right-wing activist.

New Highs for COVID-19 Testing, Cases, Deaths

State reports over 10,000 tests in a single day for the first time.

Will Evictions, Home Foreclosures Rise?

State moratorium on both has expired, experts expect surge in problems.

State Creating a Contact Tracing Army

Goal of 1,000 tracers, librarians, National Guard members may be recruited.

Resilient Wisconsin Expands Reach

Initiative adds supports to website for Wisconsinites most significantly affected by COVID-19

Federal Lawsuit Challenges Local “Safer at Home” Orders

Two plaintiffs are Republican candidates for office, another is a Milwaukee pastor.

Wisconsin Sets COVID-19 Testing Record, Another Hospitalization High

All 72 counties have COVID-19 cases for the first time.

What Comes Next in the Fight Against the Coronavirus?

Will individual choices be enough to keep a spike in cases and deaths at bay?

Evers Details $1.1 Billion Pandemic Plan

State’s share of CARES Act to ramp up testing, tracing, PPE supplies, hospitals.

The Reopen Fans Love Attacking Women

State health secretary Andrea Palm, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, others targeted.

Evers Wants 270-Day Shutdown! Nope

Republicans, talk radio spread rumor of nine-month shutdown. Governor calls it "a lie."

Why Vos, Fitzgerald Refused to Lead

They took away Gov. Evers’ power to oversee pandemic and then did nothing. Why?

Tony Evers Plays Mr. Rogers

Governor handles pandemic and Supreme Court loss with nice guy concerns for our health.

Attorney General Supports Local Health Orders

Kaul opinion finds local orders enforceable, but communities continue to rescind theirs.

Are Local “Safer at Home” Orders Legal?

Kenosha and Brown counties drop theirs, while Mayor Barrett stands by city's, says politics at play.

Wisconsin Sets New COVID-19 Testing High

Surge in testing comes as testing capacity drops because of supply shortage.

Wisconsin Politicos Respond to Safer At Home Ruling

Politicians, lobbyists and activists fall back on party line in attacking or praising decision.

Supreme Court Strikes Down “Safer at Home”

Decision goes into effect immediately. Milwaukee's order remains in effect.

Senator Larson Statement on SCOWIS decision r.e. Safer at Home Extension

8 City Nursing Homes Have COVID-19 Cases

State releases names, locations of 38 active investigations for the first time.

COVID-19 Testing Falls To One-Week Low

Three of six Badger Bounce Back plan criteria are now satisfied.

State Allows Most Retail Stores to Open

New order by Gov. Evers says stores can allow customers in, with restrictions.

Gov. Evers Announces Another Turn of the Dial for Wisconsin Businesses

GOP Road Show Attacks Evers’ Plan

Analysis: Republicans want a Badger Bounce Back, but distort details of Evers' plan.

COVID-19 Testing Capacity Drops

But state reports second highest total of tests processed in 24 hours, percent positive continues downward trend.

Gov. Evers Continues to Expand Community Testing Programs, Announces New Online Tool

Is It Safe to Reopen the State?

The data shows pandemic spreading into non-urban red counties.

Vos Suggests Changes to Evers’ Order

On stay at home policies, Republican leader says legislators more in touch with people than Evers.

Justice Suggests Evers’ Order Is ‘Tyranny’

State Supreme Court justices compare safer-at-home order to Japanese internment camps.

Ventilators ‘Almost a Death Sentence’?

Study shows they don’t work for many COVID-19 patients, state's hospitals limiting their use.

Gov. Evers Details Expanded COVID-19 Contact Tracing Efforts

Local and State public health agencies have already completed nearly 18,000 contact tracing interviews since March

State Will Test All Nursing Home Residents

38% of COVID-19 deaths were in long-term care facilities. 10,000 tests per week planned.

DHS Announces Hospital Metrics for Badger Bounce Back

Governor Evers Suspends Rules to Ensure Patient Care, Coverage Continues During COVID-19 Pandemic

Gov. Evers Announces Plan to Make Wisconsin One of the Top States in Testing Per Capita

Can Missy Hughes Help Businesses Recover?

WEDC director still hasn’t been approved by Senate, but has vital role in state’s economy.

Over 38% of Those That Died From COVID-19 Lived in Long-Term Care Facilities

Newly-public data highlights danger to those in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

State Supreme Court to Hear GOP Challenge of ‘Safer At Home’

Justices will hear oral arguments on Tuesday

GOP Listens To Business Lobby Reopening Plan

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce wants to replace the Badger Bounce Back plan with their own.

The State’s 1918 Pandemic Shutdown Worked

Milwaukee was one of four cities with lowest rate of disease, at least 30% lower than most cities.

1 in 5 Workers File For Unemployment During Pandemic

18 percent of the U.S. workforce has lost their job since the start of the pandemic.

Wisconsinites Starting To Ignore Stay-At-Home Order

State residents starting to experience “quarantine fatigue.”

DHS Releases Data About COVID-19 Public Health Investigations and Outbreaks Across Wisconsin

Some Non-Essential Businesses Can Open

Evers order says dog groomers, small engine repair, upholsterers, others can reopen with precautions.

The Quack Science of Robin Vos

He’s “not a doctor,” he says while repeatedly rejecting medical experts amid a deadly pandemic.

Gov. Evers Announces Expanded Opportunities for Certain Nonessential Businesses

Governor Evers suspends Department of Revenue Administrative Rules in order to make certain commerce safer and maintain social distancing

COVID-19 Testing Jumps Over 50 Percent To New Record, Cases Rise as Positive Rate Falls

Over 3,400 tests performed in last 24 hours, 304 new positive cases.

“This Virus Doesn’t Care”: Rep. Bowen Statement on Protest at the Capitol

“This Virus Doesn't Care”: Rep. Bowen Statement on Protest at the Capitol

Conservative Groups Twist Coronavirus Facts

Think tank MacIver Institute and grassroots group #ReopenWisconsin misuse the data on COVID-19 for political ends.

State Reports Record High COVID-19 Testing Capacity

But the number of tests performed isn't keeping pace. State officials encourage doctors to test more people.

Gov. Evers Signs Emergency Order #32, Relating to the Operation of an Alternative Care Facility at State Fair Park

Council Okays Fines for “Safer at Home” Violators

107 arrests so far by Milwaukee Police; now can issue fines of $500 to enforce state order.

Supreme Court Asked to Block State Shutdown

Republican legislators charge that ’Safer At Home’ order will leave state “in shambles.”

COVID-19 Testing Slows

State reports declining testing totals four days in a row, while positive test rate remains steady.

State Still Not Using Full Testing Capacity

Death toll from COVID-19 grows to 230, 132 in Milwaukee County.

Evers Releases ‘Badger Bounce Back’ Plan

Lays out six criteria for reopening economy, getting Wisconsin back to work.

Healthcare Orgs Support Safer At Home Extension

More than a dozen major organizations in Wisconsin signed letter praising the extension.

Wisconsin Passes 4,000 COVID-19 Cases, 200 Deaths

Statewide ventilator use drops

The MacIver Institute: Governor Evers Is Wrong To Extend “Safer at Home”

The Permanent Damage That Extending “Safer at Home” Order Will Inflict On Our Families, Friends And Neighbors Is Not Supported By Science Or Common Sense

WMC Statement on Gov. Evers’ Safer at Home Extension

Officials Want Physicians To Request More COVID-19 Tests

Testing capacity is more than triple what's being requested. Officials want doctors to test more people.

Evers Joins Six Governors in Planning Reopening

Wisconsin partners with Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.

Statement on Extension of “Shelter-in-place” to May 26th

Sen. Craig: “Evers and Palm have gone too far! The Senate must reject Palm now!”

Wisconsin’s COVID-19 Testing Capacity Doubles In Past Week

Twenty-nine labs can now process a total of 7,578 tests per day

Evers Extends “Safer at Home” Until May 26th, Loosens Restrictions

Golf courses can open, but the school year is canceled.

Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Extend Wisconsin’s Safer at Home Order

COVID-19: Safer at Home is Working

Keep up the good work, Wisconsin!

Business Groups Want State To Reopen

Pushing Evers to act within two weeks. Scientists say it's too soon.

3,341 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

ICU bed availability drops

Despite Slowing Growth Rate, No End in Sight for “Safer at Home”

"Science will determine what reopening looks like and when that will happen," said Evers.

African-Americans Hard Hit By COVID-19 Across Wisconsin

African-American disparity isn't just a Milwaukee problem.

COVID-19 Testing Capacity Continues To Outpace Actual Testing

State officials say they've expanded guidance to allow more people to be tested.

Health Officials Will Track Election Day COVID-19 Spread

It will take several weeks to see if in person voting increased transmission of the disease.

Wisconsinites Who Lose Health Insurance During COVID-19 May Be Able to Enroll on HealthCare.gov or in BadgerCare

Department of Health Services Increases Contact Tracing Capabilities

2,885 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

Death total has grown to 111, including 68 in Milwaukee County.

Gov. Evers Reiterates Options Available for Religious Gatherings and Services

2,578 COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin, 92 Deaths

Death total has grown five-fold in past week.

Supreme Court Reinstates Election, Overrules Evers

April 7th in-person election will occur as scheduled says court.

2,440 Positive Cases of COVID-19, Testing Capacity Growing

27 percent of confirmed cases have required hospitalization.

Who Will Be Denied Medical Resources?

State’s disability groups call for equal treatment should life-saving supplies need to be rationed.

Wisconsin Reports 2,122 Positive COVID-19 Cases, 56 Deaths

Despite record increases, officials believe curve is flattening, "safer at home" working.

GOP Lame-Duck Law Blocks COVID-19 Aid

State GOP was warned of unintended consequences to their law in 2018.

1,550 COVID-19 Cases, Biggest One Day Increase

State reports 26 percent of individuals with confirmed cases are hospitalized.

State Races To Do More COVID-19 Testing

But faces problem: shortage of everything.

Milwaukee Prepares for COVID-19 Surge

More hospital capacity, ventilators, protective equipment needed for coming onslaught.

Trump Downplays Pandemic in Midwest

Reality: as one Wisconsin doctor put it, a COVID-19 “tsunami” is coming.

1,351 Positive COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin, 674 in Milwaukee County

State working with private partners to double testing capacity.

Will Trump Help State Get Medical Supplies?

Still won’t use Defense Production Act to ramp up production. Baldwin pushes for action.

Evers Urges Legislators to Convene

“We still need” state solutions to coming surge of COVID-19 patients, he warns.

State Has 1,221 COVID-19 Cases, Exploring Field Hospital Locations

State says data on hospitalization coming soon.

Evers, Republicans Spar on Holding Election

Governor wants all vote-by-mail election, Fitzgerald blasts idea, "this is ridiculous.”

Study Projects 853 COVID-19 Deaths in Wisconsin, 81,114 Nationwide

Based on limited data, study predicts Wisconsin may not see its peak until May 22nd, last in the country.

Evers Acts to Boost Healthcare Workforce

Relaxes rules to allow state’s 2,750-plus physician assistants to help provide pandemic care.

Over 1,000 COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

State reports over 2,000 tests processed in one day for the first time.

Gov. Evers Issues Order to Expedite Expansion, Enhance Efficiency of Healthcare Workforce   

842 COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin, “Crisis Within A Crisis” in Milwaukee

Evers acknowledges disparate racial impact in Milwaukee, says CDC is studying matter.

Governor Evers Blocks Evictions, Foreclosures During Pandemic

Emergency order in effect for 60 days.

Press Release: Gov. Evers Suspends Evictions and Foreclosures During Public Health Emergency

MacIver Institute To Gov. Tony Evers: Now Is The Time To Share With Wisconsin Basic Public Information About Covid-19

Gov. Evers Launches Wisconsin’s COVID-19 PPE Program

Half of Wisconsin Counties Have COVID-19 Cases

Officials caution that it will be confirmed everywhere. 707 total cases in Wisconsin.

State Has Biggest One-Day Jump in COVID-19 Cases

585 cases Wednesday, up from 457 Tuesday, and 7 deaths, as disease spreads.

State Reports 457 COVID-19 Cases, Up From 416

But officials say actual total is higher. "We have a limited window into the number of cases."

Governor Issues “Safer at Home” Order

Starting Wednesday no playdates or team sports. People must "start taking this seriously."

Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Issue Safer at Home Order

State Has One-Day Drop in COVID-19 Tests

For first time in a week, the growth rate of new cases, positive and negative, slows.

Nurses Prepare for COVID-19 Onslaught

State’s hospitals short on beds, protective gear and staff, though some see reason to hope.

281 COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin, Four Deaths

Case count is lagging indicator of effectiveness of social distancing, other measures.

Gov. Evers, DHS Announce Updated Mass Gatherings Order

Evers Doesn’t Believe Wisconsin Will Need “Shelter in Place” Order

COVID-19 cases rising exponentially, now at 206, state working on supply shortages

Gov. Evers Confirms Two COVID-19 Deaths in Wisconsin

106 Cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin

Cases continue to grow, as does the rate of growth.

Gov. Evers Orders Scaling Down of all Child Care Settings

State’s Day Care Centers Still Open

Top state health official says need to keep centers open outweighs medical reasons to close.

72 Cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin

And state closes all bars and restaurants. "Stay home if you can," says Gov. Evers.

Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Limit Gatherings to Less Than 10 to Slow Spread of COVID-19

Measures also being taken to manage testing capacity in Wisconsin

Evers Says State Bars, Restaurants Can Stay Open

But must operate at 50 percent of their fire code capacity or 50 people maximum.

47 Cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin

One had recovered and 504 negative tests. Cases and testing resources continue to grow.

Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Prohibit Mass Gatherings of 50 People or More

Gov. Evers Mandates Closing All K-12 Schools

Governor expects to reopen schools on April 6.

First Coronavirus (COVID-19) Case Confirmed in the City of Milwaukee

Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Mandate Statewide Closure of All K-12 Wisconsin Schools

Evers Addresses COVID-19 in Wisconsin

Governor declares state of emergency, urges closure of large events.

How to Pass Expanded Medicaid Bill

Evers needs to be more strategic with Republicans.

Open Enrollment on HealthCare.gov Extended

Big Decline in State’s ACA Recipients

State sees 15% decline, Milwaukee County 26% drop in those covered by Obamacare.

Evers Signs ‘Telehealth’ Bill

Medicaid patients who get health care delivered long-distance now qualify for coverage.

Gov. Evers Signs Senate Bill 380 to Expand Health Care Access via Telehealth Services

"Wisconsin residents deserve access to quality health care, regardless of where they live in our state.”

Paging 402,000 People Lacking Health Care

Evers administration urges enrollment in state health insurance marketplace. You have until December 15.

Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes, Sen. Baldwin, and State and Local Officials Announce Beginning of Open Enrollment for Health Insurance Market

State officials announce the launch of “From Confused to Covered” campaign to educate Wisconsinites on health care options

Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline Marks One Year of Service

Hotline connects callers to substance use treatment and recovery options

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Retirement Security

"Everyone should have the opportunity to save for their future and no one should have to worry about making ends meet or their financial security in retirement."

Too Many Wisconsinites Without Health Insurance

Evers' Health Secretary funding effort to increase number of insured.

Governor Evers’ Administration Works to Get More Wisconsinites Covered

“Every Wisconsinite deserves access to affordable, quality health care and it’s time to work together to get folks covered,” said Governor Evers.

Wisconsin Celebrates Advances in Using Health Information Technology

Wisconsin ranked #2 nationwide in meaningful use of health technology

Governor Evers’ Task Force on Caregiving Holds First Meeting in Milwaukee

The 29-member group has goals to increase caregiver workforce, improve conditions for direct care workers, and provide support for family caregivers

Department of Health Services Teams with the Milwaukee Brewers to Promote Immunizations

Catchers Yasmani Grandal and Manny Pina star in Spanish language public service announcements

DHS Lead Abatement Program Receives Federal Approval

Efforts will improve housing conditions for low-income children and pregnant women

New Data Analysis Shows Impact of Suicide in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's updated suicide prevention plan will be released later this year

Majority of Wisconsin Lung Disease Patients Who Reported Vaping Cite THC Products

The investigation of lung disease among people who reported vaping is ongoing

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #41 Recreating the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

DHS Takes Coordinated Approach to Dealing with Opioid Addiction

Treatment program will operate in two rural communities and one urban area.

Older Age Groups Now Included in Investigation of Lung Disease Among People Who Reported Vaping

These patients experienced shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, cough, and weight loss.

Gov. Evers’ Budget Gives Wisconsin Reason to Smile, $2 Million Will Expand Dental Services, $1 million for Free and Charitable Health Centers

"The health of our teeth can affect our overall well-being."

Rep. Robyn Vining Co-Sponsors NEW Medicaid Expansion Legislation

"Medicaid expansion is what the people want and it’s what they deserve."

New Cases Identified in Investigation of Lung Disease Among Teens and Young Adults Who Reported Vaping

DHS urges Wisconsinites to avoid vaping and e-cigarettes

Evers Seeks Ways to Expand Health Coverage

Governor wants to get more people insurance coverage beyond Medicaid expansion Republicans oppose.

Evers Will “Fight Like Hell” for Medicaid

Republicans will strip Medicaid expansion from budget. Poll showed 70% support Evers proposal.

Gov. Evers and DHS Secretary-designee Palm Announce Community-Specific Data for DHS Budget Proposal

"My budget proposal draws down $1.6 billion in new federal funding into Wisconsin so we can improve healthcare in communities across the state."

Gov. Evers Announces the Popular SeniorCare Program Will Continue for the Next Decade

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approves terms and conditions to extend the prescription drug assistance program

Republicans Call for Reset of Evers’ Budget

Governor’s cabinet members get hammered on many issues by GOP legislators.

Gov. Evers Advocates for Expanding Medicaid in Visits to Janesville, Beloit

"By expanding Medicaid in Wisconsin, our budget improves access to quality, affordable health care for people across our state."

State Officials Meet to Tackle Drug Epidemic

Two-Day conference focuses on opioids, which killed 916 users in 2017.

Why Medicaid Expansion Needed

Key to expanding health coverage, better reimbursement rates, says new state DHS secretary.

Governor Evers Makes Historic Investments in Health Care Coverage and Access

“Governor Evers’ budget makes historic investments in the health and well-being of every Wisconsinite,” said Secretary Designee Palm.

Wisconsin Food and Nutrition Programs Will Continue Despite Federal Government Shutdown

FoodShare members will receive their February benefits this month

Evers Taps Barca, Former Obama Official

Rep. Barca will run revenue department, Andrea Palm will run Health Services.

Governor-elect Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Barnes Announce Cabinet Members

"This talented group of leaders will help our administration address the issues Wisconsin residents asked us to focus on."