Jill Billings
State representative
Democrat
La Crosse 
Elected Experience
Wisconsin State Assembly (2011-present); La Crosse County Board (2004-2012)
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters elect you?
Over my 15 years of service I have proven to be a very hard worker for the people I represent and while in the minority I have still been able to get things done in a bi-partisan manner. I have passed bills concerning human trafficking, clean water, substance abuse, hunting and fishing, stopping on-line predators and scenic byways. I have always carried a heavy load of commissions and committees because I enjoy the work and feel it's important to have the ears and eyes of Western Wisconsin at the table in the legislature. My staff and I understand the importance of listening to constituents and addressing their needs in a timely manner.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
In the past, I would have said either education, healthcare or taxes are the top issues. Currently, affordability has risen to be an extremely important issue to voters in my district. Current practices on the federal level have left people feeling uncertain of the future and concerned about the price of fuel, groceries, taxes, healthcare and insurance. I still believe we should use some of the surplus for tax relief. Although it is difficult for states to alleviate all problems of affordability resulting from federal level policies, we can use some surplus dollars for help for first time home buyers, relief from state fuel taxes and helping with healthcare costs.
How should Wisconsin government operate differently than in the past?
Wisconsin government should operate in a more bi-partisan manner, while listening to the needs and concerns of all Wisconsinites. In my years serving in the state Assembly minority party I was able to get some bills signed into law, although it is extremely rare for that to happen. Under Republican control, only 2-4% of Democratic sponsored bills even received a public hearing. I believe we can work better for the people of Wisconsin when both parties have a seat at the table.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
Since we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, my fun fact is that our very own Wisconsin State Historical Society houses many important national historical documents. Our collection includes significant early drafts and historical prints of the U.S. Constitution and papers from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. As a member of the Board of Curators and the State Building Commission, I am proud that we will soon have a new Wisconsin History Center to display more of our 290 million items of historical significance. I am also grateful to the early collectors who brought these incredible artifacts to our Historical Society in Wisconsin for preservation.