Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, today called for the Legislature to continue on the course it followed last session, calling Republican gains at the ballot box a vote of confidence from the voters.
Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling, D-La Crosse, though called for a new course, saying the state is lagging behind others on job creation.
Both addressed the chamber today after members who won election in November took the oath.
Fitzgerald credited GOP efforts with record high employment in 2016, what he said was the best 12 months of private sector job growth in a decade and the lowest unemployment in 15 years.
He said this session will be dedicated to continuing improving Wisconsin’s business climate.
“This session we must renew our commitment on moving Wisconsin in the right direction,” Fitzgerald said.
Shilling, though, painted a different picture, saying the state has seen below average job growth compared to others and Wisconsin is dealing with an aging infrastructure.
“But we need a clearer path to invest in our future and ensure long-term economic success,” she said.
