WPR News

Wisconsin Public Radio has a broadcast and online news staff of more than 20 journalists and web professionals located in seven regions. There are over 20,000 news stories available online.

State Capitol Report: Bills Signed And Vetoed, Voter ID Laws

November 25, 2019 - 7:00am

Gov. Evers recently signed a number of bills, including one that would make it a felony to trespass on oil pipeline sites in Wisconsin. A WPR reporter explains what these bills mean. Plus, we look at a lawsuit challenging student voter ID requirements.

Challenges Facing Wisconsin’s Workforce

November 25, 2019 - 6:15am

The unemployment rate remains low compared to recent years, but the state still faces challenges in wage gaps, skills gaps and racial disparities. The secretary-designee of the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development joins us to discuss the latest news related to the state’s workforce.

Community Thanksgiving Dinners Grow And Change But Fellowship Remains

November 25, 2019 - 6:00am

Thanksgiving is seen as a time spent with family and friends⌐ but organizers of community Thanksgiving dinners say the events are designed to introduce neighbors and build community.

After String Of Police Shootings, 2019 Will See Increase In Wisconsin Fatalities

November 25, 2019 - 6:00am

After five people were shot and killed by police in the last five weeks, Wisconsin will end 2019 with more deaths by police than in 2018. Experts say the causes are complex, but mental health crises and the availability of guns are two factors.

Study On Foxconn Deal Shows Government Subsidies Don't Work

November 25, 2019 - 6:00am

Researchers At George Mason University have studied Wisconsin's deal with Foxconn and found the subsidies offered could reduce economic activity in the state.

UW-Madison Saw Second Highest Big Ten Voter Turnout In 2018

November 25, 2019 - 5:50am

Student voter turnout at UW-Madison was the second highest among Big Ten campuses nationwide. A volunteer effort known as the "Big Ten Voting Challenge" worked to mobilize students and help them overcome "roadblocks" like voter ID laws and absentee ballots.

A Look At The 2020 Grammy Nominees

November 22, 2019 - 4:30pm

The 2020 Grammy nominees are out, and there's some new talent being celebrated. We talk about who got the nod, and other trends noted with this year's Grammys.

International Travel Ideas For The Coming Winter Months

November 22, 2019 - 4:15pm

A Christmas tree illuminates the Old Town Square as the traditional Christmas market starts in Prague, Czech Republic.

Florida or Hawaii may seem like perfect getaways during Wisconsin winters, but our guest says it's also a great time for international destinations. We also look into the appeal of "dark tourism" and why we may want to consider a trip to Chernobyl, Auschwitz or other grisly sites.

Bill To Reduce Certified Nursing Assistant Training Fails

November 22, 2019 - 3:30pm

Earlier this week Governor Tony Evers vetoed a bill that called for decreasing the amount of training required for certified nursing assistants. We discuss what proponents and opponents of the bill had to say, and why Evers said he decided to shut down the proposed legislation.

Gov. Tony Evers Approves Poll Access Protections For Voters With Disabilities

November 22, 2019 - 4:45pm

People in Wisconsin have to state their name and address before they can vote. Now, there’s an exception for people with speech-affecting disabilities, who can use written identification instead, or bring a trusted person to say their name and address for them.