WJJQ Radio

Story Details

Felzkowski Comments on Pharmacy Benefit Manager Bill in Senate Published on 02/17/2021 under News
The Wisconsin State Senate approved legislation aimed at helping prescription drug pricing.

The bill, authored by State Senator Mary Felzkowski, puts parameters in place for pharmacy benefit mangers in Wisconsin. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are businesses that administer and manage prescription drug benefits. By negotiating with manufacturers, pharmacies and providers they play a crucial role in the supply chain.

Felzkowski hopes the bill will help lower out-of-pocket drug costs and increase access to better serve patients.

According to the announcement, in the United States, close to 95% of Americans have plans managed by PBMs. Despite managing plans funded by taxpayer dollars, there are currently almost no guidelines for PBMs at the state level. This legislation will put necessary parameters in place that ultimately best serve the patient.

Felzkowski says, "As a legislator who serves a very rural district spanning eleven counties, I can tell you firsthand that independent pharmacies are crucial for access to health care for my constituents. This bill will go a long way in helping these pharmacies stay in business and continue to serve our communities.

The bill passed with bipartisan support in the Senate. It will next move to the assembly for consideration.

In Other News

Aspirus Encourages Safe Medication Disposal Ahead of Drug Take Back Day

Published on 04/23/2026 under News As spring cleaning gets underway, health experts are reminding residents not to overlook one important spot...the medicine cabinet. With Drug Take Back Day set for Saturday, officials with Aspirus say it's a good time to safely dispose of unused or expired medications. Over time, prescriptions and over-the-counter products can build up in homes, increasing the risk of accidental use or misuse. Marisa Harley, a pharmacy resident with Aspirus says expired medications may be less effective and, in some cases, unsafe. Beyond prescriptions, check items like vitamins, supplements, creams, and eye drops, which are often overlooked. When it comes to disposal, officials stress that medications should not be thrown in the trash or flushed, as that can pose safety and environmental risks. Instead, they recommend using designated drop-off locations. Health officials say taking a few minutes to clean out your medicine cabinet can help keep your home and community safer. We'll have a bit more on Drug Take Back Day on the Friday Morning Sunrise Show.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Another Northwoods lawmaker is seeking re-election to Madison. State Representative Rob Swearingen (R–Rhinelander) announced Wednesday that he is running for an eighth two-year term in the Wisconsin State Assembly. Swearingen pointed to his record of supporting economic growth and advocating for the priorities of the 34th Assembly District which included most of Oneida and Vilas Counties. He highlighted efforts related to PFAs, broadband access, and strengthening tourism. In the announcement Swearingen called representing the 34th district an honor. He added, "While other districts have seen significant changes, our district has remained consistent. I look forward to earning the opportunity to continue serving the people of northern Wisconsin." "I'm grateful for the continued support I've received from people across the district as I seek another term." That election will take place in November.

Published on 04/23/2026 under News Tomahawk's golf squad came away with a top-five finish in their first major invite of the season at Barron Wednesday, placing fourth out of 14 teams. The Hatchets finished with a team score 336, placing behind Ladysmith, Hayward, and Amery. The Top Hatchet golfer was Oliver Childers, who shot an 80. Hudson Seymour and Jordyn Carew each shot an 84 and Rocco Carew finished with an 88. The first Great Northern Conference Meet for the Hatchets is Friday afternoon in Merrill. Tee-off is at 2:00.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News The Tomahawk City Council held their first regular meeting post-election. While outgoing mayor Steve Taskay gaveled in the meeting, one of the first agenda items was the oaths of office for winning candidates. That includes new Mayor Michael 'Hob' Habeck who will take over for Taskay after leading the city over the past decade. The swearing in ceremony also include five city council members Pat Haskin, Don Nelson, Steve 'Ding' Bartz, Bob Soward, and Tadd Wegener. Bartz and Soward are both incumbents who won via write-in after no other candidates filed paperwork. Nelson and Wegener are both former alderman returning to the office. After the oaths of office, the council members unanimously re-elected Jeff Kahle as council president. He was the lone nomination. As part of the re-organizational meeting, the Council also approved Mayor Habeck's committee recommendations as presented. It was an otherwise routine meeting. The Council approved several special event applications for returning celebrations. The council approved a previous recommendation to fund the replacement of two police squads. A borrowing resolution is part of the planned Nelson Lane Utility Project. The city is applying for a match grant from the DNR, and the borrowing would cover the city's portion of $350,000. If the city is not selected for the grant, the borrowing would be canceled and the project delayed. The city went through a similar process last year. The Council also approved a resolution for the Fire Department to participate in the State's Public Safety Interoperable Communication System which will help in inter-agency communications via department radio systems.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News In the days following Friday's tornado, support continues to pour in for those impacted in the Ringle area. The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin says more than 120-thousand dollars has already been donated to its Emergency Relief Fund. They're working closely with local partners and a community advisory group to make sure funds reach those who need them most both now and in the weeks ahead. This includes immediate needs like clean-up, but also longer-term support like mental health services and help for families facing delays with insurance claims. Tim Parker, President and CEO says, "We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of generosity. This is a powerful reflection of how deeply people care about their neighbors and their community." Officials stress that 100 percent of donations are going directly to relief efforts. The Foundation says updates will continue as recovery efforts move forward.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News In a bit of "beak-ing" news, Wisconsin Public Service has launched this year's peregrine falcon naming contest. This year people can vote on names inspired by familiar faces from local TV newsrooms. The peregrine falcon chicks hatching at the Weston Power Plant will receive bird-themed takes on local anchors from Channels 7, 9, and, 12. Just a few of the options include Egg-nes Kozina, Jeff Talon, and Bird Miller. The chicks in other WPS/We Energies nesting boxes around the state will get similar names representing their local broadcast markets as well. Voting is open through May 5 on the WPS website, where fans can also keep an eye on the nest box cams for signs of hatching eggs. Once the chicks hatch, they'll be named and banded before eventually leaving the nest. Over the years, more than 460 of the once-endangered peregrine falcons have hatched at the WPS and WE Energies facilities. Each year has naming themes with recent examples include Wisconsin Olympians, the Founding Fathers, and Wisconsin College mascots. WSAW Newschannel 7 anchors Birdie Davies in honor of Emily DaviesFalcon Taylor in honor of Erinn TaylorBen Helwegg in honor of Ben HelwigKassandra Skypeda in honor of Kassandra SepedaJeff Talon in honor of Jeff ThelenSpencer Soarman in honor of Spencer FurmanDale Flyman in honor of Dale RymanFlock Holley in honor of Mark Holley News 9 WAOW anchors Kyle Prey-zorski in honor of Kyle PozorskiBird Miller in honor of Brad MillerJustin Flown in honor of Justin LoewFalcon Garlock in honor of Jackson GarlockKeegan Flewitt in honor of Keegan Hewitt WJFW Newswatch 12 anchors Divin' Biggs in honor of Devin BiggsIan Airris in honor of Ian FarrisDrew Eggshelli in honor of Drew CelliDan Hatchin' in honor of Dan HagenFlock Force in honor of Jake ForceGeoff Feather in honor of Geoff WellerMichael Flownholz in honor of Michael LodholzEggnes Kozina in honor of Agnes Kozina

Published on 04/22/2026 under News While people will be going green for Earth Day, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation is recognizing Go Orange Day, which highlights work zone safety at the start of a busy construction season. The annual event, on the fourth Wednesday of April, encourages people to wear orange in support of the men and women who work on roads and bridges across the state. Transportation officials say the day also serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down and stay alert in work zones. Speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving remain the leading causes of crashes in construction areas. They note that simple actions like putting the phone down and giving crews extra space can help keep both workers and drivers safe during the 2026 construction season. WisDOT is encouraging residents to take part by wearing orange and sharing photos on social media to spread awareness.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News Earth Day has special meaning here in Wisconsin. Former Governor and Senator Gaylord Nelson was instrumental in creating the worldwide movement. People are encouraged to use the day as inspiration to protect the planet all year long. Simple actions around the home can make a difference. The DNR offered up a few tips for people looking to reduce their environmental footprint with a few changes around the home. It can be as simple as reducing food waste by shopping smarter, composting, and recycle. Check for leaks around the home to conserve water. And around your property, focus on native plants and trees while leaving a natural space to improve habitat for wildlife including pollinators. And throughout the month of April the DNR and the 'Friends' groups who volunteer at state park properties will be hosting Work, Play, Earth Day opportunities for chores and upkeep like raking, litter clean-up invasive plant removal, and installing benches and picnic tables.

Published on 04/22/2026 under News Deputies are investigating a hit and run resulting in injuries in Oneida County yesterday morning. According to the Oneida County Sheriff's Office, a 59 year old woman reported being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Kelly Fire Lane and Rozell Road in the town of Little Rice. That call came in at shortly before 8am. According to the release, the initial investigation showed that a vehicle operated by 59-year old, Robert R. Cookson of Little Rice, struck the victim and fled the scene at a high rate of speed. Oneida County Sheriff's Deputies located Cookson's vehicle and conducted a traffic stop a short time later. The woman was transported to an area hospital for treatment of undisclosed injuries. The investigation is ongoing.

Published on 04/21/2026 under Sports Tomahawk's softball squad bounced back Tuesday afternoon at Hatchet Field with a big Great Northern Conference win over Merrill, 4-1. The Hatchets got a complete game victory from Cameron Kraklow, who allowed just one run on seven hits. Averi Petta finished with an RBI triple and a run scored. Autumn Merrigan provided the clutch hit, knocking in a two-run single in the bottom of the fifth to put the Hatchets up 4-0. The win puts Tomahawk at 3-3 on the season and in Great Northern Conference play. The Hatchets go back on the road for a GNC Doubleheader against Antigo Thursday. Game One is at 4:00.

+ Read More