There are signs that a recession this year could be more painful that first expected, but the impact in Wisconsin may be eased somewhat.
UW economist Don Nichols says Wisconsin has actually managed to avoid the financial crisis being felt by much of the nation because housing prices here did not get out of line. He says there have been very low mortgage delinquency rates in Madison, Milwaukee, and Green Bay.
Nichols says Wisconsin should also get some recession protections because of strong exports of manufactured goods, with a weak dollar overseas.