Conservatively Speaking

State Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) represents parts of four counties: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Walworth. Her Senate District 28 includes New Berlin, Franklin, Greendale, Hales Corners, Muskego, Waterford, Big Bend, the town of Vernon and parts of Greenfield, East Troy, and Mukwonago. Senator Lazich has been in the Legislature for more than a decade. She considers herself a tireless crusader for lower taxes, reduced spending and smaller government.

Legislators Elect Leaders, Prepare for Session

Elections are completed and the 2013-14 Wisconsin Legislature is beginning to come to order.  Last Thursday, the Senate Republican Caucus convened and welcomed three new members: Senators-elect Rick Gudex (Fond du Lac) and Tom Tiffany (Hazelhurst) as well as presumptive Senator-elect Paul Farrow (Pewaukee).

The Senate Republicans established leadership for the next two years.  Illustrating the effectiveness of last session’s caucus, the majority leader Senator Scott Fitzgerald, President Senator Mike Ellis, President Pro Tempore Senator Joe Leibham, and Assistant Majority Leader Senator Glenn Grothman all retained their positions with unanimous votes.  The caucus also unanimously approved Senator Frank Lasee as Caucus Chair.

In addition, Governor Walker addressed the caucus.  He began by applauding the work we did last session.  Although we held the line on taxes, state revenues are on the rise, he noted.

The Governor also reiterated the importance of the upcoming session for those out of work.  He emphasized the need for tax reform in Wisconsin, and said that many upcoming changes should garner bipartisan support.  Walker plans to speak with all four partisan caucuses.

The 2013-14 session begins with inauguration January 7, 2013.  Before January 7, 2013, behind the scenes work will take place.

Leadership will form committees, appoint chairs, and announce committee members.  Office moves will take place. 

Legislators and staff may also begin drafting legislation during this time.  However, bills cannot be formally introduced until after inauguration.

The legislature has wasted little time preparing for the next two years.  I appreciate the opportunity to continue to serve Senate District 28 by maintaining last session’s path to a balanced budget, eliminating deficits, paying down debts, less taxes, and nurturing job creation. 

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