“How can I replace my permanent resident card?” – Noelle

The “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card” is available online at http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-90.pdf.  You can then file your form electronically at https://efiling.uscis.dhs.gov/efile/ or make an appointment with the Milwaukee Field Office through http://infopass.uscis.gov/index.php.  For more information on the Milwaukee Office, visit https://egov.uscis.gov/crisgwi/go?action=offices.detail&office=MIL&OfficeLocator.office_type=LO&OfficeLocator.zipcode=53202. 

 
 

"Is there any grant money for schools to install security systems in Wisconsin?" - Kitty

In recent years, grant money has not been made available for this purpose.  However, in light of the recent Virginia Tech shootings, some grants may become available in the future.  Please contact the Office of Justice Assistance at http://oja.wi.gov or (608) 266-3323 to inquire further about grants for school security systems.

In addition, the Governor has assembled a Task Force on Campus Safety that may produce some guidance on this issue over the coming months.  Visit the following website for more information on the task force: http://oja.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1147&locid=97

 
 

I am a small business owner and question whether or not one of my employees is in the United States legally.  Is there a way you can inquire about or verify his status?

The State of Wisconsin has no authority in these matters.  It is a federal issue that should be directed to  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  Due to the volume of illegal aliens currently in the US, ICE may give priority to the cases involving illegal immigrants suspected of criminal activity.  For more information on ICE, visit www.ice.gov. 

 
 

"Do I need a passport to DRIVE, not fly, from Michigan into Canada.  I have a certified birth certificate and a valid driver's license.  Is that all I will need?" - Tania

It depends on the timing of your trip.  Starting as soon as January 2008, Americans driving to Canada will need to carry a passport to re-enter the country.  I suggest you consult  the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.  Visit http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/alerts/whti/documents_needed.xml for more information.

 
 

"How does this website work?" -- Ben Wyman, Madison

Wisconsin citizens are welcome to direct their homeland security questions to Major General Albert Wilkening, the Wisconsin State Homeland Security Advisor as appointed by Governor Jim Doyle.  When appropriate, General Wilkening (or a member of his staff) will respond to your questions and post the response under the "Your Questions Answered" section of this website.