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The 6D will have a single axis level Vs the G15 dual axis? uhh, okay? I would gladly forego the Wi-Fi and GPS features for a 100% fov finder and a better AF system. And why develop an entirely new sensor? Why not just have created a 5D minus video embellishments?
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Just Posted: Hands-on Canon EOS 6D preview
Just Posted: Our hands-on preview of Canon's enthusiast-grade full frame DSLR, the EOS 6D. The 6D features a newly-developed 20.2MP CMOS sensor and a magnesium alloy body. To distinguish it from the more expensive 5D Mark III, the 6D features a simpler, 11-point AF system with a single cross-type focus sensor. It also features a smaller, 97% coverage viewfinder. What do these, and a handful of other, omissions mean for the 6D and how to it match up to Nikon's D600? Read our hands-on preview to find out.
Click here to read our Canon EOS 6D hands-on preview
Mar 19, 2014
Mar 3, 2014
Feb 14, 2014
Dec 17, 2013
Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only)
Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF24-105mm IS Lens Kit
Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only)
Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF24-105mm IS Lens Kit
Canon EOS 6D SLR Digital Camera
with Canon 24-105mm f/4.0L IS USM AF Lens + 64GB Master Kit
Canon EOS 6D Digital SLR Camera Body
with EF 24-105mm L IS USM Lens with 64GB Card + Case + Battery & Charger + Battery Grip + Tripod + 3 UV/FLD/CPL Filters Kit
Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only)
Canon EOS 6D Digital SLR Camera Body
with EF 24-105mm L IS USM & 70-300mm IS Lens + 64GB Card + Backpack + LED Flash + Grip + Battery & Charger Kit
6Ave Canon EOS 6D Digital Camera (Body Only) 8GB Package 1
Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD and 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS UD Standard Zoom Lens
Canon EOS Rebel T3i 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
and DIGIC 4 Imaging with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only)
Really has built in GPS .. well, that's a job I'd prefer to be left to an external device. Definitely a mixed bag, but promising. Maybe in a couple years the Mk II will spiff it up a bit on the continuous shooting rate and give a few more focus points.
I now have a 550d and use it for video purposes. I want my next camera to be a full frame, so I was really hoping, that this would have some interesting video featues (autofocus, headphones out, other?), but obviously it doesn't. Now I am thinking of my next camera to be a Sony, because they are way ahead of canon in the video field now.
But... It looks like canon is intentionaly not including any video features here (headphones out is just obvious), so maybe they have some other camera in mind? No mirror or a new large sensor camcorder? I just cannot believe that that's it for this year...
I was waiting for a replacement for my 50d and was ready to spend some money on a FF. But with those specs and the 5d3 high price i'm going to keep it untill it dies
Like, the 5Dmk2 was the high point for Canon HD DSLR video, and the only real notable point, they had a chance to keep on pushing it but instead shot way above with their Cinema line...
Canon releases another SLR with a worse AF performance?
Today I sold my 3rd canon lens and with this announcement I get additional confirmation I made the right choice (for me).
At least Nikon understands the issue and so does Sony.
Both have superior AF and sensor performance. The only area Canon still has an upper hand is with some lenses, but for non-pros like myself, the selection is "good enough" on both Sony and Nikon.
Canon, if you continue like this for another 2-3 iterations, you will start to lose market share more than imagined.
Kudos to Canon for releasing a camera with so much disruptive potential that it can decimate the competition. It'll sweep all photo awards for 2013/2013. Canon is the most innovative company out there.
....Now you've fanned the flames! I'm just waiting for the deluge here.....over to the masses......
Decimate? With what? This lower rez camera than the D600? Not likely.
I am sure this is in jest ...
Thanks for the laugh...
1DX is lower res too, so what... and D4 even lower even more, what's your point?
Exactly the 2 Flag ship cameras that were used all over the Olympics have some of the lowest Res. Please get an idea before typing. Look into Sensor development and Imaging processors or you'll be left behind.
I will most likely be buying this, as upgrade from the old 5D. 5D III is overpriced and overspecified for me. It's disappointing though that it is even missing features the 650D has! Articulated screen would have been very welcome. Even the electronic level has been crippled to one axis. Hopefully being more precise than 0.3° then? DPreview should include 5D, 5D II, 60D and 650D in the spec comparison. It might just reach the 5D II specification... If it weren't for wifi and GPS, this should sell at €$1600 at best, in light of the competition.
I hope the dynamic range of the new sensor is significantly improved, but Canon isn't bragging about anything. It isn't a Hybrid AF CMOS either. I wonder then what the point of the new sensor design was over the 5D II and III. I also hope the camera has AF manual adjustment!
by the way I DO like the dust + splash proof! This actually sounds better than the 5D III which has something like "improved sealing".
This or a boxed 5D Mkii? There are still some Mkiis at the stores and their price is dropping...
Why are some people getting so aggressive about the D600 and 6D, There 2 Cheaper than before FF cameras. Relax everyone. There's more happening in the world to get stressed about. Their bot great looking cameras and I'm sure that both will do well and capture great pictures for the enthusiast's, student's, second camera body users who buy either model.
Since perfect exposure is the norm with ExpSim LV, expecting 'default' HDR sensor for HDR (contrasty images looking flatter, easier to grade for contrast details), is not Canon's emphasis. Instead, their sensors for IQ emphasis remains more for extreme low light, than brighter high contrast in good light where 'post-fixing' with HDR tools is the norm for others wanting that fixability with less or no 'banding' (which only occurs with those who are 'pp-fix-it' centric).
My disappointment with the 6D, is that although they finally offered a decent smaller sized FF dSLR, it is still handicapped with a fixed screen preventing more creative VASS (Vari-Angle Swivel Screen) perspective shooting, that many PowerShots have had, as well as the recent 60D and 650D APS-C VASS dSLR family. SO... when will Canon offer a #D FF dSLR with VASS?
Ideally, I've asked for a MODULAR-VASS, so that one can OPT to update/change a VASS that isn't 'fixed'; thus one could potentially have VASS+Fixed DUAL Screens.
Just looking at the specs... ugh... it's definitely 'dumbed down' quite a bit, perhaps even more than any upcoming 7DMkII or 70D... unless both those get a major 'dumbed down' too. Which wouldn't be good. Maybe the 6DMkII will have a Modular VASS...
This only makes the 5DMkIII all the more appealing to me now.
11-AF points??? 1/180 sync speed? Is Canon TRYING to get me to switch to Nikon? I may be jumping the gun a bit but, based on the specs, my first impression is highly disappointing.
Well all I care is how it performs in DR department.
If Canon adressed its previous sensors on that ground, am buying it for sure for my landscape photography, otherwise no thanks Canon!
paper means nothing,its time for canon to beat nikon in DR arena as they did with ISO
So just how much of an improvement in DR do you expect or is even achievable? In my examination of MF digital backs with their vaunted DR I can see only the slightest of differences in print and one could argue that that can be overcome or lost by printing skill.
You are like a dog chasing the imaginary rabbit.
This is the way I see it....
I own a 5D3, but often it is more camera than I need. This is when I am traveling with non-photographers or my fiance' and the emphasis of the trip is not photography. This is where a smaller/lighter camera with gps and wifi would be cool. These are times when I don't need two cards or the latest AF system.
This would be a very nice back-up camera as well. The wifi and gps are going to sell more of these than cross type AF points would.
It looks like Nikon makes their mid grade cameras for the cheap gear heads and Canon makes their mid grade cameras for the casual photographers.
My guess is that there is a larger market among the non-dpreview readers who want some of the fun bells and whistles.
casual photographer?
social media photographer maybe.
nikon seems to be intersted in the ambitious amateurs... canon in market share only.
so they sell some gimmicks to the masses.... and hidden under the gimmicks are the shortcomings.
That's your opinion Gothmoth. Mine is that Nikon is easily lead by by the mass market. That's why I left them many years ago.
As you say a great backup for the FF Canon shooter. But also a great starter FF from all the amateurs that have been howling for affordable FF.
The average poster here is a hobbyist but if you read only this site you would think that the world is screaming for FF.
The good news is as the market becomes saturated with full frame DSLRs the prices will start to come down on the new and used. Crap, you can get a excellent condition 5d mark ii now for $1500.00. A 5d can be got for $750.00. Maybe next product cycle some company will sell one for $1500 new. Then as everyone tries to become a wedding photographer and photography implodes, there will be mass hysteria as the world gets sucked in through it's vortex.
So yes the D600 does look better than the 6d, but that's ok. If the market shows people prefer the D600 then 6d prices will drop. The important thing is that there are plenty of full frame options for your liking.
Loving the WiFi and GPS. I'm not too bothered about Full Fame at this point. Using a 60D and 5D MkIII at the moment. Telephoto on the 60D and Wide on the 5D MkIII. I've never been happier.
Still like the way Canon are moving. I think Nikon has shot them selves a little making the D600 to close to the D800. As a business case that's not a clever move. The D600 sounds lovely on paper. Won't make me move from Canon, as I'm more than happy with what I've got and am not consumer lead enough to complain, moan, give uneducated comments on here.
have you shoot RAW with wifi? with one of the existing grips?
or are you a JPG shooter?
and as a 5D MK3 owner.. well you simply don´t care and that´s fine.
but that does not make the 6D a better camera that YOU don´t care.
it´s overpriced or underspeced... choose....
I shoot RAW and JPEG, Use the current WiFi adaptor to transfer JPEG samples and then deal with my RAW's after processing (if required).
i thought so.... and that´s useless for me.
your mileage may vary.. but im not wetting my pants over build-in wifi. imho it´s a gimmick.
but a 97% viewfinder... 180/s sync speed.... a poor rebel like AF system.. these are points that concern me.
and to give it the rest.. i think the 24 MP nikon sensor will be much better at low iso (and that is what matters to me).
I don't need the 6D as I have the 2 cameras that work perfectly for me. I like the spec on both the new Canon and Nikon Full Frames. Great to see more entry level FF's on the Market. I don't need and entry level FF. It's Great for Students and Enthusiast who want to venture into the world of Full Frame. For those who don't there's plenty to choose from.
Relax man.... It's just a Camera.... Sorry to here your still one of the many that are stuck on MP's. Low light will be great on both. unless you want to select I pixel. I'm not that stressed about that.
im not stuck on MP.. don´t tell buslls h i t.
i did not say anthing that could lead you to that impression.
i wrote about LOW ISO image quality....
and the nikon (sony) sensors seem to be better then anything canon has to offer.
In your opinion. Not in mine...
If someone uses a 50D or 60D and is looking for an entry Full Frame solution, the 6D is a no brainer. There are many who can't or wan't spend the money for a 5DIII and will be happy with this camera. I would get one.
2099 dollar vs. 2750 dollar.
650$ more for a way better camera...??
well only people who don´t know much about cameras will think the 5D MK3 is not worth much more then these 650$ difference.
the 5D MK3 is in every way the better deal for 2750$
people are fooled to believe this 6D is a bargain.. .and it may even work for noobs.
Where are you finding the Mark III for $2750? I've been looking and the only places I'm seeing that price are not very reputable. If I can find a legit deal at that price, then I definitely would rather go to the Mark III. I'm coming from a 50d and want full frame. Can't do $3,500 for the III, but am debating the Mark II @ $1899 from BH and this 6D
5D3's estimated retail price is 3499 $ and 6D's 2099 $. It's a complete mystery to me why the specs are lower and 5D3 is a more versatile photographing machine.
and how much less do you think the shady retailers will sell a 6D? Comparing back alley price of 5Dmk3 to MSRP of 6D is quite disingenuous.
Back of napkin calculation: dark grey market price of $2750 on a $3499 MSRP 5Dmk3 translates to a $1650 price of a 6D from the same seller, assuming you can get it without being upsold a kidney harvested in an ice water bath last night from a passed out rave-goer at Motel 6.
Not impressed.. 11AF points? no flash (hence no remote flash control!) 4.5fps, still no software intervalometer... To sum up: If canon think people will pay that much I think they have clearly lost the plot?
I totally agree: "Overall, though, it's difficult to shake the feeling that the EOS 6D simply lacks the 'wow' factor of its main rival. Whereas Nikon seems to have taken the approach of taking away as little as possible from D800 when creating the D600, Canon appears almost to have gone the other way, removing as much as it thinks it can get away with at the price. The result is the kind of conservative, slightly unimaginative design that's become the company's hallmark."
Hey, it worked for crApple right. The hipster douchebags keep on buying the same thing every year thinking it's cool and fashionable.
Is my 10-22 EF-S lens work with this body?
looks life EF only
The Canon 10-22 EF-S Lens will only work with crop sensor bodies
ie Rebel models, 60D & 7D
You can use the excellent 17-40L instead.
No EF-S Lens will work on a Full Frame camera, you'd have to buy some dodgy accessories to make it fit. Even then your shot's would look naff...
i guess he is a typical customer for a 6D..... a beginner that lacks the basics.
^^ Actually Nikon and Sony APS-C lenses work perfectly on FF bodies in a crop mode. You will get around 12 MP with a D600 or A99 body and 16 MP with a D800.
So he must have thought that Canon also supported the same feature considering the only 2 other FF camera manufacturers support it.
EF-S 10-22 with considering crop is 16-35.2 mm, with cheap build quality and non-constant aperature. EF 17-40 f/4 is much better.
The Price of £1799 for delivery in December according to WEX Photographic here in the UK
Is black tape included in the price?
I was just thinking about that actually!
All they have left is neon green.
@beautyintheeyes- that's too funny.
As an Leica R shooter this might be the FF camera for me,.
The 97% viewfinder might be just enough for two of my lenses to clear the Mirror.
The 11 point AF is of no concern to me nore is the price, unfortunately the 5D-3
is not suitable as the mirror hits the lens shrode.
Nikon is not suitable either as I don't want to replace my lens mount as I still shoot Film with my Leica R cameras.
Now to wait for a few more hours for Leica's offering.
Time to move to Sony, who seem to be getting the dpReview Gold these days..............
DPR: why include the 5D3 in the comparison table? It makes as much sense as including the D800. It's like comparing the D300s to the D3200, or the 7D and the 600D. Leave just the D600 and the 6D, they are the competitors, for people to compare (and also you to add the colors to the boxes. It's obvious that the 5D3 will get most of the pluses, as would the D800.
Snother point: if the 5D3's high ISO performance is any indication, the high ISO of the 6D should not be considered "better" than that of the D600, just because Canon uses a very lax criterion for establishing the üsual range".
the 5D MK3 is sold for 2750$ now.. i rather spend 650$ more and have a MK3 then this FF rebel.....
if your going to spend 2099$ you can sure save some more dollars for a way better deal.
don´t buy too cheap... or you will buy two times.
i rather spend a bit more and be 100% satisfied then to have a mediocre product.
Gothmoth, if one doesn't have a need for 5D3's advanced focusing system then there's little reason to go on to that dangerous path..."just a little more and I can get that!". Also, are you comparing street price and estimated retail price?
On that point I'm going to have to disagree with you rhlpetrus: it's nice to point out what you get for more bucks.
^^ Aside from the AF system, there is also the 100% viewfinder on the 5D MK III and the complete magnesium alloy body.
brendon1000, 97% coverage versus 100% coverage and full magnesium body versus magnesium body with polycarbonate top plate(for the wifi & gps signals) are just the kind of non game changer differences that are visible on spec sheets but not so much on photos.
"To distinguish it from the more expensive 5D Mark III, the 6D features a simpler, 11-point AF system with a single cross-type focus sensor." Rubbish. Back to only focusing with the center AF point? I always said the 40D/50D had better AF than the 5D 2, now the 6D has joined the substandard AF club.
Alternatives to using the center point: Automatic which just doesn't work for obvious reasons and preselecting an AF-point but using the center point and recomposing is a lot faster than selecting a specific AF-point.
Right, because center and recompose helps you in LOSING focus, especially if we want moving subjects in the shot like people.
you have ever shoot sports or moving objects??
i guess not.....
Focus & recompose doesn't even work for shooting the kids; let alone sports and action. I usually need to trigger the shot in less than one second.
I'd classify shooting kids as action shooting ;)
Anyways, Canon already has a body that's also suitable for that. Here's a body that won't do that so well but it's also cheaper.
Having options is nice.
Great ! All of Nikon's FF bodies have capable AF systems (39 AF with 9 cross for D600 and 51 AF with 15 cross for D800) with good tracking capabilities and now even Sony has joined the club with their 19 AF (11 cross points) supported with 102 AF line AF sensor on the main camera sensor.
It seems Canon has decided its customers don't require such opulence and should be happy with a single cross AF point.
The 6D's center point is suppose to work in low light conditions but I hear you, it's an inferior system overall. The asking price is too much but that's just an excuse for great discounts. Or so I'm hoping for :)
Canon needs to do more.
Unless this 6D has real superior image quality; how does this 6D compete with D600?
Specifications and price are all behind D600, the only advantage of this camera is made in Japan.
It's not supposed to compete against Nikon. You get the camera that has the features that you require for your photography. Also you stick with the brands lenses you've bought into. Unless you need to change for the features you require. Why make cameras the same brand to brand, now that would be boring...
Frankly speaking this is a fine camera as long as you don't wish to do action shooting. For genres like landscape, macro and a few more fast AF is not necessary and the IQ of this camera should be great unless Canon really screws something up.
Lens selection and availability also plays a huge part in staying in a camera system.
For instance Canon's excellent 100-400mm L lens has no equal in the Nikon camp.
Similarly as on date Canon has no answer to the Nikon 105 DC and the 135 DC lenses from Nikon (just to name a few).
Why isn't it supposed to compete with the D600 when it's the same price as the Nikon?
It is without a doubt competing with the Nikon D600. Thinking otherwise you must be living in a cave. Most people like myself that have invested a considerable amount of money on Canon lenses...changing to another brand would be foolish and extremely expensive as far as updating lenses. But to some one who is just starting off in photography one would be crazy not to look at the Nikon D600 instead which is a far better built camera. Nikon and Canon have always been going head to head as far as outdoing and outselling each other, take the Canon 60D and Nikon D7000 as an example or the 5DMIII and D800...almost the same features running besides each other in the same level. These two are virtually the same camera but in opposition to each other. Thinking otherwise is foolish.
Another cool camera. For me, I don't see spending a heft chunk of cash on a camera that has a paltry feature set just to get a full frame. That is true whether it is this of the D600.
After the disapointment with the crippled D600 Canon just gives me a very good reason to stay with Nikon - compared with the 6D, Nikon D600 is miles better, suddently Nikon D600 becomes so attractive - I'll still hanging out for a D400/D300X, if I go FF then it will be D800E
D600 is not a sm better. It lacks 1/8000 and GPS. D600 has more AF points, but Canon with 5 points is better then Nikon with 65 or any.
Superka, what are you smoking ?
Dpreview made a mistake on the specs (don't like to point out flaws of this otherwise fine site but lately there have been tons of mistakes on each and every news article).
The max shutter speed of the 6D is 1/4000 only. So its the same as the D600.
@Superka - Do you have any proof to back your outlandish statement ?
Whoever signed on the final feature list needs to pack his bags out of Canon. How can you price this for $2K? This is an insult.
Its sad to know that all the guys that wanna jump from the 7D to the 6D have to invest all there moneys into FF lenses now since Canon Full Frame Cameras don't have a crop mode. n downgrading from CF to SD? no dual slot? I shoot Nikon, but it must be devastating for all you Canon shooters to see a so called upgrade like this and for a price that is $99 more than their main rival..
Well, a 7D owner who has so much crop glass seems like a user who likes their crop glass and sensor, so much of Canon's offerings are FF anyways that's a moot point.
But yes, moving from any camera to the 6D it is difficult to consider that move an "upgrade". Now, we just have to see how the sensor is, unless it's just as good as the MK3 (as we all know, it won't), then it will be the same as or worse then the Mk2... then, I would wonder who would even want this
Going from a 7d to 6d would be a huge step down. There met not be many going in that direction.
The bodies are for different uses. In some aspects the 7D is better and in some the 6D.
If the sensor isn't "up to par" then it's a dud but that's not out yet.
To the people who are extremely offended and frustrated by this new product for whatever reason: Are you all going to sue Canon ? What an anger of those people. Unbelievable.
Good one :)...
I feel there are two options for consumers:
a- Don't buy it and stay with or buy 5dII...may be 5dIII if it drops in price
b- Switch to other brands
Either way anger vented :D
we (the upset peopel) have invested in a systems and now canon gives us nothing but overpriced s h * t this year.
sell my stuff? i have probably more money invested in canon glas as you both make in a year... before TAX.
^^ How do you know how much either of them makes in a year ? For all we know snooked123 could be Bill Gates Dpreview ID. :P
weak sauce
Whatever the opinions going for or against this 6D camera... Canon just HAD to announce this to FEND OFF the booming sales of the rival D600.
This 6D will be available only this Christmas... who knows? It just might be a CAD drawing right now!
By releasing this teaser... Canon prevents ship jumpers, and on the fence FF buyers from diving into Nikon! Giving them hope for an equivalent Canon budget FF lasting 4 months in waiting...
Aah! The intricacies of marketing hype, brand hypnotism and spin doctoring.
Canon is running 6 months behind since last year, it's obvious. They knew that Nikon had the D4 ready, they announced the 1Dx well before they could deliever it. Same story now.
"Betting the sensor will be crap" Lots of negative reaction. Do you really think they would attempt to make a sensor that is worse? If I was looking for a full frame camera and I wanted Canon I would consider this. I might also consider waiting for the price to fall. So you do not get the great autofocus of the 5DIII and you are not paying for it as well. Full frame, low light and, my bet, would be an improved sensor. I would prefer the CF card.
There are advantages to this camera. Some people take good photos with lesser cameras. Some people discuss camera specs and magnify photos and complain about pixels.
When is the last time you actually printed a photo, framed it and hung it on a wall?
Lastly, some people know what makes a good photo, many others simply offer "expert advice" on the gear.
Even if it's similar to 5D3's, it's still behind D800 or D600 (which seems to be very close to D800's in performance, from both samples and measurements). If you were starting an FF system, seriously, which would you choose? Indeed, people take wonderful images with 300USD cameras, but this one costs 2K! Plus the lenses ...
I'm currently using a 5dmii which is a gr8 camera, but then, Canon hasn't given me sufficient reasons to upgrade to the miii ... and this 6d makes no sense at all ...
I wonder what the R&D guys at canon are doing. I'm hoping that they will come up with sth worthwhile at the end of it all so i might wait for another 6 mths or so ... if not, i think the Canon team is just begging me to switch to Nikon ...
I don't want crappy upgrades with large price increments ...
Sold my Canon gear this year and jumped on Nikon.
This camera is a a big relief! I did it all right.
I almost did the same. Got a 1Ds MkIII and am pretty happy with it, but it seems Nikon is putting out way more ambitious, exciting and innovative cameras. Masses are probably making the switch now. If this continues, I will follow at some point. Selling all the glass is just such a hassle.
I'm so excited for my D600, I was curious if this rumor was true and it was. Any one going Canon at this time should get the last of the 5D MKII's ASAP. I think Canon soiled their pants on these specs. Hands on experience maybe different, but on paper, what a disappointment.
Betting the sensor will be crap, particularly ito DR.
Maybe the Canon is going to catch up with the loss made to is by Nikon D800, D800E and D600 regarding prices and MP.
Canon prices are much higher than the Nikon. on the other hand Nikon team is fast in promoting its items in Pakistan. Canon has no other way to keep its users or loose them by making cruel price policy.
Read many comments here and found that much of the users are happy with the Nikon D800 and D600 rather than 5Dm2 or 3 !!
what is the big difference between 5Dm2 and 6D FF ??? the shortened areas and need ???
disappointed..but i think canon made this for people who are deparested to get a FF..this camera is also light and can take photos in low light according to Canon to will operate at extremely low light levels; right down to -3 EV – a stop dimmer than the 5D Mark III.
Snooked123 - you have absolutly right about the lenses for this camera :-) Canon have to show us ...
What a relief, this means that I don't need to upgrade my 5D Mk2.
Keep it up Canon. I hate spending on a new camera.
AND I don't need to look into the new 600EX-RT to replace my Pocket Wizard Flex TTL and 580EX2, since Flex is only compatible with 5D2 for a FF.
Whilst I do love my 5Dm3, I am a little annoyed that Canon didn't add GPS and WiFi built it like they have done with this 6D. Both features would be really useful for the photographer and should have been a no-brainer to add.
If I remember correctly, they also neglected to add some of the good stuff that made it's way into the 650D, like built in speedlite transmitter.
So, like I said, I love my 5Dm3 but wish it had some of the missing features that made there way into cheaper bodies.
Canon couldn't add built-in gps and wifi to the 5DIII because the body is entirely made of magnesium alloy, which prevents an internal gps receiver to work properly
Yeah I know that - what I mean is that for the price of entry to Mark 3 land, they could have come up with a solution to that problem instead of foisting expensive GPS receiver and wifi transmitters on us as afterthoughts. Both of those, somewhat useful, devices are not only expensive but also downright ugly.
This is FF Rebel, not "enthusiast-grade full frame DSLR" except for the 1/8000 sec max shutter speed. $1,200-1,400 would make it very exciting but rumored $2,099 is way too high. Time to sell less used lenses now before resale value drops too much. Quo vadis Canon?
Refreshed 5dII. They just couldn't put T4i/60d's autofocus for $2099 - all 9 cross type points is what people might need why because that might make it attractive compared to 5dIII?
Milk the customer by offering less and charging more. Where are the lenses for the budget full-frame...wait let me guess...$2200 24-70mm? Age old primes such as 50mm 1.4 (whose autofocus motor breaks three times in three years), 85mm 1.8 (which is fast but no contrast wide open) or 28mm 1.8 that is tack sharp in the center 10% of the frame while the remaining 90% of the frame is a part of the creamy bokeh?
Ditto on AF. And as someone else mentioned, I too view this (how Canon and everyone else does, I don't know) as a "Rebel FF". but then as you say, where are the "Rebel FF lenses"? By the way, you forgot el cheapo supremo...50 1.8. I know who will buy this camera. My same friends who thought going from a rebel to a 7d was going to magically give them better pictures and pro quality results. Canon will now see a slew of sales of people convinced that spending that little bit more (actually a lot more) will give them pro results.
Oops...I forgot to mention that if this is indeed to be a "Rebel FF", Canon screwed up big time in leaving off a pop up flash for these folks. Oh well, in for a penny, in for a pound. Why not get them to spring for a flash too?
One bad news for me - the screen is not articulated. Why, then, the buttons from right site are removed? Looks like poor designer mistake.
The AF system seems to be the only thing here that sticks out. Given that the Mk3 and 1DX systems have been so well received and the 650D with it's hybrid AF, the 11 point module in this cam does seem a bit pedestrian.
Though I am sure both this and the D600 will sell pretty well. We've never had it so good.
We'll have to wait and see how the autofocus performs in the real world before commenting. On-paper specs don't tell the whole story. Anyway, don't we just use the centre point and re-compose 99.9% of the time anyway??
Gasman66, if you (almost always) recompose after focusing with the centre AF point, I do not. I'm a D90 user and this method simply doesn't cut it when using fast glass. After focusing with such a lens even the slightest movement affects the area that's in focus (especially when shooting closer objects).
Canon could not achieve consistent and accurate focus with their dSLR and various lens combinations for decades. I suppose the decision to further cripple already inferior canon body AF servo / lens combo in a new magnesium body with FF sensor must be worst decision I've seen from canon -> EVER! Unbelievable!!!
This will be my next DSLR. I started with a 550D and the 6D seems to be the next logical step for me. Most of my lenses can be used on the 6D, too. I only have to replace two EF-S lenses - of which one of them I wasn't convinced either.
The things I like most on the 6D are:
- compact design
- low light capable focusing points (we will see how they perform)
- 20 MP is absolut sufficient
- integrated GPS and Wifi
I hope there will be a reasonable price for this DSLR.
A single cross type AF point? I think the folks at Canon have truly lost their way.
I tawt I taw a $1500 camera, gwess nawt. Huhu-ness.
I only everuse a single point AF!
If the price is 2100 $ like the 5D MkII how 6D could be an "affordable" full frame camera? Every new L lens is 50% pricer from the previous edition. I am afraid that soon or later we have to switch to an other camera system....
alas... after 15 years... switched to Oly already with the OM-D.. Canon... too little too late
You have made a fatal mistake choosing Oly.
Haha, is he going to die?
Prolly, killed by irate Coink fanbois.
The OMD is better, don't worry.
If I was a canon shooter and had a 5D Mark II/III, I'd consider this as a second body for weddings and such.
Why not a second 5D Mk II? The price probably will be the same and you will not invest on SD cards.......
I plan to downgrade my 5D3 to the 6D. I am just a fan of smaller lighter DSLRs. :)
True, but the Mark II's AF leaves some things to be desired. Perhaps they got it better here as with the Mark III.
Until you discover your 6D doesn't take the same memory cards as your 5D cameras... :P
It's not like SD cards cost that much. If you can afford a 2100€ camera, you can buy a few SD cards for 20-30€ a piece.
That's not the point. The point is interoperability with your existing gear, and the fact that the CF card format is demonstrably faster and has more storage capacity due to the bigger real estate.
So, 3 duds in a single day announcement: 6D, G15 and S110. Well done, Canon!
Canon can only sell cameras based on brand name for so long. They're heading for a fall.
I hope this happens with crApple as well.
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Conservatively Speaking
State Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) represents parts of four counties: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Walworth. Her Senate District 28 includes New Berlin, Franklin, Greendale, Hales Corners, Muskego, Waterford, Big Bend, the town of Vernon and parts of Greenfield, East Troy, and Mukwonago. Senator Lazich has been in the Legislature for more than a decade. She considers herself a tireless crusader for lower taxes, reduced spending and smaller government.
Our state budget gap compared to others
When it comes to fiscal matters, the state of Wisconsin always seems to rank at the top, and usually in a negative manner. Our tax rankings, for example, always place us in the top taxed states. The same holds true for our business climate. Here is another example.
Wisconsin has one of the largest state budget gaps in the country according to a report by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). During 2010, Wisconsin is predicted to have a budget gap that will surpass 17.2 percent of its general fund budget.
Given our propensity the last several budget cycles to dig ourselves deeper and deeper, this news is not surprising.
Read more in stateline.org.
I asked our D.C. representatives to vote against the stimulus
I am one of several state legislators to sign a letter sent last week to Wisconsin's Congressional delegation urging members to vote against the proposed stimulus package. The letter reads as follows:
Dear Wisconsin Congressional Representatives,
Recent comments by our Governor may indicate that members of the Wisconsin state government want you to vote for some sort of stimulus package and that the State of Wisconsin would be in dire straits if you failed to do this. Nothing could be further from the truth. We would like to remind you that over the last year Congress has voted for a $170 billion stimulus package that was either paid for by borrowing or printing money and has only caused a lack of confidence in the American economy.
Then Senator Obama and the Congress passed an over $700 billion bailout plan with the Dow still over 10,000. Again, the result of printing and borrowing has only been the further decline of the American economy.
It is not like our federal government has been parsimonious to this point. In the seven years prior to that time, both education and healthcare spending on a national level almost doubled while transportation spending jumped over 50-percent. We implore you stop trying to stimulate the economy with a larger government.
Governor Doyle may have also implied that the state would face drastic cutbacks without federal money. The past decade has not seen any cuts that we are aware of. Instead we have seen massive expansions of state spending on healthcare with proposals for more. The only thing we know that will be in the new budget with regard to education are proposals for greater teachers' salaries.
Please, this time, say No to more debt for our children and grandchildren.
The state deficit just got bigger
Less than 24 hours after Governor Doyle proclaimed in his State of the State address that that Wisconsin faces a $5.4. billion deficit, the Legislative Fiscal Bureau (LFB) announced the shortfall is now $5.7 billion.
The LFB estimates that for the three –year period including fiscal year 2008-09 and the 2009-11 biennium, general fund tax collections (income, sales, and corporate taxes) will be $342.4 million less than the LFB reported during November 2008.
The Wisconsin Covenant could be a big tax increase
It appears there could be a call to dedicate tax money toward the Wisconsin Covenant, a program included in the last state budget to provide financial aid at a UW System school to eighth grade students that sign and keep a pledge.
According to the Wisconsin Covenant website:
"Eighth graders in Wisconsin are invited to sign the Wisconsin Covenant Pledge, a promise that they will:
- Earn a high-school diploma.
- Maintain at least a "B" average in high school.
- Complete the classes they need to prepare them for higher education.
- Demonstrate good citizenship and participate in their community.
- Apply for state and federal financial aid in a timely manner.
- Take the necessary steps to gain admission to a University of Wisconsin System institution, a Wisconsin Technical College, and/or a Wisconsin private collage or university.
In return for meeting these goals and keeping the pledge, a Wisconsin Covenant Student will be recognized as a Wisconsin Covenant Scholar, earn a place within our partnered systems of higher education, and receive a financial aid package, based on their family's financial need, to help make college affordable."
A study by The Wisconsin Center for the Advancement of Postsecondary Education, a UW-Madison think tank, is recommending the state fund the program. Currently, two private sources, the Wisconsin Covenant Foundation and the Fund for Wisconsin Scholars provide grants. But the study's authors believe more funding will be necessary and are urging a state investment. Investment is code for tax money.
Armed with this study, it is quite feasible that when Governor Doyle presents his proposed 2009-11 state budget to the state Legislature, it will include millions of dollars for the Wisconsin Covenant, minus an explanation from the governor about how the state will pay for and afford the program.
Approximately 35,000 eighth graders have signed pledges but many unknowns remain about the Covenant including how to pay for it, income guidelines for recipients, and whether the program can actually meet its goal of reducing the gap in enrollment rates of economic and racial groups. The first batch of Covenant students are scheduled to attend class in the fall of 2011.
The Wisconsin Covenant was one of the many reasons I voted against the last state budget. It is yet another ornament on a Christmas tree filled with goodies the state simply can't afford. The state creates another massive program based on a promise, and then turns once again to the taxpayers to hand over the funding. That the Wisconsin Covenant has turned into one more tax increase shouldn't come as any surprise.
Here are more details from the Associated Press.
Taxes matter when making a move
Last month, I blogged about the national rankings of Wisconsin counties based on property taxes paid using U.S. Census Bureau data. The rankings were compiled by the nonpartisan Tax Foundation in Washington D.C. Here are the top ten counties in Wisconsin and their national ranking.
Property Tax on Owner-Occupied Housing, by County, Ranked by Property Taxes Paid, 2005-2007 Average
The county is listed, followed by Median Property Taxes Paid on Homes, then the national ranking with #1 being the highest in property taxes:
1) Dane County $3,977 46
2) Ozaukee County $3,924 51
3) Waukesha County $3,864 54
4) Milwaukee County $3,544 76
5) Pierce County $3,395 87
6) Washington County $3,372 90
7) Kenosha County $3,363 93
8) St. Croix County $3,245 103
9) Racine County $3,101 114
10) Walworth County $3,013 126
I raise the issue again because the Pew Research Center conducted a national survey asking people what metropolitan area they would most like to live. Certainly weather was a factor in the responses. I believe tax climate also provided a strong consideration for the survey respondents. Let's examine the top 10 most popular metropolitan areas people would like to live and their property tax rankings by the Tax Foundation:
Property Tax on Owner-Occupied Housing, by County, Ranked by Property Taxes Paid, 2005-2007 Average
The city and county are listed, followed by Median Property Taxes Paid on Homes, then the national ranking with #1 being the highest in property taxes:
1) Denver (Denver) $1,233 811
2) San Diego (SD) $2,633 177
3) Seattle (King County) $3,297 101
4) Orlando(Orange County) $1,918 372
5) Tampa (Hillsborough) $1,967 352
6) San Fran.(SF County) $3,737 65
7) Phoenix (Maricopa) $1,286 760
8) Portland (Multnomah) $2,604 183
9) Sacramento (Sac.) $1,980 348
10) San Antonio (Bexar) $2,212 281
Here is the complete listing.
Tax changes for 2008
Tax filing time is right around the corner. The Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) has compiled a list of federal and state income tax changes for filing year 2008. You can read them here.
The state is to blame for state budget problems
Since I started writing Conservatively Speaking, I have posted many blogs that the major problem Wisconsin has putting together responsible budgets is that the state taxes and spends too much. I have consistently voted against budgets that raise taxes and fees. The Wisconsin Policy Research Institute (WPRI) has released a report that while the economy has played a role in Wisconsin's fiscal crisis, the state is primarily to blame.The WPRI writes:
"Several questionable budget practices allow Wisconsin to continually spend more than it takes in. First, the state has been filling budget holes in the general fund by pouring in one-time revenues from segregated state accounts, paid for with various user fees. According to state government's own financial records, from fiscal years 2001 through 2008, a total of $2.373 billion of these one time, non-routine, revenues was used to help the general fund show positive ending balances. Much of this came from the transportation fund, which was then made whole by issuing debt to backfill the hole left by the transfer.
While the current economic recession is to blame for a good deal of state government's fiscal troubles, the current pattern of the state spending more than it takes in has significantly exacerbated the problem. Even worse, the Governor and Legislature have set aside virtually no budget stabilization funds to ameliorate such downturns – which makes the current recession much more damaging to the state's finances. While the average state holds between 5% and 10% of their general fund revenues in a 'rainy day fund,' Wisconsin keeps less than 1% in such a fund – allowing the state to spend that vital money on other ongoing programs, leaving the state's finances in peril."
One solution offered by the WPRI suggests the state should stop spending more than it takes in.
Here is the entire WPRI report.
Congratulations, Wisconsin USO!
Late last year, I wrote two blogs about the need to preserve the Wisconsin USO office in downtown Milwaukee that was in trouble:
Save Our USO
Could the airport be the new home for the Milwaukee USO?
I am happy to report that efforts to improve the USO Office have been successful, and the USO celebrated a Grand Re-opening this week. Here is a press release from the Wisconsin USO:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contacts:
January 27, 2009 Jessica Stice, 414.271.3133
Wisconsin trail guides available
Guides to Wisconsin's wonderful birding and nature trails are now available online and in hard copies at various locations. You can get more details here.
Wisconsin Public Television will broadcast a special documentary in March about Wisconsin trails. The above link also has information about the broadcast.
Much like Madison, agreement is a rare commodity in Washington D.C. The great debate these days in the nation's capital is the effectiveness of a near-trillion dollar stimulus package. While that debate rages on, there is concurrence that a costly stimulus package will add to the already massive federal debt.
Consider these numbers reported by the Associated Press;
This year's budget deficit that doesn't include any stimulus money is still a record $1.2 trillion.
Interest payments on the federal debt are about $450 billion. A stimulus package would add about $40 billion to the interest payments a year.
The total national debt is currently over $10.6 trillion.
Every person in the United States would each have to pay $37,000 to wipe out the national debt.
Here are the details from the AP.
The House version of the stimulus bill originally contained 647 pages, 680 pages after amendments were added and the bill was approved. The Senate version has 431 pages.
Obama nominee: Abortions bring "relief and happiness"
The Family Research Council (FRC) has published some very revealing quotes about abortion attributed to David Ogden, President Obama's nominee for Deputy Attorney General. The FRC writes:
"In a brief for the American Psychological Association in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, he wrote: 'Abortion rarely causes or exacerbates psychological or emotional problems. When women do experience regret, depression, or guilt, such feelings are mild and diminish rapidly without adversely affecting general functioning. The few women who do experience negative psychological responses after abortion appear to be those with preexisting emotional problems ....'
Ogden also wrote: 'In sum, it is grossly misleading to tell a woman that abortion imposes possible detrimental psychological effects when the risks are negligible in most cases, when the evidence shows that she is more likely to experience feelings of relief and happiness, and when child-birth and child-rearing or adoption may pose concomitant (if not greater) risks or adverse psychological effects' ...."
Ogden's blithe dismissal of the post traumatic impact on women having had abortions along with his suggestion that women experience "relief and happiness'' are appalling.
During the previous legislative session I proposed legislation to prohibit coercive abortions, and I documented extensive data about the physical and emotional damage women suffer. The President's nominee for one of the highest legal positions in the country should check his facts before making the offensive statement that a woman having an abortion "is more likely to experience feelings of relief and happiness." The comment speaks volumes about the new administration.
Here are details from the FRC.
Another way to kill jobs
John Fund of the Wall Street wrote during August 2007 that increasing regulations and licensing hinders entrepreneurs from opening new businesses and kills jobs. Wisconsin has a horrible ranking when it comes to restricting jobs and it could get worse.
A provision contained in the 2007-09 state budget gives the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing (DRL) the authority to establish fees for the professions the DRL regulates. DRL Secretary Celia Jackson has informed the co-chairs of the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee of the department's new fees established for 2009-11. For the first time since 2001, fees are set to increase for over 100 DRL-regulated professions.
According to the Wheeler Report, "The base fee for all but a few new licenses will increase $22 to $75 from the current $53. Two-year renewals will range from $82 to a high of $170."
The Joint Finance Committee has until Wednesday, February 18, 2009 to object to the fee increases or schedule a hearing to review the proposal.
The fee increases are business and job killers and should be rejected, especially during this time of layoffs and weakening economy.
Congratulations to the village of Greendale!
The village of Greendale held its America in Bloom celebration that I attended at Greendale High School January 27, 2009.
My office prepared a state citation for the village of Greendale. It reads:
Whereas, America In Bloom is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting nationwide beautification programs and community involvement; and
Whereas, America in Bloom conducts a national contest based on the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental and lifestyle enhancements; and
Whereas, during the summer of 2008, Greendale, Wisconsin competed against communities of similar size located across the United States; and
Whereas, Greendale, Wisconsin was evaluated on eight criteria in the America in Bloom competition including floral displays, environmental awareness, landscaped areas, tidiness, urban forestry, heritage preservation, turf and groundcovers, and community involvement and
Whereas, the community-wide effort was coordinated by the Greendale Park and Recreation Department, the Greendale Community Education Council, and the Village of Greendale with participation by residents, business owners, school groups, church groups, environmental clubs, scout troops, and community organizations; and
Whereas, Greendale, Wisconsin residents cleaned up neighborhoods, planted flowers at schools, held garlic mustard pulls, and raised funds to place trees at schools; and
Whereas, Greendale, Wisconsin is named the 2008 America in Bloom winner for the 10,001 to 15,000 population category; and
Whereas, out of 125 points in each category, Greendale, Wisconsin scored 112 in tidiness, 112 in environmental effort, 119 in community involvement, 118 in heritage preservation, 118 in urban forestry, 116 in landscaped area, 112 in floral displays, 109 in turf and groundcover areas; and
Whereas, Greendale, Wisconsin earned the National Criteria Award in the Urban Forestry Category, a competition involving all participating communities regardless of population; and
Whereas, Greendale Wisconsin received an overall champion award in its population category; and
Whereas, Greendale, Wisconsin won the most prestigious of the competition's awards, the 5 Bloom Award, designating that Greendale, Wisconsin received more than 90 percent of the total points possible; and
Whereas, the community-wide effort was coordinated by the Greendale Park and Recreation Department, the Greendale Community Education Council, and the Village of Greendale with participation by residents, business owners, school groups, church groups, environmental clubs, scout troops, and community organizations; now
Therefore, the members of the Wisconsin Senate, on the motion of Senator Mary Lazich, congratulate Greendale, Wisconsin, as the 2008 America in Bloom winner for the 10,000 to 15,000 population category. Greendale, Wisconsin, is further commended for bringing immense civic pride to its community.
State Senate calendar for Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Here is the calendar for the state Senate floor session Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.:
First Order. Call of Roll.
Second Order. Chief clerk's entries.
Third Order. Introduction, first reading and reference of proposals; reference of appointments.
Fourth Order. Report of committees.
Fifth Order. Petitions and communications.
Sixth Order. Advice and consent of the Senate.
Seventh Order. Advice and consent of the Senate.
QUESTION: Shall the appointment be confirmed?
Boehmer, Tim, of Neenah, as a member of the Pharmacy Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Bohacek, Linda, of Eau Claire, as a member of the Dentistry Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Cantu, Kathleen, of Madison, as a member of the Cemetery Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Gottfredsen, Eugene, of Beloit, as a member of the Barbering and Cosmetology Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Kailas, Sujatha, of Fond du Lac, as a member of the Medical Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Leach, Kathi, of Junction City, as a member of the Optometry Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
LeGrand, Roger, of La Crosse, as a member of the Tax Appeals Commission, to serve for the term ending March 1, 2009. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Leinenkugel, Richard, of Menomonee Falls, as Secretary of the Department of Commerce, to serve for the term ending at the pleasure of the Governor. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Commerce, Utilities, Energy, and Rail, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
McAdams, Thomas, of Greendale, as a member of the Tax Appeals Commission, to serve for the term ending March 1, 2013. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Misra, Suresh, of Milwaukee, as a member of the Medical Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2011. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Nass, Steven, of Lake Mills, as a member of the Athletic Trainers Affiliated Credentialing Board to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Osborn, Sandra, of Verona, as a member of the Medical Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Patterson, Jeffrey, of Madison, as a member of the Barbering and Cosmetology Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Porter, E. Glen, of New Berlin, as a member of the Cemetery Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Renwick, Suzette, of La Crosse, as a member of the Pharmacy Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Rose, Teresa, of Hazelhurst, as a member of the Psychology Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Ruiz, Laura, of Milwaukee, as a member of the Barbering and Cosmetology Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2011. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Shropshire, Mark, of Appleton, as a member of the Physical Therapists Affiliated Credentialing Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Simpson, Luann, of Racine, as a member of the Health Insurance Risk-Sharing Plan Authority, to serve for the term ending May 1, 2011. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Sweeney, Timothy, of Green Lake, as a member of the Auctioneer Board, to serve for the term ending May 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Labor, Elections and Urban Affairs, Ayes 5, Noes 0)
Thornton, Patricia, of Grand View, as a member of the Funeral Directors Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Twait, Howard, of Wisconsin Rapids, as a member of the Barbering and Cosmetology Examining Board, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Weix, Lou Ann, of Green Bay, as a member on the Board of Nursing, to serve for the term ending July 1, 2012. (Report confirmation recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Eighth Order. Messages from the Assembly.
Ninth Order. Special Orders.
QUESTION: Shall the joint resolution be adopted?
Special Order at 10:01 A.M.
Senate Joint Resolution 8. Relating to: modifying the session schedule for the 2009-10 biennial session period and extending the deadline for the governor's budget message. By Senator Decker; cosponsored by Representative Nelson.
Tenth Order. Consideration of motions, resolutions, and joint resolutions not requiring a third reading.
Eleventh Order. Second reading and amendments of senate joint resolutions and senate bills.
QUESTION: Shall the bill be ordered to a third reading?
Senate Bill 1. Relating to: a state minimum wage, permitting the enactment of local living wage ordinances, and granting rule-making authority. (FE) By Senators Decker, Kreitlow, Sullivan, Wirch, Taylor, Lehman, Carpenter, Coggs, Plale, Erpenbach, Miller, Hansen, and Vinehout; cosponsored by Representatives Mason, Sinicki, Milroy, Turner, Hilgenberg, Colon, Grigsby, Pope-Roberts, Pocan, Berceau, Kessler, Zepnick, Black, A. Williams, Garthwaite, Soletski, Sherman, Shilling, Benedict, Toles, Krusick, and Young. (Report adoption of Senate Substitute Amendment 1, Ayes 3, Noes 2, passage as amended recommended by committee on Labor, Elections and Urban Affairs, Ayes 3, Noes 2) Senate Substitute Amendment 1 pending
Senate Bill 2. Relating to: the filing of a wage claim or the bringing of a wage claim action by a collective bargaining representative on behalf of an employee and the priority of a wage claim lien over a prior lien of a commercial lending institution and over the rights of a purchaser of any property of the employer. (FE) By Senators Lehman, Robson, Hansen, Wirch, Carpenter, Decker, Kreitlow, Erpenbach, Coggs, Miller, Plale, Holperin, and Taylor; cosponsored by Representatives Garthwaite, Sinicki, Mason, Black, Turner, Jorgensen, Zepnick, and Cullen. (Report passage recommended by committee on Labor, Elections and Urban Affairs, Ayes 3, Noes 2)
Senate Bill 7. Relating to: the filing of certain forms related to tax incremental financing district number ten in the city of Chippewa Falls. (FE) By Senator Kreitlow; cosponsored by Representatives Dexter, Wood, and Suder. (Report passage recommended by committee on Health, Health Insurance, Privacy, Property Tax Relief, and Revenue, Ayes 7, Noes 0)
Twelfth Order. Second reading and amendments of assembly joint resolutions and assembly bills.
Thirteenth Order. Third reading of joint resolutions and bills.
Fourteenth Order. Motions may be offered.
Fifteenth Order. Announcements, adjournment honors, and remarks under special privilege.
Sixteenth Order. Adjournment.
I voted against the minimum wage increase
Today on the floor of the state Senate, I voted against an increase in Wisconsin's minimum wage.
The timing of the proposal is horrible given our recession. A new survey shows 25 percent of American companies are planning a salary freeze. Residents across Wisconsin are accepting pay cuts just to preserve the jobs they have. The state Senate wants to impose a salary hike on Wisconsin businesses that will kill jobs and hurt businesses.
I received several communications from a constituent very concerned about the impact on camps. The constituent correctly points out that the minimum wage increase bill contains a 24 percent increase for minor staff and an 11 percent increase for adult staff at camps. The increases that would go into effect this June would create an immediate $10,000 shortfall at the constituent's camp. Camp directors do not want to see themselves put in the terrible position of contributing to increasing the unemployment numbers.
Because this bill will create layoffs, kill jobs, and raise unemployment at the worst possible time in our state and national economies, I voted against the minimum wage increase on the floor of the state Senate today.
Federal stimulus would hurt Wisconsin
I blogged that the federal stimulus package being considered by Congress will not solve budget problems being encountered in all states, including Wisconsin.
Governor Doyle in his State of the State address said the stimulus package would not solve Wisconsin's budget deficit. The Wisconsin State Journal writes the stimulus could make our budget problems even worse. The newspaper writes:
"The federal largesse — up to $4 billion or more for Wisconsin alone — carries the potential of leaving the state budget worse off in the future if the economy doesn't recover and lawmakers don't do a better job than they have in the past of making sure the state lives within its means."
You can read the entire State Journal piece here.
Victories for photo ID, just not in Wisconsin
Requiring a photo ID to vote is a concept I strongly support, even more so after a recent court ruling and some significant findings from the November 2008 election.
Georgia's photo ID law, one of the strictest in the country, had its constitutionality upheld by an appellate court on January 14, 2009. The court compared obtaining a photo ID to air travel, writing in its decision:
"Before an adult passenger can board an airplane for a commercial flight in the United States, the passenger must present to a federal official an identification card with a photograph of the passenger. The burden of that exercise assists the federal government in keeping passengers safe from physical harm. We conclude that the burden imposed by the requirement of photo identification is outweighed by the interests of Georgia in safeguarding the right to vote."
The Georgia case was like many other court challenges to photo ID laws in that the plaintiffs were unable to produce evidence of individuals who either did not already possess a valid ID or could not easily obtain one. Two witnesses testified, according to the court ruling, "that they could and would obtain a free photo identification with little difficulty."
More evidence strengthening the validity of requiring photo ID comes from the November 2008 presidential election. Hans von Spakovsky, a former commissioner on the Federal Election Commission and a former Justice Department official did some digging and uncovered some fascinating data about photo ID and voter turnout. Remember, opponents of photo ID argue that the requirement will suppress turnout, especially among minorities.
Von Spakovsky notes black turnout during the November 2008 election was an all-time high. He examined results from Indiana and Georgia, the two states with the strictest voter ID requirements.
Von Spakovsky found that numbers released by American University indicate Georgia had the largest turnout in the state's history. The black share of Georgia's vote increased from 25 percent during the 2004 election while Georgia did not have a photo ID law to 30 percent during the 2008 election while a photo ID requirement was enforced. Neighboring Mississippi that does not have a photo ID law and has a black population comparable to Georgia saw an increased turnout of just 2.35 percent.
What about Indiana, with a strict photo ID law ruled constitutional during 2008 by the U.S. Supreme Court? Von Spakovsky found that during the November 2008 election, Democrat turnout increased by 8.32 percent, the largest Democrat turnout increase in the U.S. Neighboring Illinois that does not have a photo ID law experienced just a 4.4 percent increase.
Von Spakovsky came to the conclusion that there is overwhelming evidence photo ID laws do not suppress voter turnout. In fact, Von Spakovsky believes voter confidence in the election system is enhanced by photo ID laws.
Opposition to voter IDs has come largely from those fearing the requirement will disenfranchise voters without IDs or would find it difficult to acquire them. The evidence suggests otherwise.
I have always supported and continue to support the implementation of a photo ID requirement for voting in Wisconsin.
Digital TV update
I have blogged extensively about the scheduled February nationwide conversion to all-digital television. Congress has voted to delay the conversion from February 17, 2009 to June 12, 2009.
Here are complete details from MSNBC.
Prior to the vote by the House, ZDNet.com editorialized that a delay was unnecessary and costly.
Valentine's Day in a state park?
Despite the frigid temperatures, Wisconsinites are taking advantage of the candlelight events in Wisconsin state parks and forests. More events are scheduled in the next few weeks. The Department of Natural Resources says they can even be, "romantic."
Here are details.
Governor Doyle gets petty
Governor Doyle is one of only a handful of governors to refuse to sign a proclamation honoring President Ronald Reagan.
Here are the details.
Great news for a great Wisconsin industry
Near the end of 2008, I blogged about a significant agreement that would streamline the review of cranberry marsh expansions in Wisconsin. The cranberry industry is one of the largest in Wisconsin. I wrote that, "The 2008 Wisconsin cranberry crop will be above earlier projections and demand for the berries is strong worldwide."
The predictions were true. The Wisconsin State Journal reports cranberry production during 2008 was the highest on record. That is excellent news for our state!
Rhetoric masks real goals
During 1919, Wisconsin became one of the first states to enact a minimum wage. It was 22 cents per hour. Today, the minimum wage is $6.50. This week, Senate Democrats voted to increase the minimum wage to $7.60 by June of this year, and to index it to inflation every year thereafter. It is only fair; they say poor families are losing ground to inflation.
Well, let us take a look. During 1919, our minimum wage was 22 cents per hour. Adjusted for inflation, according to the bureau of labor statistics, that today would be $2.70. Today's actual minimum wage is over twice that amount.
During 1956, the minimum wage was increased to 70 cents per hour. Indexed to inflation, that would be $5.47 today. During 1989, the wage became $3.65; today, that would be $6.25. Again, growth in the minimum wage outstripped inflation.
Moreover, it is still outstripping inflation. June 1, 2005, Wisconsin's minimum wage went from $5.15 to $5.70, nearly an 11% increase. June 1, 2006, one year later, it was increased another 14%, to $6.50.
This latest increase, if it becomes law, will be another 16.9% increase. That will be a 47.6% increase just since 2005. Inflation has not been anywhere close to that increase.
Clearly, this is not about lifting people out of poverty, or keeping up with inflation as proponents say. It is about power, government power, and the power to take money from one person, and give it to another person. To stick government fingers deeper and deeper into other people's pies, and set the stage for even more government power by pitting groups of citizens against each other.
Proponents of increasing the minimum wage hope to convince us that the government must act, and act big, to save us all.
It is likely we will see that strategy replayed repeatedly during this session of the Wisconsin Legislature. To save us all from the rising cost of health care, Democrats are already pursuing policies that will force increases in the cost of health insurance. As those costs rise, more people will be unable to afford health care, and government health care will be the only answer!
To save us from a bad economy, Democrats will spend billions upon billions of our dollars and create a lot of debt burdening us, our children and grandchildren, and convince us that government action alone saved us from the recession! Never mind that their own government policies of high taxes, constant regulation, and a new bureaucracy for every problem create a bad economic environment and prevent businesses from using their dollars to build business and add jobs in our state and in our country.
The irony is, if lawmakers during 1919 had been able to see the path they were starting with their 22-cent minimum wage, they likely would not have done it.
Reminder: College Goal Sunday is this weekend
The 4th annual College Goal Sunday takes place all over Wisconsin on February 21st and 22nd, 2009. College Goal Sunday offers help to high school seniors and their families seeking financial aid for college.
Over 1,400 students and parents attended the 2008 event. The 2009 College Goal Sunday will be held at 20 different sites with financial aid experts on hand to assist with Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms that determine the amount of aid a student is eligible to receive. Students that complete the FAFSA may receive state or federal grants, scholarships, campus jobs in the work study program, low interest loans or other forms of financial assistance.
I encourage constituents to attend these events to receive valuable information that can make the complex procedure of financial aid application much easier.
More information is available at the College Goal Sunday website. Here are the locations for College Goal Sunday. You may call a toll-free number, 1-866-578-GOAL (4625) for more information.
Wisconsin is to blame for its budget troubles
The executive and legislative branches of Wisconsin government are about to begin work on their single most important piece of business: the biennial state budget. The process is lengthy and complex with deliberations that will dominate the Capitol landscape until summer.
After the governor presents his 2009-11 state budget proposal to a joint session of the Legislature, the most powerful committee in state government, the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) reviews the document. Following the JFC's budget action, both the Assembly and Senate propose their own budgets that will be compiled by Democrats that control both houses. The budget approved by the Assembly and Senate must be identical. The governor can then make line item vetoes and sign the budget into law. State lawmakers do have an opportunity to override the governor's vetoes, though doing so is very difficult.
This year's budget debate will be one of the toughest in memory because of the precarious fiscal climate the state confronts. When it comes to fiscal matters, the state of Wisconsin always seems to rank at the top, and usually in a negative manner. Our tax rankings, for example, always place us in the top taxed states. The same holds true for our business climate. Here is another example.
Like many other states, Wisconsin must address a gap in the current budget before it can start tackling the 2009-11 budget. Wisconsin has one of the largest state budget gaps in the country according to a report by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). During 2010, Wisconsin is predicted to have a budget gap that will surpass 17.2 percent of its general fund budget, the fourth largest state budget gap in the country behind Arizona, New York and California.
Certainly, the recession gripping the nation is partially to blame for Wisconsin's budget woes. However, the state is primarily responsible for its fiscal chaos, according to a report by the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute (WPRI). In a nutshell, when crafting state budgets, Wisconsin taxes and spends too much, an irresponsible method of budgeting.
Wisconsin has fallen into the dangerous pattern of spending more than incoming revenue. Previous budget tactics have been highly questionable. Budget holes have been filled with one-time revenues, usually by raiding the state's Transportation Fund designed to channel money toward road projects. The WPRI reports that according to the state's own financial data, "from fiscal years 2001 through 2008, a total of $2.373 billion of these one time, non-routine, revenues was used to help the general fund show positive ending balances. Much of this came from the transportation fund, which was then made whole by issuing debt to backfill the hole left by the transfer."
States are resorting to various measures to solve their budget problems including across the board cuts, hiring and salary freezes, travel bans, and dipping into their rainy-day funds. Wisconsin's rainy-day fund strategy is to hope and pray for constant sunshine. The WPRI reports while the average state keeps between five and ten percent of its general fund revenues (sales, income, corporate taxes) in a rainy-day fund, Wisconsin keeps less than one percent, spending it on ongoing programs .With little to no more money set aside for economic downturns, the state's vulnerable finances are in jeopardy.
I often tell constituents that attend my town hall meetings that the state, like a typical family, should only spend based on what it takes in. For too long Wisconsin has spent above and beyond its means. Yes, there is a recession. However, the state has itself to blame for its own financial mess.
Wal-Mart continues to innovate on health care
I have written several blogs during the past two years recognizing Wal-Mart efforts at developing affordable heath care.
Wal-Mart has opened clinics staffed by certified nurse practitioners that treat common family illnesses such as sore throat, ear infection, seasonal allergies and bronchitis. Cholesterol screenings, TB testing and flu vaccinations are also available. Other retailers like Target, CVS, and Walgreens have followed suit. Wal-Mart has also revolutionized access to prescription drugs, offering $4 medications.
During May 2008, Jim Jubak, senior markets editor for MSN Money went so far as to recommended in a column that Wal-Mart run the health care system.
Now comes word from the Washington Post that Wal-Mart's successful trend continues. The newspaper reports, "Washington policymakers contemplating a fundamental overhaul of the nation's troubled health-care system may want to study the saga of Wal-Mart. Once vilified for its stingy health benefits, the world's largest company has become an unlikely leader in the effort to provide affordable care without bankrupting employers, their workers or taxpayers in the process."
Only 5.5 percent of Wal-Mart employees are un-insured, compared to the national rate of 18 percent. Wal-Mart has implemented digital records, and has teamed up with the renowned Mayo Clinic.
The Wal-Mart experience, though not perfect, has had more than enough progress to have observers calling the huge retailer an "innovator" and "leader" in health care. The public sector would be wise to pay attention.
Read more in the Washington Post.
Read my previous blogs on this issue:
Wal-Mart to the rescue
Walgreens follows Wal-Mart's lead
Wal-Mart to the rescue, again
Business writer says Wal-Mart equipped to run health care system
Governor Doyle's budget message should have been about taxpayer protectionIt would have been nice to hear the theme of Governor Doyle's state budget address tonight to be about his 2009-11 budget protecting Wisconsin taxpayers. The governor failed to emphasize that mission clearly, strongly, and repeatedly.
The last route the state should take is the direction the governor laid out in his 2007-09 budget address that proposed new tax and fee increases totaling $1.75 billion. The approved 2007-09 state budget that I voted against, according to the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau increased taxes and fees by $763,272,000. Wisconsin's beleaguered taxpayers in this economic downturn simply cannot afford more hits to their pocketbooks.
Every metropolitan area in Wisconsin suffered job losses during 2008. Many employers are cutting back on their payrolls. At the national level, the U.S. Labor Department reported during January that claims for unemployment insurance are at a record high. At a time job security is not a guarantee, layoffs are increasing, and workers are accepting pay cuts to salvage their jobs, state government needs to refrain from taking away more of taxpayers' hard-earned money. The government does not need the money as much as Wisconsinites need their income. Instead, it should remain in the hands of taxpayers.
Wisconsin remains one of the highest taxed states in the nation. Governor Doyle needed to acknowledge this well-documented fact and tell a statewide audience that his budget will put taxpayers first, not state coffers. For the sake of taxpayers, it would have been nice for GovernorDoyle to propose a budget that puts the brakes on runaway state spending and refrains from any new tax and fee increases. No new taxes. No new fees. No tax increases. No fee increases.
My suspicions were correct that the message the governor delivered would not be taxpayer-friendly given his overtures about a hospital tax, a tax on oil companies, an income tax increase, and yet another cigarette tax increase. The governor proposed new tax and fee increases as he did two years ago with a budget calling for increases to the tune of $1.75 billion. How will taxpayers around the state pay for budget increases with jobs and payrolls being slashed? These dire straits are the worst possible time to place a heavier burden on workers and families by increasing taxes and fees.
It would have been nice to hear the governor reach out directly to Wisconsin homeowners paying some of the highest property taxes in the nation, and propose a statewide property tax freeze. Such an idea would have had Wisconsinites watching his speech on television leap from their seats in cheers of approval. While a property tax freeze would be welcomed in every corner of the state, we reminisce that the governor vetoed a property tax freeze in the past.
School aids are increasing under the governor's budget. Todd Berry of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance believes this could result in a five to seven percent statewide average property tax increase.
One week after the state Senate approved a job-killing measure to increase the minimum wage with annual automatic increases based on the rate of inflation, the governor needed to strongly urge the Legislature to stop considering bills that will hurt Wisconsinites, businesses, employees, consumers. This stern warning needed to be issued before the Legislature does even more damage.
Wisconsin's business climate is one of the worst in the nation. It would have been nice to hear the governor say that higher taxes, fees, and government spending will only make it more difficult rather than more accommodating for businesses to create or retain jobs.
Wisconsin's per capita income levels are some of the lowest in the country. I hoped the governor would cite this statistic and tell the state that more cannot be taken from workers earning less. Sadly, he did not.
Our state's budget gap is the fourth highest in the country. To illustrate the seriousness our fiscal situation ranks, we are being mentioned in the same sentence as states like California and New York that are experiencing budget meltdowns. In the past, we have spent, borrowed, and pushed our troubles ahead into the next budget. It would have been nice to hear the governor proclaim that the days of charge card budgeting ended.
The 2009-11 state budget must not be about new taxes and increased spending. The next biennial state budget must be about protecting you, the taxpayers. That is the clear, concise message that would have been nice to hear from Governor Doyle over and over again tonight. For the sake of taxpayers in need of protection, it was a disappointment.
Wisconsin roads were safer during 2008
Wisconsin had 589 traffic fatalities during 2008 compared to 739 during 2007, a 20 percent decline. Virginia also had a 20 percent decline in traffic fatalities.
Only the District of Columbia (30 percent), Massachusetts (27 percent), Alaska (23 percent), and Hawaii (22 percent) had a greater percentage drop in traffic fatalities than Wisconsin.
Read more in USA TODAY.
Joint Audit Committee approves full review of Wisconsin Shares
As a member of the Joint Committee on Audit, I voted in favor of a full audit of the taxpayer-funded Wisconsin Shares child care program. I was the first legislator to call for an audit following an investigative series by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The Joint Committee on Audit approved an audit of Wisconsin Shares, 10-0.
Prior to the vote, State Auditor Janice Mueller informed the committee an audit of Wisconsin Shares would be conducted in two phase. An investigative phase to ascertain the scope of the problems in Wisconsin Shares would be conducted and completed no later than this June. The second phase would evaluate issues of quality and assess the program's regulatory process.
During the hearing, I mentioned that a past audit that I requested of the Food Stamp program was intended to catch or minimize the problems encountered in Wisconsin Shares because the Food Stamp program is an access point for other programs. I asked Auditor Mueller if there were reasons why this did not occur. Mueller said the answers are hard to come by because of delays and backlogs in food stamp applications.
I also asked Mueller if the Audit Bureau would be sampling the experiences of foster parents. Mueller confirmed that input would be sought from foster parents and that if anyone wanted to provide information anonymously, they could contact the state's toll-free hotline of waste and fraud.
Prior to the committee vote, I testified, asking for a full audit of the Wisconsin Shares child care program. Here is my testimony:
Testimony of Senator Mary Lazich
On Audit request of Wisconsin Shares
Joint Committee on Audit
February 19, 2009
Good morning, Co-committee chairs Senator Vinehout and Representative Barca and committee members. Thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony to the Joint Committee on Audit on my request about an audit of the Wisconsin Shares program.
Many of us recall the blaring headline on the front page of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel just a few weeks ago: "Child-care scams rake in thousands." That was the newspaper's introduction to a series of investigative reports on Wisconsin Shares, the state taxpayer supported child care system. The $340-million program, when successful, provides assistance to low-income parents to help them get and retain jobs.
However, during the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's four-month long investigation, it discovered Wisconsin Shares was not operating effectively or appropriately. The newspaper found what it called, "a trail of phony companies, fake reports and shoddy oversight."
The Journal Sentinel reported, "The system allows child-care providers and parents to easily con the system, capitalizing on children for public cash." With limited access to child care cases, the Journal Sentinel still was able to pinpoint $750,000 in suspicious child-care disbursements.
Taxpayers funding this program demand answers and accountability concerning these serious allegations. The current conditions outlined by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel are unacceptable. The newspaper's findings include counties accepting almost anything as verification of employment for parents requesting assistance, caseworkers approving child care while children were at school all day, and regulators reluctant to revoke licenses for fraud.
My fear is that the problems associated with Wisconsin Shares are even more serious than the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel uncovered. It appears the state and local governments investigated refused to provide some information to the newspaper. That indicates to me that the true scope of the problem could be even more serious and widespread. That is the reason a full audit of Wisconsin Shares is necessary.
I liken this to the welfare fraud allegations that led to major reform in Wisconsin that served as a model for the rest of the nation. The newspaper articles along with a thorough review could lead to a much-needed overhaul of the program. Like the welfare scandals years ago, the taxpaying public will not tolerate waste and fraud. We have to protect the taxpayers and we must ensure that the truly needy, the truly deserving are receiving program services. Measures to prevent cash-grabbing scams can be put in place only after a full audit.
The Legislative Audit Bureau will have far greater access and cooperation than the newspaper received and I trust will do an excellent job determining the seriousness of the fraud in Wisconsin Shares.
Wisconsin should have learned from Illinois
Governor Doyle re-introduced his hospital tax proposal that was rejected during the 2008 state budget repair bill deliberations. It was included in the governor's budget repair bill that was signed into law last week. Doyle calls it an assessment, however it is a tax that supporters claim will bring in more federal dollars to the state.
Illinois has implemented a hospital tax, and is now experiencing a major problem: the promised federal money has yet to arrive.
The State Journal Register of Springfield, Illinois reports:
"The idea is for hospitals to pay money to the state. That money then is used to generate extra Medicaid funds from the federal government. The result is a cash boost for hospitals and state government.
The first step in the assessment program, however, requires the state to come up with some cash — about $1 billion as of Friday. That hasn't happened.
Hospital officials throughout the state say the delay has left them in the lurch. They've put off large purchases and reduced travel and other expenses, but they say patient care hasn't been affected."
Here's the entire article.
I voted against the budget repair bill and Governor Doyle's hospital tax that will drastically increase hospital rates.
Authorities cooperate to arrest sexual predator in Waukesha
Because of the efforts of Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen and the state Department of Justice (DOJ), a sexual predator has been taken off the streets of Waukesha. Victoriano Cano-Hernandez, now in custody after his arrest, is also an illegal immigrant.
Here are more details.
Congratulations to Attorney General Van Hollen and the DOJ for a job well done!
State Senate approves breast-feeding bill
The state Senate today took action on Senate Bill 16, a bill to allow breast-feeding in public.
I want to make sure that the public is clear about the details of this bill. This bill is not about the merits of breast-feeding. It is not about whether breast-feeding is healthy or unhealthy. This legislation specifically would allow breast-feeding in any public or private place.
The Legislative Reference Bureau (LRB) provides this analysis of Senate Bill 16:
"This bill permits a mother to breast-feed her child in any public or private location where she is otherwise authorized to be."
The wording of the bill before the state Senate today included the following:
"A mother may breast−feed her child in any public or private location where the mother is otherwise authorized to be. No person may interfere with the right of a mother to breast−feed her child as provided in this section."
An amendment to the bill I authored changed the above wording to the following:
"A mother may breast−feed her child in any public or private location where the mother is otherwise authorized to be. No person may prohibit a mother from breast-feeding her child as provided in this section."
My amendment was approved on a voice vote. Senate Bill 16, as amended, was then approved on a voice vote.
Because breast-feeding in public is not prohibited by Wisconsin law, I was not enamored with Senate Bill 16. However, I feel more comfortable that the legislation was amended to stipulate that no person may "prohibit" as opposed to "interfere" with breast-feeding.
State stimulus package a budget gimmick that won't work
The state Legislature committed the same colossal error Congress made with the federal stimulus. Legislators were swept into the same rush to act as our representatives in Washington. There was little, if any light of day shed on a massive budget repair proposal that was approved by the state Senate and Assembly and signed into law. The taxpaying public and the news media did not have the proper time to review the nearly 400-page bill legislators suddenly had dumped on their calendars. The package increases business taxes by $215 million over the next three years, imposes a hospital tax, and taxes Internet sales.
For many legislators, the prospect of all this money from Washington is a God-send. They can tell their constituents that the funding will be used to save education and health care and roads. Goodness knows there is a lot of money. According to the Wisconsin Legislative Fiscal Bureau, Wisconsin will likely receive more than $3 billion. More than $2 billion of the $3 billion will go to education and medical assistance.
What happens, though, when this one-time money, and it is important to note that this is one-time money, dries up? What happens when it is all gone and our needs and wants continue? Using it to prop up our budget would be like using lottery winnings. Once the winnings run out, the expenses remain and we simply face the same problem in two years, only without the same one-time money.
The general public's support of big bailouts and huge stimulus packages has been on the decline. Citizens understand that with huge stimulus packages, we are merely buying bigger and more serious fiscal problems down the road. Deficits won't go down. Debt won't disappear. In the nottoo distant future when our fiscal crisis has not been solved, we will wonder what went wrong. We can simply point to the budget repair package the state enacted that is not a cure-all, and just a short-term, feel-good fix for some.
In one day the enormous bill was rammed through the Legislature, marking the only chance most legislators would have to vote on anything marginally related to the billions of federal stimulus dollars Wisconsin is expecting. We should be using this "stimulus" to make it easier for businesses to do business, to make Wisconsin a more profitable place to be. That is what spurs economic growth and creates jobs.
If anything, this bill does the opposite. This bill makes it harder to do business in Wisconsin. Business is the horse that pulls the cart.
I understand that my colleagues want to protect government programs. However, they should keep in mind that the money for those programs starts with business. Business provides every cent that any of us, government included, spend. When you make conditions more difficult forbusiness, you run the high risk of losing business. That means less money for workers, consumers, and less incoming revenue for government.
If the state isn't going to actually try to stimulate the economy with this "stimulus" bill, the state must not fall into the trap of using whatever federal stimulus money it receives to prop up existingspending. With so much money coming into the state, we must resist the great temptation to spend it on pet programs and agencies. Our budget situation means difficult days ahead. We must not use the stimulus money to offset our current budget problems.
Wisconsin must fix its budget problems the way we have been promising the people of Wisconsin we'd fix them: the right way, without gimmicks.
The GAB is missing a priority
The Wisconsin Government Accountability Board (GAB) has released its Legislative Agenda for the 2009-10 legislative session. You may note a photo ID requirement to vote is not on the list.
I'm on WisconsinEye
Thursday, February 19, 2009, I did an interview with WisconsinEye about the budget repair bill/stimulus package and Governor Doyle's proposed 2009-11 state budget. You can see the interview here.


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September, 2009
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Migration will be planned and managed in a collaborative manner to achieve the shared goals of collection preservation and access, and according to LAC's strategic objectives. LAC recognizes that the migration of audiovisual recordings can be undertaken in-house or elsewhere. An appropriate combination of the following implementation strategies will be explored:
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The Tides Inn Golf
The Tides Inn is the home of the famous and challenging Golden Eagle Golf Club.
For over 25 years, the Golden Eagle has distinguished itself by hosting numerous Virginia State golf Association events. Havily bunkered and with water in play on six holes, the Golden Eagle measures 6,566 yards from the blue tees and has a USGA rating of 70.9 and a slope of 126.
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