A hair-raising experience for one Wisconsin lawmaker

It is a much different look for one Wisconsin state lawmaker, and a visual reminder of how long it can take to get things done in Madison. State Assemblyman Jonathon Brostoff has refused to cut his hair for the past year. Normally sporting a buzz cut, Brostoff now looks a bit like Larry from the Three Stooges with a receding hairline and curly locks flowing down onto his shoulders. Brostoff isn’t trying to start a new fashion trend. Rather, he is promising not to get his haircut until the state passes a law that addresses the shortage of sign language interpreters for the deaf community. His bill would make quality sign language interpreters more accessible, while cracking down on interpreters acting illegally. The bill also would protect those deaf citizens who need sign language services in, for example, medical and legal settings. Often, the deaf struggle to communicate effectively, and can run into trouble during traffic stops when an officer gives them commands. It is not clear who is against this legislation, but Brostoff first introduced the bill in 2014 when he was first elected. It never made it out of committee for a vote. So Brostoff continues to grow his hair, channeling his inner Samson. His long locks serve as a daily reminder of his pledge to the deaf community. It is time for lawmakers to at least vote on this legislation, and let this representative finally get his much needed haircut.