The Maternal Mortality Crisis

Honoring those Lost to Domestic Violence with Pledges to Act

Last year, 47 people lost their lives to domestic violence in Wisconsin. I joined in speaking at Zonta's Domestic Violence Press Conference to raise awareness on the issue, and why we must continue working to build communities.

Fighting for Lower Prescription Drug Costs

The cost of prescription drugs is squeezing the pockets of the Americans – forcing them to make decisions they shouldn’t have to make, like whether to fill a prescription refill or other necessities. I had the opportunity to speak at Froedtert Hospital, the Medical College of Wisconsin’s Cancer Center, about why health care is so personal to me. I also touched on how House Democrats are taking meaningful action on their commitment to lower the prescription drug costs, with legislation like H.R. 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act.

Touring Milwaukee's Local Businesses

Working to Keep Babies Safe

Shocking research uncovered that 95 percent of tested baby food had toxic chemicals, including arsenic and lead. I wrote a letter along with 15 of my colleagues, to the FDA to reiterate the dangers of a child’s development with even mild exposure to these toxic chemicals and demand action. No parent should have to worry about if the food they purchase for their children is safe to eat.

Calling for a Repeal of the Hyde Amendment

The Hyde Amendment has denied abortion coverage for low-income patients using Medicaid. I called for a repeal to the Hyde Amendment to ensure that patients, no matter their income, can make decisions about their own bodies.

Visiting Milwaukee Students and Faculty

Ronald Wilson Reagan College Preparatory High School is a nationally-recognized International Baccalaureate World School that gives students the opportunity to earn college credit for their advanced class. I had the privilege to speak with some exceptional students and faculty on the importance of using their voices at a young age to spark change.

Expanding Economic Opportunity for Low-Income Americans

Great news: My legislation that expands the Health Professions to Opportunity Grant Program (HPOG) was approved in the Ways and Means Committee! HPOG affords TANF recipients access to education and training to pursue health care professions. This legislation takes a critical step towards expanding economic opportunity for low-income women while expanding the workforce that can address the maternal mortality crisis.

Milwaukee communities are still grappling with the lead poisoning crisis, but the city recently received funding to help rid our communities of lead. I joined Mayor Barrett and community leaders in announcing a grant that will fund the lead abatement program and help keep children and families safe.

Credit unions have a special place in my heart. I started my public service as a VISTA volunteer and opened a credit union in my neighborhood to help the underserved gain access to financial capital. I touched on the work we must continue at the Cream City Chapter of Credit Unions Legislative Night. 

Recognizing the Next Wave of Public Servants

I had the honor of swearing in more than 400 Americorps members at Wisconsin’s swearing-in ceremony. It was an exciting event for everyone. I know these public servants will make a huge difference in the communities they serve.

To see what else I've been up to, check out my "October in Photos" Facebook album.