Designating the bacterium Lactococcus lactis as the Wisconsin state microbe.
Impact
The introduction of AB800 indicates a legislative effort to promote awareness of Wisconsin's microbiological contributions to its renowned dairy sector. By designating a state microbe, Wisconsin would align itself with other states that have recognized specific organisms for their cultural or economic importance, reinforcing the connection between microbial science and agricultural practices. This could also have educational implications, as it emphasizes the role of bacteria in food production and public health, potentially leading to increased interest in microbiology and related fields among the state's youth.
Summary
Assembly Bill 800 aims to designate the bacterium Lactococcus lactis as the official state microbe of Wisconsin. This bacterium is well-known for its use in the production of various dairy products, particularly cheese. The bill highlights the significance of Lactococcus lactis in Wisconsin's agricultural and dairy industries, thereby acknowledging its contributions to the state's economy and culture. The enactment of this bill will further enrich the list of symbols representing Wisconsin's heritage and identity, as it will be included in the Wisconsin Blue Book alongside the state's other official symbols.
Contention
Although the bill appears to be largely uncontroversial, there may be varying levels of public interest in the designation of a microbe as a state symbol. Opponents might argue that such designations could be overly specific or not reflective of broader public interests. Additionally, there might be discussions about the selection process of state symbols and how representative they are of the state's diversity, with regard to other notable organisms or agricultural products that might also warrant recognition.