State Assembly Leader Creates Four Bipartisan Task Forces

Yesterday, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Rochester) announced the formation of four bipartisan task forces:  the Speaker’s Task Force on Artificial Intelligence; the Speaker’s Task Force on Childhood Obesity; the Speaker’s Task Force on Truancy in K-12 Education; and the Speaker’s Task Force on Human Trafficking.

“These are important issues to our state that our Assembly members and the public would like addressed,” said Speaker Vos.  “The task forces will travel around Wisconsin obtaining input and innovative ideas in order to compile recommendations.”

Each task force has an Assembly Republican chair and an Assembly Democratic vice chair.  The Speaker has asked the chairs to tap into the knowledge of community experts and those affected in the individual issue areas.  The committees will begin this September with the hope of completing work before the end of the year.

Speaker’s Task Force on Artificial Intelligence

The Speaker’s Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) aims to study the transformative potential of artificial intelligence while ensuring its responsible and ethical deployment. The Task Force shall consider the use of AI tools by the public and private sectors, including automated decision tools, facial recognition, and generative AI. With AI’s growing impact on various sectors, the task force will drive informed policy discussions for a future that balances innovation with societal well-being.

Representative Nate Gustafson (R-Neenah), chair, and Representative Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska), vice-chair, will lead the task force on artificial intelligence.

Speaker’s Task Force on Childhood Obesity:

Childhood obesity is a critical health concern that demands attention.  The task force will study circumstances contributing to childhood obesity, including physical activity, nutrition, medical and other root causes and factors. Through research-driven initiatives and community engagement, the task force aims to combat obesity and its associated health risks among children, fostering a generation of healthier citizens.

Representative Karen Hurd (R-Fall Creek), chair, and Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), vice-chair, will lead the task force on childhood obesity.

Speaker’s Task Force on Truancy:

Recognizing the impact of truancy on educational attainment and future opportunities, the Speaker’s Task Force on Truancy in K-12 Education will work to identify root causes and implement effective interventions. The members of the task force will examine the relationship between truancy and student academic success, evaluate the current practices to hold parents and schools accountable for student attendance, and increase awareness and resources, ensuring every child has access to quality education and a promising future.

Representative Amy Binsfeld (R-Sheboygan), chair, and Representative Dora Drake (D-Milwaukee), vice-chair, will lead the task force on truancy.

Speaker’s Task Force on Human Trafficking:

The task force’s goal is to create a society where the safety and well-being of every person are paramount and where exploitation has no place. The task force will explore innovative solutions to combat human trafficking through prevention, supporting and empowering survivors, and prosecuting traffickers.

Representative Jerry O’Connor (R-Fond du Lac), chair, and Representative Jodi Emerson (D-Eau Claire), vice-chair, will lead the task force on human trafficking.