As your state representative, I work hard to promote and pass a proactive agenda that reflects our shared, progressive values. While there are many policies the political right and left do not agree on, I believe it is absolutely critical for us to find compromise and work together on important issues where we are in agreement. That’s our job!
While I may represent one of the most Democratic districts in the State Assembly, I am incredibly proud of the bipartisan legislation I have been able to advance this session. One of the most important bills I worked on this session is the infant safety seat legislation that I authored with Rep. Amy Loudenbeck (R-Clinton) and Sen. Luther Olsen (R-Ripon). This legislation saves children’s lives by bringing our outdated state law in line with the medical community and safety experts who recommend infants should be rear-facing in their car seats until age 2. Research shows that children under the age of 2 simply do not have the muscle and skeletal strength to protect themselves from a serious head or neck injury when forward-facing in their car seats in an accident. This legislation passed committees in both the Senate and Assembly and we are hopeful it will be scheduled for a vote before the full Legislature!
Another bipartisan piece of legislation I am working on this session is with Rep. Samantha Kerkman (R-Salem) and requires manufacturers to place safety caps on liquid nicotine cartridges. Unlike traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This lapse in regulation includes liquid nicotine, a key ingredient in electronic cigarettes. This is problematic because liquid nicotine is sold in colorful packages and comes in flavors like gummy bear, cotton candy, bubble gum, cupcake, root beer float and other flavors that appeal to young children. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, the number of cases of liquid nicotine poisoning has increased exponentially over the last four years. As little as a teaspoon can kill a small child. This legislation had a public hearing in the Assembly, and I’m optimistic about its progress.
Finally, I’ve been working with Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau), Senate Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) and State Representative Joel Kleefisch (R-Oconomowoc) to pass an address confidentiality program which protects victims of domestic abuse. Often referred to as “Safe-at-Home” legislation, this bill allows victims of abuse, harassment and stalking to establish a PO Box address through the Department of Justice, instead of having to list use their personal mailing address. Thirty-four other states have passed similar legislation and it is time we provide this desperately needed relief to Wisconsinites.
So many of the bills I have introduced this session originated with ideas from my constituents. As always, if you have an idea for legislation or have a question about existing legislation please contact my office at 608-266-5342 or by email at Rep.Taylor@legis.wi.gov.