State

In an encouraging sign, reserves in Wisconsin's unemployment fund increased last year after they plunged during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the fund still may not be ready for the next recession; its reserve levels remain below those of most states and lag a key benchmark of recession readiness.

There’s a social media post that’s been circulating for a few years that shows a farmer driving a tractor baling hay with three people stacking bales on the wagon with the words: “You don’t know the meaning of hard work until you spend a summer baling hay.”

While recent state budgets have increased staffing levels and pay for both assistant district attorneys and public defenders in Wisconsin, their salaries still lag those of attorneys in the private sector. Meanwhile, turnover and workloads for the positions have increased.

Military service members, veterans and their families have made great sacrifices for their country and continue to do so every day. Unfortunately, unique issues that affect these groups, as well as their distinct culture and community, are often exploited by scammers looking to steal their money, property and even identities.

There’s plenty of time to head outside and see nature’s feathered creatures.

World Migratory Bird Day, celebrated May 13 this year, is regarded in many birding circles as opening day of the bird-watching season.

Early childhood education and care provides an essential service to Wisconsin families and supports Wisconsin children at a critical stage of brain development. Yet its labor-intensive economics prove challenging for all of its stakeholders, resulting in high costs for families, low wages for employees, and thin margins for providers.

Recent Wisconsin Policy Forum research examined a critical if overlooked local government service: sanitary and stormwater sewers, and the mounting costs to operate them.

In 2007, nearly 11 million tons of trash were deposited in Wisconsin landfills, with nearly 2 million tons coming from other states. By 2021, that number had dropped to 8.2 million tons, with only 315,000 tons of out-of-state trash.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has a new resource available to keep motorcyclists safe on the roads.

The updated 2023 Wisconsin Motorcyclists’ Handbook explains the rules of the road and important safety tips specific for motorcycle riders.

From Wisconsin State Patrol

As Wisconsin’s summer weather settles in, motorcycle season is in full gear, which means drivers will be sharing the road with smaller vehicles through fall.