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Pulling back the curtains on wage-theft enforcement in MN; Trump's latest attack is on RFK, Jr; NM LGBTQ+ equality group endorses 2024 'Rock Star' candidates; Michigan's youth justice reforms: Expanded diversion, no fees.

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says rebuilding Baltimore's Key Bridge will be challenging and expensive. An Alabama Democrat flips a state legislature seat and former Connecticut senator Joe Lieberman dies at 82.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

Heart Association: "Proud of" New Laws Passed in Wisconsin

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Wednesday, June 4, 2014   

WAUSAU, Wis. - New legislation has opened the door for pulse-oximetry screening for all Wisconsin newborns prior to hospital discharge.

Brad Gast of Wausau, chairman of the American Heart Association's Wisconsin's Advocacy Committee, said it was three years of hard work to get the law passed.

"Research has shown that the screening does save lives, and if caught early that can save them from a lifetime of disability and/or premature death," he said, "so it's just critical for a baby to be screened."

Gast said he has no doubt that the "pulse-ox" screening will save lives. Another major victory, he said, was securing a $15 million grant to help small businesses start worksite wellness programs.

"Twenty-five to 30 percent of workplace health costs are related to physical inactivity," he said. "This particular bill is one that really enables employers to offer a worksite wellness program, and really promote the health and wellness of their employees."

Gast said worksite wellness programs are proven to improve heart health and can help lower health-care costs, which also means better morale and more productive employees who call in sick less often.

The American Heart Association in Wisconsin has just named state Sen. Jerry Petrowski, R-Marathon, their "Legislator of the Year." Gast said Petrowski was instrumental in passing the pulse-ox bill, even when its prospects looked bleak.

"He did not give up," Gast said. "He continued to work hard, continued to work across the aisle, build partnerships and found a way to make that happen. So, we're just very excited and very honored to award him that well-deserved award this year."

Gast said everyone can play a role in making sure laws are passed to help make Wisconsin a healthier place.

"It's always important to touch base with your legislator in your particular area," Gast said. "Let him or her know that these issues are important, that they should continue to push these health measures forward, in support not only for families, but all the people in the state of Wisconsin."

The text of the legislation is online at docs.legis.wisconsin.gov.


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