Representative Shelia Stubbs Celebrates Governor Evers’ Executive Order #254, Creating Office of Violence Prevention

MADISON, WI – Today, Governor Tony Evers held a press conference at the State Capitol announcing Executive Order #254, which will create the Office of Violence Prevention. Representative Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) released the following statement:

“I stand in full support of Governor Evers’ executive order to create the Office of Violence Prevention and his proposal to allocate $10 million in ARPA funding to finance the creation of the office, as well as the administration of violence prevention grants to local governments, community organizations, school districts, law enforcement, and firearm dealers.

Since 2021, I have repeatedly introduced legislation that would create an Office of Violence Prevention and establish a community violence intervention grant program because I recognize the importance of having a coordinated, collaborative approach toward preventing violence in our state. I have been a longtime advocate for violence prevention efforts, and I am so pleased that Governor Evers has taken this initiative; we cannot wait any longer to make these critical investments in the safety of our communities.

According to Everytown, guns are the leading cause of death among children and teens in our state. In our state, the rate of gun deaths has increased 45% from 2013 to 2022, compared to a nationwide increase of 36%. In an average year, 708 people die and 1,686 are wounded by guns in Wisconsin. These statistics are both unacceptable and preventable.

Now is the time to take decisive action to protect our children, our families, and our neighbors. Especially after the tragic shooting that recently took place at Abundant Life Christian School in my new district, I remain committed to introducing and advocating for legislation that prioritizes public safety and addresses the root causes of all kinds of violence.

Establishing the Office of Violence Prevention is a critical step toward decreasing violence in our state, empowering local communities, and ensuring that we prevent tragedies before they occur. I thank Governor Evers for recognizing the importance of having a dedicated violence prevention office, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts that the Office of Violence Prevention will have on our state.”

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.