Progressive Thinking

Senator Smith highlights a new report on the state of childcare in Wisconsin which found that parents are giving up an estimated $1.1 billion in lost income to solve their childcare needs by leaving the workforce.

MADISON - The child care crisis in Wisconsin is undeniable and urgent. As child care centers continue to close across the state, the impact on our families, workforce and economy grows faster. This crisis is not just a result of the pandemic—it’s a symptom of decades of underfunding and unsustainable business models in early childcare and education.

Last year Republicans turned their backs on Wisconsin families by allowing the Joint Finance Committee to give up on the Child Care Counts Program. In response, Gov. Tony Evers directed $170 million in emergency funding to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) to continue the program at current levels through June 2025. With the consequences of inaction too great to ignore, we should address this issue head-on in January at the beginning of a new legislative session.

Child care providers in Wisconsin operate on razor-thin margins. Child care is labor-intensive and requires highly trained professionals. It’s been stretched to the breaking point. Staffing shortages plague the sector, with many classrooms closing due to a lack of qualified workers. This, in turn, forces parents—especially women—out of the workforce as they struggle to find affordable care for their children.

According to a new report by the UW Institute for Research on Poverty’s Department of Children and Families, the economic toll is staggering. Wisconsin is losing an estimated $1.1 billion per year in lost productivity, earnings and tax revenue due to child care challenges.

For most families in Wisconsin, child care is simply unaffordable. The average cost of center-based care for an infant is approximately $12,500 per year, or 16% of the median household income. This burden is comparable to the cost of tuition at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Yet, child care must be paid upfront and in cash, placing a tremendous strain on young families. Even worse, the true cost of providing care—about $33,715 per infant—far exceeds what most providers can charge, leading to inadequate wages for child care workers and an unsustainable business model.

It’s clear that child care providers are being forced to choose between staying afloat and offering affordable, quality care. Teachers in these centers make an average of $13.55 per hour, far below the average wage of $28.34 for Wisconsin workers. Many lack health benefits, further exacerbating turnover and workforce shortages.

Child care providers continue to face rising costs, while too many Wisconsin families remain on waiting lists or are forced to leave the workforce altogether. The problem is systemic, and piecemeal reforms won’t be enough to fix it.

Wisconsin has an opportunity to lead the nation in addressing this crisis by investing directly in child care access, affordability, and workforce support. Before July, we must restore and increase funding to Child Care Counts, ensuring that providers have the financial stability they need to keep their doors open. Additionally, increasing Wisconsin Shares rates and expanding eligibility will make it easier for more families to afford care, particularly during the critical early years of their children’s lives.

We must also address the workforce shortages by offering better wages and benefits to early educators. These professionals are crucial to the development of our children and deserve to be compensated fairly for their work. By increasing scholarships, wage stipends, and professional development opportunities, we can attract more workers to the field and ensure that child care remains a viable career path.

The child care crisis in Wisconsin is an issue that affects us all. Without immediate action, we will continue to lose out on economic productivity, and more importantly, we will fail the families and children who depend on a strong early care system. It’s time for Wisconsin’s leaders to prioritize affordable, accessible child care and support the workers who make it possible. Our future workforce—and the future of our state—depends on it.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.

Senator Smith brings attention to Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October by highlighting the work needed by policymakers to strengthen protections and justice for the victims of domestic violence.

EAU CLAIRE - October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and I am committed to advocating for increased awareness and action on this critical issue. Domestic violence is not only a violation of human rights but a public health crisis, leaving victims with long-lasting trauma. We must work to ensure that those affected by domestic violence are receiving the support, both physical and emotional, that they need.

The sad truth is that not all victims live through domestic violence. According to the 2022 End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin Homicide Report, someone is murdered every four days because of domestic violence in Wisconsin, and firearms were used in 88% of these murders. Nationally, the leading cause of death for pregnant women is being murdered. These are sobering statistics that underscore the urgency of improving our prevention efforts, supporting victims and ensuring justice.

Wisconsin offers various resources to assist victims of domestic violence, yet more can be done to reach the most vulnerable. The Safe at Home program, for instance, provides survivors with a confidential address, allowing them to protect their location from abusers. This is a vital tool for those seeking safety and peace of mind. However, we need to expand awareness of this program, especially in rural and underserved areas where access to resources can be limited.

Additionally, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) STOP program, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, funds essential services like victim advocacy, law enforcement training and prosecution of domestic violence crimes. We should increase support for these programs, particularly in communities with high rates of domestic violence homicides.

One of the key components of victim support is data collection and analysis, which helps us understand the scope of the problem and target resources effectively. The Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) Taskforce of which I am a member is an example of how data can be used to address systemic issues within specific communities. Indigenous women face disproportionately high rates of domestic violence, and the task force's findings will provide crucial insights into the challenges these communities face. We should commit to implementing the task force's recommendations to combat this crisis facing Indigenous communities.

While supporting victims is essential, we must find ways to prevent these acts in the future. One of the most effective ways to prevent homicides stemming from domestic violence is to close gaps in our gun laws. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of 2022 made significant strides in addressing domestic violence by prohibiting domestic violence abusers from owning firearms.

In addition, Wisconsin should enact an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law, which allows law enforcement and family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from someone who poses a danger to themselves or others. ERPO laws have been proven to reduce gun violence, including in domestic violence cases. Twenty-one other states have already implemented such a law, and Wisconsin should follow suit to prevent further tragedies.

Domestic violence is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. Wisconsin has made progress, but we must continue to prioritize both prevention and accountability. By expanding access to resources, closing dangerous legal loopholes, and ensuring that perpetrators face justice, we can make our state a safer place for everyone.

If you or anyone you know may be affected by domestic violence, there are resources available by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

This October, I encourage all Wisconsinites to support survivors and stand up together against domestic violence. Let us commit to creating a future where no one has to live in fear of violence in their own home.

Sen. Smith encourages anyone affected by domestic violence to call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.

Senator Smith writes about green energy tax credits now available to homeowners thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act which passed in 2022.

EAU CLAIRE, WI - As the ranking Democratic member on the Senate Utilities Committee, I’ve spent much of my career fighting to make utility costs more affordable for families while addressing the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy.

There’s only so much we can do as policymakers for families to afford their energy costs. Oftentimes, it takes planning and action from individuals to capitalize on new incentives. There are a lot of opportunities for families to save money with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed by the federal government in 2022. Now is a great time to consider taking concrete steps to help your family lower the cost of owning and maintaining your home. By providing incentives for energy-efficient home upgrades and solar panels, and even electric vehicles, the IRA is not only helping Wisconsinites save money, but also moving us to a greener economy.

The IRA offers substantial support for energy-efficient home upgrades, which can have a massive impact on both utility bills and environmental sustainability. For instance, proper insulation and air sealing can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20%. With tax credits available for these improvements, homeowners can now afford to make those critical upgrades that pay off in the long run. And for anyone unsure where to start, the IRA covers the cost of home energy audits, so families can get expert advice on how to make their homes more energy efficient.

In addition to making homes more efficient, the IRA also makes it easier for families to generate their own clean energy. One of the most effective ways to do this is by installing rooftop solar panels. Tax credits now cover 30% of the installation costs, and these can be combined with state-level incentives to bring the cost down even further. Families who install solar panels can save about $300 per year, or $9,000 over the life of the system.

Heating and cooling costs are a great way to save money too. Heat pumps can transfer heating and cooling more efficiently through the home and they are becoming more efficient than traditional systems. In Wisconsin’s brutal winters, heat pumps can make a significant difference. Through the IRA, families can claim tax credits of up to $2,000 for heat pump installations, with state programs offering additional rebates that cover up to 90-100% of the costs for low-income households. This means that thousands of families in our state could have new, energy-efficient systems installed for little or no cost.

Here in Wisconsin, we’ve received $150 million to help homeowners make these green upgrades. Under our HOME Rebates program, families can receive up to $4,000 for energy-efficient retrofits, and under the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program, low-income households can receive up to $14,000 for electrical upgrades.

While taking advantage of home efficiency incentives, people can also save money while going to and from home with the expansion of tax credits for electric vehicles (EV’s). These credits are available now for up to $7,500 for new vehicles, or $4,000 for used ones, and are helping families save an average of $950 per year on fuel costs. To qualify, a married couple would need to make less than $300,000, or $150,000 for individuals which ensures the credits are targeted toward middle and low-income households. The vehicles must also be built in North America.

By taking advantage of these new incentives, families can make their homes more affordable, save money while also helping us tackle the climate crisis. Now is the time to act for energy efficiency so you can keep a little extra of your hard-earned money.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.

Trump’s claim that he is a "protector" of women falls apart when placed under even the slightest scrutiny. Women are far more aware of Trump’s contradictions than he gives them credit for.

LAKE GENEVA, WI - In recent attempts to court female voters, Donald Trump has rebranded himself as the "protector" of women. At rallies across Pennsylvania and North Carolina, he boldly declared that under his leadership, women would be safer, healthier, and happier. He even went so far as to claim that if re-elected, women would “no longer be thinking about abortion,” as if the controversy surrounding reproductive rights would magically disappear with a stroke of his hand. But this narrative is as false as it is insulting.

Trump’s self-proclaimed title of "protector" is laughable, considering his pivotal role in stripping women of their constitutional right to choose. The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade—a victory Trump openly boasts about—has ignited protests and mobilized women across the country. His appointment of three conservative justices was central to this ruling, a direct attack on women’s rights. Yet, Trump now tries to downplay the significance of abortion, acting as if handing the issue back to the states has settled the matter. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The contradiction in Trump's stance is blatant. He says he will “take care” of women, but his actions over the years reveal someone far more interested in controlling and belittling them. His campaign’s message of protection rings hollow when you consider his troubling history with women. In 2022, Trump was found liable for sexually abusing and defaming E. Jean Carroll. He has publicly insulted women for their appearances, questioned their intelligence, and belittled their contributions. How can anyone seriously believe that this man, who has repeatedly attacked women, now positions himself as their guardian?

Trump’s remarks about women being "happier, healthier, and more confident" under his leadership are not only condescending, but they're also dismissive of the real challenges women face. His solution to abortion? Make it a state issue and pretend that resolves everything. But this isn’t protection—it’s avoidance. He’s not advocating for women’s autonomy or safety; he’s simply sidestepping the issue, leaving it to individual states to decide whether a woman has control over her own body. That’s not protection—it’s control, wrapped up in a false promise.

While some women at his rallies may support the idea of leaving abortion to the states, others see through this charade. Laura Hinton, one such attendee, expressed her "mixed emotions" on the topic, acknowledging the importance of reproductive rights while questioning whether it would stop her from voting for Trump. This illustrates the broader division among women voters. But one thing is clear: women know when they are being patronized, and Trump’s attempt to simplify a deeply personal issue shows just how disconnected he is from the realities of women’s lives.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris has offered a stark contrast, addressing women’s rights with clarity and urgency. She calls out Trump’s hypocrisy and the damage his policies have inflicted. Harris understands that true protection means ensuring that women have the freedom to make choices about their own bodies. It means supporting their autonomy, health, and rights—not using them as political pawns.

Trump’s claim that he is a "protector" of women falls apart when placed under even the slightest scrutiny. His track record is one of attacks, insults, and undermining women’s rights. His recent comments feel more like an attempt to control women’s choices than any genuine offer of protection. The truth is, women don’t need someone to "take care" of them—they need a leader who respects their independence, their intelligence, and their rights.

Women are far more aware of Trump’s contradictions than he gives them credit for. They know that actions speak louder than words, and Trump’s actions have consistently proven that he is no protector. He is the attacker who pretends to defend, but women see right through the façade.

Senator Smith writes about the glaring gap in school funding for special needs students which is contributing to the price tag of referendum questions asking voters to make up for the shortfall.

EAU CLAIRE, WI - Over the past decade, you’ve probably noticed more and more referenda questions on your ballot to help fund your local school districts. While there are many reasons for why a school would request an increase in funding, such as facility improvements, better teacher pay or even to cover their standard operating costs, it seems Wisconsin’s lack of state funding for special education could be an underlying motivator.

Under federal law, Wisconsin’s public schools are required to meet the needs of students with disabilities, regardless of how much it costs to provide that service. Currently, our public schools receive a base reimbursement rate of 33% from the state to help pay for special education, but this then leaves them to pay the remaining costs. While some public schools in wealthier districts can help cover these expenses with referenda, our rural public schools in Western Wisconsin are not always able to.

This system is not sustainable for Wisconsin. This last spring, only 60% of all school referenda throughout the state were passed. While those of us in western Wisconsin tend to pass referenda to fund schools, this is not a viable long-term solution. In the last state budget, Governor Evers recognized this funding shortfall and put forward a plan to get the state to a 60% reimbursement rate while paving the way to achieve 90% in future budgets. But, Republicans in the state legislature rejected the proposal, leaving our public schools high and dry.

This gap in funding means school districts have to supplement the cost of special education in other ways. Most often, this means our schools are required to pull funding from their general fund to cover the rest of the special education cost. The lack of state funding for special education does not only impact the students who require special education services, it impacts the entire student body. Whether that be the need to cut back on teachers’ salaries or not being able to purchase classroom materials, school districts in western Wisconsin are struggling to make do with the little funding they receive.

On the November 5th ballot this year, the Eau Claire Area School District will be asking for a 4-year $18 million per year referendum to help cover their operating costs. When comparing this to the unfunded special education costs the school faced in the 2022-23 school year, the result is shocking. The school district had to pay roughly $17.9 million on special education, meaning that roughly 99.6% of the Eau Claire Area School District’s shortfall could be attributed to the state’s lack of special education funding.

Public schools are federally mandated to educate all children with disabilities by providing them with a free public education they deserve. But when our Republican-controlled state legislature continuously fails to provide funding for these services, citizens are on the hook for continual referenda to raise taxes.

As we head into the new year and approach another budget session, we must remember this funding gap and push state legislators to do their job for our schools. Increasing the special education reimbursement rate will help all students in our Wisconsin school districts by freeing up funding that could go to the entire student population. Republicans must be held accountable for failing our state’s public schools.

Senator Smith represents District 31 in the Wisconsin State Senate. The 31st Senate District includes all of Buffalo, Pepin and Trempealeau counties and portions of Pierce, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson and St. Croix counties.