WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- Welcome to the Presidents' Day edition of MacIver Monday. But did you know the official name of the day, according to the federal government, is actually Washington's Birthday? It's true. For some reason George Washington has to share the day with every other president since him. But given the fact he willingly left office after two terms, my guess is he wouldn't mind sharing.
One way to honor Ol' George? Get out and vote in Wisconsin's nonpartisan primary elections tomorrow. The guy survived a winter in Valley Forge. The least you can do is make it to the town hall/local school/wherever else your polling place is between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Now on to this week's stories.
Spotlight
PFAS Chaos and the Politics of Liability
The battle over what to do with PFAS chemicals in the groundwater has gone on for a while now. And while both Republicans and Democrats offer their own approaches, a true bipartisan solution has yet to take shape.
One of the key sticking points is who to hold responsible for PFAS contamination. Gov. Evers and the environmental-left want to place a huge burden on what Richard Moore calls the "productive economy." Private businesses, manufacturers, and industries remain fully liable, even when they are passive recipients of PFAS. Read more of Richard's analysis here.
Deep Dive
DHS Picks Firm With Union Ties, Checkered Past For IRIS Contract
The IRIS program provides in-home care for about 30,000 Wisconsinites on Medicaid. We reported earlier about Public Partnerships LLC (PPL) being under consideration for a 10-year state contract to run the program -- despite a long history of troubles administering similar programs in other states. Well, PPL won the bidding process. Our latest report shows how PPL has multiple possible conflicts of interest that may result in even more pain for taxpayers.
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Coming Soon
Some Republican Lawmakers Unimpressed With Tribes’ Gambling Pitch
The future of off-site sports gambling in Wisconsin continues to work its way through the state legislature. Tribal leaders recently outlined their plans, but at least some legislative Republicans are reluctant to expand access to mobile gambling in the state.
You Should Know
Wisconsin Wake Boats Debate: Local Control and Property Rights
As the Wisconsin State Legislature session winds down, dueling bills have been proposed to outline the future of wake boating in the state.
Dylan Wilder breaks down the issue and the path forward for boaters and property owners.
Quick Click
Wisconsin Assembly Okays Ankle Monitors For Homeless Sex Offenders
The State Assembly approved legislation last week that would use ankle bracelets to track homeless sex offenders. And, in an era of partisan rancor, it did so with overwhelming bipartisan support.
The State Senate approved the same legislation back in January. The proposal now heads to Gov. Evers for his signature.
For Your Commute
15 years ago, the protests over the legislation that would become Act 10 were in fully force. Take a look back at that crazy chapter of Wisconsin history with our video below.
About MacIver Institute: The MacIver Institute is a Wisconsin-based think tank that promotes free markets, individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government. Through research, analysis, and community engagement, we work to advance these principles and positively impact the lives of all Wisconsinites.
Last Update: Feb 16, 2026 2:37 pm CST
