http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/wisc-leaving-s5.jpgEconomy, jobs, schools and wages have lagged while State debt grows and rural residents suffer with poorer schools and crumbling roads.

MADISON - On Tuesday afternoon, Gov. Scott Walker presented his 2017 State of the State Address.

The Governor presents a rosy picture of our state. But there are storm clouds on the horizon.

Wisconsin’s economy has lagged the rest of the country. Minnesota recovered lost jobs two full years before Wisconsin. And the country as a whole recovered jobs lost during the Recession a full year before Wisconsin. Wages in Wisconsin trail our neighboring states of Minnesota, Illinois and Michigan.

State debt remains among the highest it has been in history. Rural residents suffer with poorer schools and crumbling roads. Local governments struggle with fewer resources as they absorb more programs.

These are the facts lawmakers must face in the upcoming budget.