Letter: Job creation is job No. 1

To the Editor:

Following the challenging economy and historic job losses that have occurred in recent years, the focus of Wisconsin’s legislative majorities this session has been on encouraging job creation and getting people back to work.

While significant reforms and initiatives were acted on during two special sessions on jobs, legislative proposals are continuing to be developed and passed with the goal of helping grow our economy.

We are seeing positive results from these efforts, as Wisconsin’s unemployment rate has dropped to the lowest it has been since December 2008. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of Wisconsinites working has increased by over 21,000 since December 2010.

The roles of small businesses and the private sector as job creators are critical in putting Wisconsin citizens back to work. As the growth of jobs in the private sector is vital for a growing economy, legislative action can help improve the business climate to be more conducive to job growth and economic development.

State policies can help encourage expansion of existing businesses and draw job creators to state. As the session continues, we will keep working to improve the economy.

Sheila Harsdorf

River Falls

Sheila Harsdorf, a Republican, represents Wisconsin Senate District 10.

Tags: opinion, letters