NORTHWEST WISCONSIN — Representative James Edming previously announced his retirement after 10 years of serving Wisconsin's 87th Assembly District, citing his commitment to term limits. In a heartfelt farewell, Edming reflected on his legislative achievements, including tax reductions, support for veterans, and promoting community-based employment for individuals with disabilities.
The Honor of a Lifetime
For the last 10 years, I’ve been privileged to serve the hardworking people of the 87th Assembly District. As I’ve often told folks, this is the best job I’ve ever had. However, all good things must come to an end, and my time as your state representative is coming to a close. While it was tough to walk away, I’m a firm believer in term limits, and after 10 years, it is time to pass the torch.
Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what I was able to deliver for the 87th District. I supported several efforts to reduce the tax burden on Wisconsinites while also increasing our investments in our priorities like K-12 education and veterans services.
I’m proud to have been an advocate for veterans and active duty service members. During the 2021-22 State Budget process, I was successful in leading the effort to eliminate the state income tax on active duty military pay and increase funding for county veteran service officers. This session, Speaker Vos appointed me as only the second non-veteran Chairman of the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee in the last 50 years. This was a highlight of my legislative career, and I’m incredibly proud of the work we did. We passed legislation to remove barriers to hiring direct care staff at our state’s veterans homes and another to make it easier for veterans’ spouses to access care at these facilities. It is my hope that the work we did this session provides a solid foundation for the future.
When authoring legislation, I found that some of the best ideas came from my constituents. Early in my legislative career, I participated in a community discussion in Medford and learned about the barriers faced by some disabled individuals who wish to work in the community. This conversation evolved into the Employment First Act, which was signed into law in 2018. This law made Wisconsin a national leader in promoting community-based employment for people with disabilities. In 2022, I worked with local officials in Rusk County to secure $2.5 million in state funding to remove the hazardous electronic waste left behind by 5R Processors.
I also experienced my fair share of disappointments. One of the proposals I worked the hardest on was the expansion of the veterans and surviving spouses property tax credit. While it passed the Assembly 96-0 in February, the bill failed to pass the Senate before the session ended. While I won’t be here to continue leading this effort, I am hopeful that someone new will continue the fight.
I’d like to end by saying thank you to my wife Marty and my entire family for all of their love and support over the past 10 years. I also want to thank my constituents for this honor of a lifetime. I will be forever grateful for the trust you placed in me to be your voice in the State Assembly. It has been a privilege to serve you!
— Per James Edming
The 87th Assembly District includes all or portions of Marathon, Rusk, Sawyer, and Taylor Counties.
Last Update: Dec 20, 2024 5:13 pm CST
