'Unprecedented times:' Gov. Evers announces 2nd package of COVID-19 relief proposals

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers announced Wednesday, April 1 a second package of comprehensive legislative proposals that would provide critical investments in health services, support for essential workers and assistance for Wisconsin families and businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The governor’s announcement comes just days after he announced a first piece of legislation, which included additional funding and flexibility for public health professionals and healthcare professionals, a repeal of the one-week waiting period for unemployment insurance, expanding and improving access to telehealth services, among many other proposals.

“What the federal government has passed is a great start, but I am concerned it does not go nearly far enough," said Gov. Evers. "We need to take aggressive legislative steps here in Wisconsin for not only the health and safety of our families and workers but for our state’s economy,”

As additional needs and issues arise from agencies and stakeholders, the governor is committed to working with legislators to find bipartisan solutions. The governor’s office welcomes the opportunity to hear and consider any proposals that legislators have to address the impacts of COVID-19 on the health and well-being of Wisconsin residents, businesses and communities.

“I’m calling on the Legislature to convene without any further delay to take up these proposals supporting our healthcare providers, essential workers, small businesses, and families across our state who need our help during this difficult time," said Gov. Evers. "These are unprecedented times, but we must remember that we are all in this together. We need to do everything we can to support those who need it.”

This package, among many other proposals, includes:

The governor’s first COVID-19-related legislation was introduced last week as LRB-5920 and is available here for review. A brief explanation of LRB-5920 is available here. A brief explanation of the governor’s second round of proposed legislation announced today is available here.