By Nan Baker

Throughout my time as your state representative, I have always focused on job creation. With the right legislation, Ohios government can revitalize our state economy and combat unemployment.

In the previous General Assembly, Ohios government accumulated a hefty budget deficit by relying on one-time resources instead of dealing with spending problems head-on.

As we work toward the passage of the state budget for fiscal years 2012 and 2013, I am supporting common-sense reforms for solving our financial crisis especially those efforts that will bring jobs to Ohio.

It has been clear for some time that we must become more proactive about creating an economic climate in Ohio conducive to business growth. In doing so, Ohio will become more attractive to industry, encouraging companies to relocate within our borders.

Job creation is inherently tied to the prosperity of our business sector, and I cannot stress enough the importance of enacting business-friendly legislation. Essentially, we need to signal that Ohio is once more open for business. As the economy grows, the job market will expand simultaneously.

These goals of job growth and economic revival are expressly addressed in the proposed state budget. The legislation contains provisions that clarify and strengthen the functioning of JobsOhio, the states new not-for-profit economic development corporation. In strengthening JobsOhio, the state budget will help to spur job growth statewide.

In addition to clarifying the role of JobsOhio, the budget will encourage Ohios youth to obtain higher education in-state.

It entices Ohio high school graduates who have left the state to return by granting in-state tuition rates for those who enroll in Ohio colleges or universities within 10 years of having graduated. With this stipulation, the budget will help to grow the pool of qualified applicants from which businesses can choose.

Bright, young Ohioans are needed to shape Ohios business sector. Furthermore, companies flock to states rich with highly educated prospective employees. By investing in our childrens future, we are also investing in the state economy.

With an $8 billion deficit looming, the state legislature needs to reallocate funds and reduce spending to fix this huge gap.

The proposed state budget for fiscal years 2013 and 2014 confronts these issues with smart and innovative solutions. Not only will it help to fix our current fiscal crisis, but it also provides the framework for significant job creation.

I am so pleased that Ohios proposed budget focuses on this important issue as I continue to say, Its all about jobs!

Similar Posts:

• A Coupla Rich Guys Sitting Around Talking
• 2011 MBA Job Outlook Bright
• Young adult education gets a boost
• University of Utah tops list for start-up businesses
• Layoffs, closures loom at UNC