Despite $250M Facebook settlement, Pfaff says Wisconsin isn't doing enough regulating tech

Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff stopped by the studio to warn that despite a landmark Meta settlement, state lawmakers are failing to pass lasting regulations on Big Tech. Coming off the multistate lawsuit settlement — where Wisconsin is set to receive over $250 million from a $17 billion national payout — Pfaff called it a major step for the state, but warned it’s only a starting point for broader tech regulation. He again criticized the GOP-controlled Legislature for ending session with eight months left in 2026, rather than tackling Big Tech, AI data centers, or school device rules head-on. That inaction, Pfaff argued, leaves local communities to fend for themselves on everything from data center expansion to Flock surveillance cameras  Aside from tech, Pfaff also got into some agriculture issues — like Trump’s beef import decision and meat and seed monopolies. Wednesday, Pfaff is hosting his fifth “corn roast” that was started 26 years ago. All the big Democratic names will be at the La Crosse County Fairgrounds in West Salem — from David Crowley to Josh Kaul to Rebecca Cooke and all the area legislative Dems. The event runs 5:30-8 p.m. and will feature free brats, hot dogs, beer, soda and — of course — corn. Episode Highlights: Meta Settlement Millions: Wisconsin is set to receive over $250 million from a landmark Big Tech payout, with plans to target early youth mental health intervention. Data Center Pushback: Unlikely alliances form as left and right voters unite in opposition against massive AI infrastructure projects and Flock surveillance cameras. School Cell Banning: Local control versus statewide action on phone restrictions in classrooms sparks debate ahead of local superintendent discussions. Beef Supply Shortage: A national herd low and a 300,000 metric ton import decision from Argentina trigger sharp warnings over corporate meatpacking control. Free Corn, Big Names: State Sen. Brad Pfaff previews his 5th annual West Salem corn roast on Wednesday, featuring gubernatorial candidate David Crowley and AG Josh Kaul. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.