Accelerate Magazine January 2022

ALLIANCE DOUBLES DOWN ON ADVOCACY EFFORTS In 2021, the Alliance doubled down on advocacy efforts as the voice of the business in Waukesha County. In the midst of pandemic-related response and recovery, clear and consistent policies and laws were more important than ever. And still, even while the pandemic continues, the Alliance did not lose sight of the core areas of focus that have long defined our policy work, including the many issues that are tied to the critical workforce shortage. Alliance advocacy efforts in 2021 were organized into five key focus areas: economic development, workforce development, education, infrastructure and government efficiency and were led by our Policy Board and the work of three policy committees. Here are a few highlights of the Alliance’s 2021 work: Successfully lobbied in support of COVID liability protection for employers. Governor Evers signed 2021Wisconsin Act 4 on Feb. 25, 2021, which in part, created broad immunity to civil liability related to exposure of COVID-19 for Wisconsin companies. Advocated to reinstate the work search requirement for unemployment benefits, which was reinstated on May 23, 2021. Advocated on behalf of businesses to prevent taxes from being paid on PPP loans -- $450 million in tax relief toWisconsin businesses was signed into law by Governor Evers on Feb. 18, 2021 as Act 2, by adopting federal changes to align state tax law. Supported the successful enumeration of the I-94 East-West Corridor as part of the state budget. Lobbied for funding of a statewide talent attraction program -- $3 million for talent attraction was included in the state’s budget. Continued to drive workforce housing solutions inWaukesha County, including the support of several bills in the legislature aimed at positively impacting this issue. Supported the City of Waukesha’s use of excess funds from a profitable TIF to be used for workforce housing, marking the first time this program has been used inWaukesha County. Collaborated with several partners to secure a $1 million grant for a "User-Centered Mobility Solutions (UCMS): A NewVision to Connect Jobs and the Labor Force" pilot program in the Menomonee Falls area. Supported the City of Waukesha’s successful federal Community Project Funding Grant to help offset costs for the City’s water project. Ongoing participation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Equality of Opportunity Initiative. In the spirit of collaboration and leadership, the Alliance helped to launch a Statewide Talent Roundtable to share best practices and align efforts, including several speaking engagements around the state on workforce development solutions. In addition, the Alliance continues a longtime partnership withWisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce to advocate for pro- business policies at the state level. To learn more about the Alliance's priorities this year , view our 2022 Policy Agenda. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 14