Democrats in the Wisconsin state Senate have unveiled jobs legislation. The package, dubbed the Wisconsin C.O.R.E. Jobs Act, expands current tax credits and grant programs offered through the Department of Commerce, and adds initiatives to spur business development and retention, along with worker training. “We want to make sure that our existing businesses are going to expand, and thrive,” said State Senator Julie Lassa of Stevens Point.
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In addition, Lassa said the bill seeks to provide support for entrepreneurs and new business owners, as well as worker training. “We cover the gamut from creating new jobs and businesses, to retaining and building existing businesses, and . . . educating and training our work force,” said Lassa, adding that the package calls for an investment of $15 million in general purpose revenue and funding from existing programs. While the legislation is an initiative from Democrats, Lassa expects “good buy-in” from Republicans in both chambers of the legislature.