Consumer Protection

Organic Advisory Council Nominations Sought Through March 20

Evers Releases Anti-Vaping Agenda

Package of politics targets youth vaping, a “serious public health epidemic.”

Q&A With Circuit Court Candidates Part Two

Blomme, Dedinsky and Whitney make their case for election to Branch 5. Part Two

Q&A With Circuit Court Candidates

Blomme, Dedinsky and Whitney make their case for election to Branch 5. Part 1 of two-part story.

Democrats Introduce “Raising the Bar on Clean Water” Legislative Package

The package consists of five bills which repeal a multitude of regressive Republican water policies.

Gov. Evers Takes Action to Address Youth Vaping

“Vaping is a serious public health epidemic and it is time to take action," said Evers.

Representative Lisa Subeck Testifies on Pair of Bills Addressing Food Allergies

State Lost 10% of Dairy Farms in 2019

Low milk prices blamed for record breaking loss of farms.

Questions, Answers About 2020 Census

How do I know if it's a real census worker at the door?

Top 10 Political Stories of 2019

Lots of drama in last year of the decade. Which were the biggest stories?

Another Evers Cabinet Pick Under Fire

Republicans won’t approve Dawn Crim, Secretary of the Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Senate Democrats Offer 2020 Agenda

Shilling pushes homeless funding and closing dark store tax loophole.

Farm Pollution Rules May Get Killed

Big business lobby WMC and Big Agriculture donors oppose the rules.

Evers Signs Industrial Hemp Bill

Hemp becoming state’s “comeback crop,” Republican Sen. Testin says.

Gov. Evers Signs the Growing Opportunities Act

This bill makes needed changes to Wisconsin's current laws regarding hemp production in the state of Wisconsin due to the passage of the federal 2018 Farm Bill.

Gov. Evers Signs Eleven More Bills

New Marquette Law School Poll finds shifts in Wisconsin public opinion favorable to President Trump on impeachment and presidential election preferences

Trump holds small leads over each of four top Democratic candidates for president in head-to-head matchups in the new survey

Gov. Evers Attends GridEx V Exercise at the Wisconsin Dept. of Military Affairs

“Exercises like GridEx are a key part of that process and offer a great opportunity for the private and public sector to come together to protect Wisconsin's infrastructure and communities from disaster.”

Rep. Considine on Hemp Bill Passing the Assembly

This legislation updates state law regarding hemp, and creates more certainty for hemp producers, processors, and consumers in Wisconsin.

Meet Evers’ New Ag Advisor, Brad Pfaff

Governor’s fired Agriculture Secretary now the Department of Administration’s director of business and rural development.

Assembly to Vote on New Hemp Law

New rules will affect 1,247 hemp growers and 556 hemp processors in the state.

The Path to Brad Pfaff’s Firing

Why GOP legislators shot down Agriculture Secretary. And why Evers was incensed.

Gov. Evers Appoints Randy Romanski as Interim DATCP Secretary

Romanski has held leadership roles across various Wisconsin state agencies, and previously served as DATCP deputy secretary and secretary under former Gov. Jim Doyle.

Senate Fires State Agriculture Secretary

Every Republican votes not to approve Evers appointee Brad Pfaff.

In Rejecting Pfaff the Message was clear, Dissent Won’t be Allowed in Wisconsin

"Brad Pfaff was raised on a farm here in Wisconsin, is eminently qualified for this job, and deserved better than this from legislative Republicans."

Majority Leader Fitzgerald Statement on Vote to Reject Evers’ Ag Secretary, Protect Farmers

"The liberal Evers Administration has been no friend to farmers."

Fitzgerald, Senate Republicans Ignore Farmers, Rural Communities, Leave Agriculture Agency Without Dept. Head in the Midst of Dairy, Trade Crises

Republicans reject gubernatorial cabinet nominee for the first time in modern state history

Farm Groups Support Agriculture Secretary

Republicans threaten to force firing of Evers’ secretary Brad Pfaff; farm groups object.

Wisconsin Collects More Than 30 Tons of Unused Medications During Drug Take Back Day; Ranks Second in Nation

Statewide 280 law enforcement agencies hosted Drug Take Back events and collected disposed drugs from 476 permanent drug disposal boxes at law enforcement agencies across the state.

Roundup: Agriculture Stakeholders Press Fitzgerald, Senate Republicans to Confirm DATCP Sec. Brad Pfaff

In calls for stability, certainty in the midst of dairy and trade crises, stakeholders urge confirmation of agriculture secretary

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls for Wisconsin State Legislature to Confirm Brad Pfaff as State Agriculture Secretary

"State legislative Republicans should not let politics get in the way of helping our farmers when they are dealing with many difficult challenges."

Fitzgerald, Senate Republicans Signal Plans to Fire Gov. Evers’ Agriculture Secretary in Midst of Dairy Crisis

Senate Republicans poised to reject gubernatorial cabinet nominee for first time in modern Wisconsin history

Republican Pettiness Threatens Family Farmers

"At a time when Wisconsin is losing dairy farms daily and suicide rates for farmers are rising, it is unacceptable and callous for Republicans to obstruct the appointment of Secretary Pfaff."

Legislators May Hike Public Defenders Pay

Plan would more closely align state public defenders’ pay with that of state prosecutors.

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices

The first meeting of the Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices is scheduled for November 20.

Wisconsin Natural Resources Board Taking More Steps to Protect Drinking Water

PFAS Rulemaking Process Moves Forward

Gov. Evers Endorses Water Quality Recommendations from DNR, DATCP, DHS

“Folks should be able to trust the water coming from their tap”

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #52 Relating to Climate Change in Wisconsin

"For too long we've been ignoring science, and frankly, we can't afford to do it any longer."

Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former State Representative Joseph Tregoning

"State Representative Tregoning was a dedicated public servant, active in his community, and a great advocate for farmers across our state."

Hemp Could Make Money for County

New report says Mitchell Park greenhouses could grow valuable hemp clones.

Hemp Growers Assail State Regulators

Delays by state in testing fields means some growers lose valuable crops.

“Hemp is as American as the Constitution”

Industrial hemp has great potential as a cash crop for Wisconsin farmers.

Could Legal Marijuana Revitalize Communities?

State legislatures set the rules impacting who will succeed in the marijuana business.

Evers, Governors Push Congress on PFAS

15 governors call for tougher standards, more protections on PFAS chemicals.

DATCP and City of Milwaukee Health Department Suspend Meat and Food Processing at Outpost Natural Foods

Insanitary conditions were discovered during a routine inspection and ready-to-eat products tested positive for Salmonella.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #40 Relating to PFAS in Wisconsin

Executive Order #40 directs the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to take additional steps to address PFAS contamination.

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to the Board of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

“I am pleased to appoint Patty, Dan, and Carla to the DATCP Board.”

Rep. Shankland: Governor Evers Leads on Preventing Nitrate Contamination

"These new efforts by the Governor, DNR, and DATCP tackle the root of our pollution runoff problems and will help to prevent future nitrate contamination."

Gov. Evers Directs Agencies to Address Nitrate Contamination in Ground and Surface Water

"I am committed to protecting Wisconsin’s waters and ensuring every Wisconsinite has access to clean drinking water."

Republicans Abandon Small Family Farmers

Farmers are asking for our help, and the majority party’s inaction yesterday was absolutely a matter of abandoning our farmers by putting politics before their lives.

GOP Legislators Delay Funds for Homeless, Farmers

Evers, Democrats push for state spending approved in budget, Republicans want review by Senate.

New DNR Head Has Agenda of Change

Climate change, lead laterals and CAFO-polluted private wells are top concerns.

VerdaSure lowers risk for hemp farmers

Bringing high tech testing to support Wisconsin farming entrepreneurs

Under Evers, DNR Restores Science

New groundwater standards and science-based approaches to chemical pollution.

Sierra Club Welcomes Action on PFAS

"Sierra Club welcomes the strong and swift action taken by the Evers Administration to address the newly identified family of pollutants of high concern, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS."

Department of Health Services, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection Work to Make Groundwater Cleaner

DHS Has Sent New Groundwater Recommendations to DNR

Gov. Evers Proclaims June 19th ‘Juneteenth Day’ in Wisconsin

"This is a time to recognize the struggles of African Americans in our country’s modern history."

Legislators Okay $1 Billion for UW Projects

Budget committee approves some 40 projects, including UWM Chemistry Building.

Hemp Industry Calls for Updated State Law

Hemp farmers, businesses say new federal law made state hemp regulations obsolete.

Rep. Sargent’s Lonely Pro-Pot Campaign

Democrat has pushed for full legalization for years, with few politicians joining her. Until now.

Gov. Evers Secures Advantage for Wisconsin Citizens Applying for USDA’s ReConnect Program

The governor’s budget proposes a $78 million investment in the state’s Broadband Expansion Grant Program.

Drug Take Back Day is April 27

"Through proper disposal, we can prevent prescription drugs from being diverted—and help prevent addiction."

Growing Opportunities Act Introduced to Reinforce Expanding Hemp Industry

Bi-partisan Authors Optimistic about Crop’s Future

AG Kaul Issues Victim Restitution for 447 Wisconsin Consumers

"One of DOJ’s important functions is enforcing our consumer-protection laws."

The Double Standard of Duey Stroebel

He attacks Evers appointee while ignoring “Ethical Baggage” of 13 Walker appointees.

Governor Walker Appoints St. Croix County Judge and Ashland County District Attorney

Governor Scott Walker today appointed Attorney Scott J. Nordstrand to serve as a judge on the St. Croix County Circuit Court and Attorney David Meany to the position of Ashland County District Attorney.

County Looks to Grow Hemp at the Domes

Proceeds could be used for Domes' aging infrastructure.

Governor Walker Appoints Paul Dedinsky to Serve as Milwaukee County Judge

Paul Dedinsky has over 25 years of legal practice including over 20 years serving as a prosecutor in Milwaukee County from 1997-2017.

Governor-elect Evers Announces Additional Cabinet Appointments

"As Governor, my focus will always be the people of our state, and a key part of that is bringing together a cabinet that shares my goal of solving problems rather than picking political fights."

In Major Victory for American Consumers and Organic Farmers, Baldwin’s Legislation to Combat Fraudulent Organic Imports Heads to the President’s Desk

Baldwin’s legislation fights back against fraud, delivers on Inspector General recommendations, and protects integrity of USDA organic standards for consumers and Wisconsin farmers

Senate Majority Leader Fitzgerald Announces Senate Standing Committees, Chairs

"I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate this session as we continue to pass reforms that put hard-working families first."

Walker Rewards Restaurant Association?

They gave him $38,000, his board bans city’s food safety ratings of restaurants.

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Applauds Senate Passage of Bipartisan Farm Bill That Includes Major Investments for Wisconsin Farmers and Rural Communities

Bipartisan legislation includes improved risk management tools for dairy farmers, grants for Dairy Business Innovation, mental health resources for farmers and provisions to combat fraudulent organic imports

State Ruling Threatens City Health?

Killing city’s restaurant rating system could increase food-borne illness in Milwaukee.

Food grading system decision ignores wishes of Milwaukee consumers, business owners

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - November 29, 2018

City’s Restaurant Grading System Threatened

State board votes to prohibit system grading restaurants for food safety.

Businesses and officials: Keep Milwaukee’s popular food grading system

State board poised to eliminate popular grading system for food establishments; news conference set for Monday

Foxconn and WEDC partner to showcase Wisconsin companies at the first China International Import Expo

Foxconn promotes “Smart Future” vision with ten leading Wisconsin companies

Walker, Evers On Wisconsin’s Drinking Water Woes

Evers says lack of local input and DNR scientists are root cause of drinking water problems

Does Wisconsin Need an Alcohol Czar?

State struggles with host of issues involved in regulating the alcohol industry.

Governor Walker Attends Opening of Farm Discovery Center

Highlights the importance of Wisconsin agriculture

Governor Walker Announces Dairy Task Force 2.0 Members at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Votes to Pass Bipartisan 2018 Senate Farm Bill

Final bipartisan bill includes key reforms authored by Senator Baldwin to support Wisconsin farmers

Governor Walker Announces $500,000 Workforce Training Grant to Support Great Lakes Cheese Expansion in Wausau

Governor marks Wisconsin Cheese Day by awarding WEDC grant that will assist company with training its workers in new $95 million cheese packaging plant in Wausau

Governor Walker Announces $200,000 Grant to the Center for Dairy Research to Support Entrepreneurship Program

Governor marks Wisconsin Cheese Day by awarding WEDC grant that will support program that assists companies in development of new dairy technologies

Governor Announces Winner of the 35th Annual Virginia Hart Special Recognition Award

Ms. Stanford Taylor was honored at a ceremony in the Senate Parlor at the State Capitol this afternoon.

Republican confusion threatens hemp industry

Republican flip-flops create uncertainty for farmers and families

Governor Walker Signs Bills on Improving Family Access to High-Quality Child Care, Creating Transitional Jobs Program for Wisconsin Veterans, and Increasing Funding for Watershed Protection Grants

Governor Walker signs 64 bills into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol

How to Choose An Income Tax Preparer

Tips on how to find a good professional and avoid shady operators.

McCabe calls for ending 2 state subsidies benefiting select few to invest in community prosperity

“If a program works, keep it and fund it. If it doesn’t work, get rid of it.”

Bi-Partisan Legislation to Update County Population Threshold Passes the State Assembly

In the next census, Dane County will surpass 500,000 residents and would, without this change, be subject to laws written for application only in Milwaukee County.

Wisconsin Exports Up 6% in 2017

State sets new record in exports to Mexico and China as shipments of industrial machinery, electrical machinery, vehicles, and plastics are up worldwide

Should City Buy 500 Acres in Racine County?

Council resolution would order city to study buying land for Foxconn City.

Governor Walker Calls Special Election for 10th Senate District

Circulation of nomination papers for candidates may begin today, November 10.

Proposal Would Grow Central City Farms

Two Milwaukee legislators envision urban farms rising in 30th St. Corridor.

Hemp’s Time Has Come

Benefits of legalization are many. Will legislature, Walker approve it?

Bill Targets Evictions, Housing Discrimination

1 in 8 families evicted every two years. Rep. Crawley’s bill aims at problem.

Senator Vinehout Pleased with Committee Passage of Hemp Bill

"Hemp has tremendous possibilities in growing our rural economy..."

Seminars to provide advice to businesses on securing financing to launch, grow exporting efforts

WEDC, DATCP, SBA to host seven events statewide

In Multi-Agency Effort, Wisconsin Sends Resources to Hurricane Harvey

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims as they recover from this devastating storm."