State

Thu
18
Sep

Law of the month: Be extra vigilant around train tracks


An old rail crossing is seen in Reedsburg. Drivers, cyclists, skaters and pedestrians all need to be cautious around train crossings. (Independent Star News file photo)

Wisconsin is home to 3,300 miles of active train tracks that are essential to the state’s economy and connect travelers to their destinations. Because trains cannot make sudden stops, drivers and pedestrians should be extra vigilant when approaching railroad tracks to prevent serious crashes.

Thu
04
Sep

American Heart Association responds to new high blood pressure guidelines


(American Heart Association graphic)

Nearly half of all adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure (≥130/80 mm Hg), which is the No. 1 preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke and heart failure, as well as kidney disease, cognitive decline and dementia.

Thu
04
Sep

Electronic vaping device crackdown has begun

Tighter regulations have taken effect on electronic vaping devices.

As of Sept. 1, vapes must be listed on the Department of Revenue’s Electronic Vaping Device Directory in order to be sold in Wisconsin. All others are considered illegal.

As of now, there are 216 vapes and related products on the directory.

Thu
04
Sep

KNOW YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS Understanding intellectual property rights: Trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets


Joel Huotari. (Submitted photo)

In today’s knowledge economy, protecting your ideas, brand, and creativity is just as important as protecting physical property. Intellectual property (IP) law gives creators and businesses the legal tools to do just that.

Thu
28
Aug

School Transportation Safety Week aims to keep students safe as they head back to classes

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) teamed up to promote School Transportation Safety Week, Aug. 25-29. The new initiative includes a shared social media campaign focusing on safety tips for drivers and students to ensure everyone gets to and from school safely.

Thu
21
Aug

WISPOLITICS: Stalled energy legislation was most lobbied bill in first half of 2025

Stalled legislation that would give incumbent utilities the first shot at building new transmission lines was the most lobbied bill during the first six months of the year, according to numbers compiled for WisPolitics.com.

Thu
14
Aug

August is sweet corn season in Wisconsin


August is an ideal time to enjoy sweet corn. (Submitted photo)

There’s nothing quite like biting into a butter-slathered ear of corn on a hot August afternoon. For many Wisconsinites, this golden, starchy vegetable is more than just food. It’s a late summer ritual that fills our stomachs and, somehow, our hearts too.

Thu
24
Apr

DMV warns that toll texts are scams

If you’ve received a text demanding action on an unpaid toll, block and delete it immediately.
People all over the area have reported an increase in suspicious text messages. Many of these warn the recipient that they have outstanding toll bills, and must click a link to make a payment.
Thu
27
Mar

DataWatch: Wisconsin gives little compensation to wrongfully convicted

What is a year of life behind bars worth for someone who didn’t commit a crime?

One standard in Wisconsin suggests it’s no more than $5,000. 

Thu
27
Mar

Fiscal Facts: State budget bright spots abound, but caution warranted to avoid future gaps

As Wisconsin’s next state budget debate begins, state finances appear stronger than at most points in the 21st century, buoyed by low unemployment and a balance in its main fund of more than $4 billion.

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