Last week was Ag Day at the Capitol, one of my favorite events. I met with Farm Bureau members from Lafayette, Grant, Crawford, Iowa, and Green Counties. I’m grateful to all the farmers who took time out of their busy schedules to speak to us on their priorities and concerns for the state.

Key topics we discussed included:

●  Agriculture Road Improvement Program (ARIP): As the nation’s first dedicated agriculture-specific road funding program, ARIP addresses the often-overlooked roadways that support our agriculture industry. We’ve received positive feedback on its outcomes, and I remain committed to supporting this program.

●  Biofuels Incentive Package: Currently, Wisconsin is the only Midwestern state without biofuels support. This legislation would provide vital assistance to farmers. I introduced this package last session and plan to do so again this session.

●  Dairy and Meat Processing Grants: Many farmers have shared their concerns about the limited options for dairy and meat processing facilities. These grants aim to help businesses expand capacity, improve efficiency, and strengthen the supply chain. I supported the creation of this program and will continue advocating for it.

As the most agriculture-reliant district in the state, I’m always looking for ways to better support our farmers. Thank you to everyone who participated in Ag Day. I look forward to continuing to represent you.

Create Wisconsin

This week, we were visited by Alyssa Zasada, Anne Katz, and Christina Kubasta. Both Alyssa and Christina are from Mineral Point and work for the Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts. Anne is the Director at Create Wisconsin and a great champion for rural arts communities.

During our meeting, we discussed legislative priorities for the creative arts economy. This included the bill I am authoring to create a Rural Creative Economy Grant Program.

I have seen firsthand the value that nonprofits like Shake Rag Alley provide to the rural communities in my district. Not only do they help bring in revenue through tourism, but they also provide creative opportunities that are essential to our culture. I look forward to continuing my support for the rural arts!

Lafayette County Municipal Meeting

This week, I spoke at the annual Municipality Meeting hosted by the Lafayette County Highway Department. With construction season fast approaching, it was great to hear about the upcoming projects they will be working on with each local municipality.

In a constantly changing legislative environment, it is crucial for us to collaborate closely with county highway staff. This ensures we are not only following state regulations but also making the most of state funding for our county roads. Thank you to everyone for your hard work. I look forward to continuing our efforts together.

Restoring Access to Public Records

This year I have introduced LRB 2241. The goal of this Bill is to restore the historic interpretation of public records law by allowing courts to determine if requesters are entitled to reasonable attorney’s fees, regardless of when delayed public records requests are fulfilled.

This legislation is necessary following the 2022 Wisconsin Supreme Court decision in Friends of Frame Park, U.A. v. City of Waukesha, which narrowly redefined the term “prevail” and incentivized governmental bodies to delay releasing public records until legal action was taken against them. By codifying the previously broader definition of “prevail,” LRB 2241 aims to eliminate these delays.

As a former news paper editor, I understand how important easy access to public records is for maintaining proper checks and balances on government. This bill would ensure that organizations can obtain open records without wasting resources on attorney fees. The bill received strong bi-partisan support last session, and I hope to continue building momentum this time around.

Budget Listening Sessions

We are in the midst of the 2025-2027 budget process. The legislature is currently compiling our recommendations, which will then be reviewed and voted on by the Joint Finance Committee (JFC).

The JFC will also hold listening sessions across the state, providing residents an opportunity to share their comments and input on the budget. For dates and times of these sessions, please check out https://legis.wisconsin.gov/topics/budgetcomments/.

— Rep. Todd Novak represents Wisconsin’s 51st Assembly District. He can be reached at 608-237-9151 or email rep.novak@legis.wisconsin.gov.