Economic conditions in western and central Wisconsin and across the country are slowly improving. But we still have work to do. While there may be disagreements about how we address it, there is overwhelming consensus that we must do something. I will continue to work to foster an environment that creates good paying jobs, gets Wisconsinites back to work, and keeps our economy growing.
 

Ron visits the Vernon Area Rehabilitation Center where they are working to provide employment opportunities and teaching work skills to local community members.

Deficit reduction is an important part of any plan for long-term economic growth. Families across Wisconsin know a budget is about priorities.  In this economic environment, we must come together to solve the challenge of creating good paying jobs while remaining dedicated to reducing our nation’s deficit.  I am committed to making the tough decisions to support investments and programs that are vital to our economy and at the same time cutting wasteful and unnecessary spending. When times are tough, western and central Wisconsin families tighten their belts and that’s exactly what we need to do in Washington.

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Job Growth

Getting the economy back on track and creating good paying jobs here in Wisconsin is my priority. I am advocating for policies that will create and save jobs, invest in stabilizing state and local economies, and provide help to the unemployed.

We need to invest in our greatest resource – our workers – so that we can remain the most innovative and creative nation in the world.  I support investing in workforce training, education, infrastructure and basic research and development to ensure our workforce is ready to compete in the 21^st century economy. 

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

Read the summary.

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Helping Rural Business Prosper

I authored the Rural Microbusiness Investment Credit togenerate investment in both start up and expanding rural microbusinesses by providing a 35% federal tax incentive to entrepreneurs who invest in their businesses.  This is importantl for businesses in the midst of recession that need assistance in making critical investments. The credit is specifically targeted to entrepreneurs who are operating businesses in economically distressed rural areas where access to capital has always been a challenge and is even more difficult with the recent decline in bank lending to small businesses.