MADISON – Representative Jim Steineke (R-Kaukauna) displayed his support for clean Wisconsin water today through a number of votes for bills that promote better, cleaner water throughout the state. Rep. Steineke voted in favor of each bill from the bipartisan Speaker’s Task Force on Water Quality recommendations, along with a bill that removes barriers to improve wetlands.
“The bills I voted for today are a clear indicator that, like so many in Wisconsin, our water is a top priority of mine,” said Rep. Steineke. “I’m confident that the bills we passed today will be critical in ensuring we continue to have safe, clean water for everyone.”
After traveling the state holding public hearings to hear from farmers, conservationists, academics, sportsmen, and residents alike, the Speaker’s Task Force on Water Quality recommended 13 bills aimed at improving Wisconsin’s ground and surface water. The package of bills addresses water issues that come from agricultural, residential, and industrial uses, representing a $10 million investment to ensure clean water for future generations.
Additionally, Assembly Bill 701, co-authored by Rep. Steineke, cuts red tape to allow environmental groups to improve wetlands and overall hydrology issues to help prevent flooding. The goal of the bill is to streamline the permitting process for wetland, stream, and floodplain restoration, resulting in healthier wetlands across the state.
“I am proud to have supported these bills today that I know will make a huge impact on our state’s water, whether that be drinking and well water, our lakes and streams, or our wetlands,” continued Rep. Steineke. “Although such a complex issue can’t be addressed overnight, I am confident that we are taking the important steps necessary to ensure our children and grandchildren will get to enjoy the pristine water Wisconsin is known for.”
The water quality initiatives passed today now head to the state Senate for consideration.
