I take pride in being an advocate for individuals with disabilities because the love, laughter, and joy they bring to everyone around them is something to be cherished and celebrated.

Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRPs) play an important role to the well-being of individuals with disabilities because they offer employment and vocational training opportunities for these individuals. But they provide more than simply a job and a wage — they provide a sense of purpose and a community who supports them.

I've visited all eight CRPs in Wisconsin's Sixth District, and at all of them, the individuals who work there tell me that they enjoy their job not because of the size of their paycheck, but because of the dignity that comes from completing an honest day's work along with their peers.

One of the people I met, and now consider a friend, is a young woman named Yael who has a job at both a Community Rehabilitation Provider and at a retail store. When I ask her which job she likes better, she tells me she likes her job at the CRP because "that's where all my friends are".

Yael was referred to her CRP 20 years ago by her local vocational rehabilitation agency. It has been invaluable for her to have the choice and flexibility to work in a fulfilling job that provides work experience, financial compensation, friends, social experience, and the dignity she deserves as a vital member of our community.

Since Yael was referred to a CRP, however, the Department of Education issued a regulation and guidance that left local agencies confused, which has led many to no longer refer people like Yael to jobs in CRPs. This is a disservice to individuals with disabilities who want to work and would thrive both personally and professionally in a CRP.

That is why I am proud to introduce the Workplace Choice and Flexibility for Individuals with Disabilities Act to fix this problem and expand career opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Congressional actions in the past have taken away opportunities for young people with disabilities, and it's time to restore the full array of options available to these unique, valuable, hardworking individuals who so deserve it.

Manufacturers in Wisconsin like Metko and Lisowe create products that increase the efficiencies of other businesses in our state and across the country. They are profound American innovators that are vital to our economy and essential to our state, and it's my honor to represent them in Washington.

I had a wonderful time with the Kohler Fire Department and Sheboygan Moose Lodge at their brat fry fundraiser last week to benefit the organizations. 

I enjoyed joining the Manitowoc County Unit Meeting last week in Mishicot to discuss how we can further empower communities throughout the County. 

Thank you to the SonRise Calvary Church in Oshkosh for having me at your Mission Gala.

It was wonderful to end last week with good company and conversation at the Sheboygan VFW Friday Fish Fry! 

I had a great time with the Winnebago County Farm Bureau at their 2nd annual Community Night in Oshkosh to benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

As your Congressman, I’m here to serve you. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to my offices in Fond du Lac and Washington. If you enjoyed this newsletter, be sure to forward it to your family and friends so they can stay informed on what I’m doing in Washington and the Sixth District, and let them know that they can subscribe by clicking here.

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