The Council of State Governments (CSG) hosts regional and national annual meetings that allow state legislators to meet and share ideas with one another. This past week, CSG Midwest held their annual conference, hosted in Indianapolis. Legislators from 11 states and four Canadian provinces met in our state capitol and discussed many issues ranging from the economy to education and how problems have been or could be solved. Concerning the economy, Indiana has taken great steps to ensure that we are in the best possible position in trying to battle our way out of the recession. Our state is leading the nation by creating a balanced budget without raising taxes, keeping funds in reserve and also creating jobs and giving a boost to Indiana businesses. In one of the last sessions at the conference, a committee of 11 legislators met and discussed a way to bring business to the region as a whole. The states included are: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. It was brought to their attention that in the 70's the southern conference of states put together a regional economic development plan and it is something I believe could benefit Indiana and the Midwest region, as well. A bill that I authored this year will help put Indiana in a better position to work with other Midwestern states. House Enrolled Act 1006 requires the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to work with the states bordering Indiana to develop strategies to boost the economy. The sharing of ideas and knowledge, no matter what line of work you are in, is almost always positive. We will continue to work to make Indiana a place where people enjoy living and working. Thank you for your continued support. -30- State Rep. Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville) |
