MILWAUKEE – With national unemployment on the rise, a sluggish economic outlook, and prominent manufacturing facilities closing in Wisconsin, now more than ever we need economic policies that don’t hurt business. That’s the message that Americans for Prosperity is spreading throughout the state through grassroots programs and education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Wisconsin ranked 39th in economic growth and 45th in job growth from April 2007 through April 2008.

“It seems to me to be the same old song, different verse,” said AFP Wisconsin Director Mark Block. “The economic outlook continues to decline under policies enacted by our Governor and members of the legislature. It’s time for Wisconsinites to rally against these harmful policies and put Wisconsin back where it belongs – leading the way for economic growth.”

• According to the study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Wisconsin’s overall economy expanded by only 1 percent, or about half the rate of the nation as a whole. Many prominent members of the business community have voiced concerns regarding Wisconsin’s sluggish growth, suggesting that Wisconsin do a better job of attracting educated workers from both inside and outside the state and retaining them.

• Research conducted by Minnesota 2020, a state-based think tank, concludes Wisconsin ranks 35th in employment growth. That same study shows Wisconsin as 29th in average annual pay and 38th in unemployment rate in 2007. According to the same study, on a twelve month basis the Wisconsin unemployment rate is worse than the national average for the first time in 20 years.

“It just doesn’t seem like lawmakers in Madison get it,” said Block. “We need to create an economic climate in Wisconsin that encourages businesses to move to Wisconsin, stay here, expand here and contribute to the economic growth and well-being of this state. The road map for economic prosperity is clear. Madison lawmakers either need to follow the signs, or pull over and let someone else drive."