Utilities have blocked prior attempts to let other developers build community solar in the state. Now legislators have a bill meant to address opponents’ concerns.
Posted inCommunity
Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service named 2025 IDEA Champion of the Year
The Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service’s Ron Smith has been named the 2025 IDEA Champion of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Southeastern Wisconsin.
Posted inEducation, Government
How a Madison woman’s question sparked a growing statewide civics contest
The annual quiz game about government and democracy has doubled in size since the Wisconsin Newspaper Association started it. The brainchild of a retired teacher-turned-reporter, it encourages young people to become civically engaged.
Posted inForward, Government
Here’s why Wisconsin Republican lawmakers pass bills they know Gov. Tony Evers will veto
Immigration is a top concern among Republicans, and putting Democratic votes on the record is likely a strategy heading into an election year.
Posted inFact briefs
Is sedition punishable by death?
No. President Donald Trump suggested the punishment could be applied to the crime, but the law only allows for up to 20 years in prison.
Posted inForward, Justice & Safety
Courts left with loose ends when ICE detains criminal defendants
When defendants sit in ICE custody, their criminal cases generally continue without them — sometimes with no explanation of their absence to the court.
Posted inEconomy, Forward, Government
Farmers are feeling the squeeze from Trump’s mass deportations. Congress isn’t close to a fix.
House Republicans say they are in the early stages of policy discussions as farmers raise concerns about labor shortages.
Posted inFact briefs
Have projected 2040 carbon dioxide emissions been revised downward by 40% in the past decade?
No. Emissions projections for 2040 have dropped, but not by 40%.
Posted inEnvironment
As cover crop use grows, many farmers struggle to commit to the practice
In states along the Mississippi River, Wisconsin has the highest percentage of its cropland using cover crops, nearly 8%.
Posted inFact briefs
Does each ICE deportation cost taxpayers at least $17,000?
Yes. The cost for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest, detain and deport someone is at least $17,121, on average, according to the agency.
Posted inNews about Wisconsin Watch
Wisconsin’s forgotten homes: Takeaways from investigating manufactured housing
Addie Costello spent months visiting manufactured homes — a vital yet overlooked source of affordable housing. Here’s what she learned.
Posted inGovernment
Wisconsin election officials skeptical of proposed early-voting mandate for municipalities
An amendment eases the requirements for smaller towns, but clerks say the hourly minimums are a burden and could end up reducing access.