A Bi-partisan group of State Senators, and Representatives, voted to pass, AB306/SB310. Relating to time limits on local units of government, chief executive officer emergency power proclamations.

Madison, WI – State Representative Sylvia Ortiz-Velez, wants to give a special thank you to Rep. Brent Jacobson, Senator Tomczyk and Milwaukee County Supervisor Patti Logsdon.

AB306/SB310, addresses concerns of abuse of power, it makes sure that checks and balances, that are intended, remain intact, within our three-branch system. Especially, and specifically, during the state of emergencies, at the local level.

No, governmental local unit, at the city, village, or county level, should ever be in a position, where they have to understand their roles, while emergencies are occurring and they need to govern. Especially, in a time, when the third branch might not be operating at their full capacities.

Wisconsin State Statutes 323.10, which deals with the Wisconsin Legislative branch and the Governor, it allows for a definitive deadline of 60 days. At which time, the 1st branch, must give an extension. This bill makes it equal to that.

Through discussions with the Wisconsin Counties Association, it was brought to our attention that there is not a definition for Chief Executive Officer at the County level. This creates confusion about who the chief executive officer is, because our counties have different structures.

For media inquiries please contact Rep.Ortiz-Velez@legis.wisconsin.gov, at 608-237-9108.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.