Economy

These are unprecedented economic times and they require unprecedented action. Economic conditions in western Wisconsin and across the country have been difficult. While there may be disagreements about how we address it, there is overwhelming consensus that we must do something.

I believe the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was bold and fast acting. The President’s Council of Economic Advisers estimates that investments made through the Recovery Act have boosted employment in Wisconsin by 63,000 jobs through the first six months of 2010.

The Recovery Act stuck the right balance: tax cuts to give relief and spending power to 95 percent of American families, help for men and women hit the hardest by this recession, aid to state and local governments, and investment in infrastructure and new industries that is creating jobs right now.

Finally, this package included the accountability and transparency that was missing during the Bush Administration. People know where and how their tax dollars are being spent. To highlight American Recovery and Reinvestment Act projects in western Wisconsin and help ensure the transparency of the legislation, my office has created this map that reflects projects and data reported to the federal government as of June 30, 2010.

Recovery Act funds are making a great impact here in western Wisconsin. Whether in the form of tax credits, funding for our school districts, dollars for highway and transportation projects, or incentives for families to increase energy efficiency in their homes and businesses – the Recovery Act has supported projects and jobs that may have otherwise gone unfunded. We will continue to update the map to show residents how and where tax payer dollars are helping jumpstart the economy and getting Wisconsinites back to work.

Click here for more information on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.             

Click here to see a map of all Recovery Act projects underway in western Wisconsin.

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American Made: Ensuring a Strong Economy

We must build, construct and grow manufacturing in Wisconsin and across America in order to ensure a strong American economy.   

That's why I've put together a plan to help us do just that. 

Read my manufacturing agenda.

Read the summary.
 
By capitalizing on existing American strengths – a well educated and well trained labor force, innovation, and competitive spirit; supporting the transformation and growth of America’s manufacturers to move into the markets of the future; and by coordinating with federal, state, local governments and private institutions, we can ensure America’s economic success. 

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Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act

Over the past year and a half, we became aware of many financial practices that were abusive and reckless.  On July 21, 2010, the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was signed into law, putting an end to those practices and making “too big to fail” a thing of the past.  Americans will no longer be responsible for the bad business choices and irresponsible behavior that almost brought down our entire financial system.  

For more information on the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, click here.

Click here for a Financial Crisis Interactive Timeline.