Stimulating the state economy has been weighing heavily on the minds of legislators in all 50 states since the United States' economy took a nosedive. What can we do to keep our states economically healthy and vibrant? Keeping Indiana's economy strong is something we've been working on for a long time. Specifically, legislators have been concerned about the amount of money the government spends outside our state. Why not spend those dollars in Indiana, providing jobs and opportunities for Hoosier families? Gov. Mitch Daniels addressed this concern in 2005 with his 2005 "Buy Indiana." At that time, for every public works dollar spent, only 40 cents went back to Indiana's economy. The "Buy Indiana" goal is that 90 cents of every public purchasing dollar is spent on goods and services provided by Indiana-based businesses employing Hoosiers. Think about the effect of adding that 50 percent of public works money to the Indiana economy: Hoosier families benefit as employment opportunities increase. The people and the government build a relationship of trust as they work closely together. Increased tax revenues can pay for things that benefit us all - schools, roads, police and fire protection, health care and other public services. "Buy Indiana" is not at 90 percent yet, but it's substantially higher than in 2005. Figures show that for the first half of 2008, Indiana was spending about 85 percent of its public purchasing money in-state. Choosing to "buy Indiana" is a decision that all of us can make for the good of our neighbors, friends and family. Just like the state will be careful to hire Hoosier workers, we can all consider where we get our necessities or home improvements, or where we choose to go for an evening out. Supporting Indiana's economy is not that difficult. There are some great, innovative companies based in Indiana, even right here in Evansville. Some of them have a world-wide reach, spreading the Hoosier ethic of hard work and good products. Many businesses, both large and small, keep the economy alive for Indiana and inspire me to "buy Indiana." Feel free to contact me with questions or concerns by e-mail at h78@in.gov, by calling toll-free 1-800-382-9841 or by writing me at the Statehouse, 200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204.
-30- |
