Issues

I firmly believe that "State government should do more to encourage job growth, reduce spending, support economic development, restore public trust and then GET OUT OF THE WAY!" As your representative in Madison, I will work to: 

Taxes & Regulations 
Wisconsin’s complex regulatory and tax policies are contributing to unemployment in the district and the state.Wisconsin needs new policies that encourage innovation and profitability so that businesses can grow and prosper. Current subsidies that claim to encourage business growth are not effective and should be phased out to allow market-based competition. Tax credits for new hires are too complicated, especially for small businesses, and should be restructured. Combined Reporting should be repealed. Affordable health insurance options for businesses of all sizes, including micro-entrepreneurs, farmers and independent contractors must be considered. 

Export Assistance 
Businesses in the 45th District and across the State can benefit from increased global demand and international trade. There are literally billions of prospective customers outside of the United States. These countries, particularly those with growing economies, need reliable delivery of quality products and services. Companies that successfully access these markets will need to ramp up their labor force to meet increased production levels. State government must do more to support companies exploring these new opportunities. 

Economic Gardening 
The state of Wisconsin should embrace the principles of economic gardening, an economic development model that seeks to create jobs by supporting existing companies in a community.  Economic gardening connects entrepreneurs to resources, encourages the development of essential infrastructure and provides entrepreneurs with access to competitive intelligence on markets, customers, and competitors that is comparable to the resources customarily only available to large firms. State programs to support this type of economic development would leverage the existing network of small business support services while increasing accessibility, outreach and awareness. 

Rural Economic Development 
Wisconsin’s rural communities are especially sensitive to economic downturns. Commodity pricing for grain and fuel, government controlled prices for milk and unpredictable weather create uncertainty for the average farmer. Agri-tourism, bio-energy, rural access to technology and other programs to promote Wisconsin’s rural heritage and encourage investment in agricultural innovation are opportunities for the district.  Agriculture provides jobs for 8,569 Rock County residents and is the second largest sector of our state’s economy. 

Workforce Development 
In order to ensure long-term prosperity, we must do more to attract and retain young workers in the 45th Assembly District. Existing employers need access to employees with specific skill sets that are sometimes not matched by the pool of available talent. Partnerships such as the Stateline Career and Technical Education Academy will help prepare students for the jobs of the future. Apprenticeship programs for skilled industry trades also provide critical opportunities to earn while you learn and become self reliant. Effective investment in worker training and public education is needed to prepare residents for gainful employment. 

Tourism 
Tourism is the third largest contributor to Wisconsin’s economy and created 5,021 full time equivalent jobs in Rock County in 2009. Promotion of all of Wisconsin’s assets, including those in the District that are unique and convenient for weekend and overnight visitors, would be extremely beneficial to the 45th District. The recent closing of the Visitor Center/I-39/I-90 rest area was unfortunate and indicated a lack of state government support for the “Gateway to Wisconsin”, and a lack of recognition for the District’s cultural and recreational assets. The 45th District should be more than a “rest area” for tourists. This gem of the Rock River Valley is an amazing place to discover, play and learn. By putting our best foot forward, we can encourage people to live, work and invest here as well.