Wisconsin State AFL-CIO --- Chartered 1958
6333 W. Bluemound Dr., 
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53213   
Phone (414) 771-0700  Fax (414) 771-1715

David Newby, President 
Michael J. Paul, Exec. Vice President 
Phillip L. Neuenfeldt, Secretary-Treasurer
 

Subject:  ELIMINATION OF PUBLIC INTERVENOR AUTHORITY

Position:  OPPOSED

The Wisconsin State AFL-CIO opposes the elimination of the Public Intervenor because it is a vital public voice in conserving and protecting our state’s valuable natural resources.  It is these natural resources which have contributed so substantially to our quality of life.

Probably less well known is the contribution made by the Public Intervenor in supporting the Worker Right-to-Know Law and, subsequently, the Community Right-to-Know Law in the early 1980’s.  These laws made Wisconsin one of the earliest states to address the potential threat of toxic hazards in the workplace and in our neighborhoods.  Wisconsin’s legislation, along with laws passed in other states, became the foundation for federal laws that now protect both workers and citizens.

The Public Intervenor Authority in the Attorney General’s Office was created 28 years ago under the administration of Governor Warren Knowles.  This voice for the citizens of Wisconsin is even more vital today and we urge that the Public Intervenor Authority be restored in the 1995-97 State Budget.

PN/JAR

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