Unemployment Reaches an All-Time Low!

Did you hear the big news? Wisconsin's unemployment rate hit an All TIME LOW in February 2018, dipping down to 2.9%.  The Department of Workforce Development released the Bureau of Labor Statistics preliminary estimates for February revealing this historic low as well as data showing a record high for number of people employed and considered active in the labor force. This is certainly good news for our state and a sign of our strong and growing economy. Our unemployment numbers reflect our dedication to ensuring excellent employment opportunities exist in Wisconsin. This historically low unemployment also highlights the importance of attracting and retaining talent and removing barriers to employment by investing in workforce training and educational opportunities. To that end, I am very proud of the work that the legislature has accomplished this session in order to continue strengthening our workforce. We've invested more funding into need-based scholarships, to ensure that our students get the appropriate training and are prepared to enter the workforce. The legislature also increased funding into the Fast Forward grant program by $11.5 Million, which will help ensure that workforce training programs are meeting employer needs.

Wisconsin's growing economy is demonstrated by more than just our record low unemployment rate. In 2017, Wisconsin exports increased by 6% and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) reported that 59 companies, (including Wisconsin based companies as well as companies around the globe) have decided either to locate or expand in Wisconsin. This development and expansion corresponds to a nearly $11.6 Billion capital investment throughout our state! I am very proud of the economic success in our state and look forward to continuing to build on our important initiatives to make Wisconsin an even better place to live and work.

End of Session Update

Now that the 2017-18 legislative session has wrapped up, I've been stopping by our local board meetings to update folks on many of the legislative highlights impacting our local governments and schools. This week I had the pleasure of dropping by the Villages of Ashwaubenon and Howard to join their discussions. Are you interested in what the legislature has worked on this session? If so, mark you calendar because I'll be holding a public listening session on Friday, April 27 from 4:30PM-6:00PM at the Ashwaubenon Village Hall (2155 Holmgren Way). I hope to see you there!

Happy Easter!

Hard to believe it's already here, but I'm wishing you all a happy and healthy Easter holiday!