MADISON, WI (WTAQ)– A bill signed Monday is considered the first step towards fighting homelessness for the first time in Wisconsin’s history.
Author of one of the bills, Representative Jim Steineke says the bills are aimed at taking a first step towards ending homelessness and preventing it.
“We realized how big this issue is and we came up with a package of bills to try to address this problem.”
Governor Walker has signed a bill that creates a new council to combat the issue.
“They are going to be tasked with developing policies that help the community” Steineke said.
The Interagency Council on Homelessness will consist of representation from eight agencies that work directly with the homelessness issue.
The Council will create a comprehensive, strategic plan to address the issue.
“Northeast Wisconsin has an issue with homelessness as well, we just don’t typically see them on the streets.”
Steineke said the problem is more noticeable in Milwaukee and Madison, but some will stay with friends or family, and therefore go unnoticed.
“This is small first step.”
Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch will head the council, which brings together eight agencies.
