Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB287

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/25/23
• Refer: 5/25/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Talent attraction and retention initiatives focusing on active duty military personnel transitioning out of the U.S. armed forces and veterans and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The bill's passage would result in significant changes in how Wisconsin approaches workforce development for veterans and military personnel. By focusing financial resources specifically on this group, the state aims to improve the integration of veterans into the local economy and workforce. The initiatives are intended to not only assist in attracting talent but also in retaining these individuals within the state, potentially leading to long-term economic benefits and a more skilled workforce.

Summary

Assembly Bill 287 is designed to enhance talent attraction and retention initiatives specifically aimed at active duty military personnel transitioning out of the U.S. armed forces and veterans. It mandates the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) to allocate $5,000,000 towards various initiatives that promote this goal. The initiatives are expected to include digital marketing strategies, direct outreach efforts to target military personnel, as well as providing grants to local and regional economic development organizations that support these efforts.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to generate positive outcomes for transitioning military personnel and veterans, there may be points of contention regarding the allocation of resources. Critics could argue that the focus on military personnel might divert funding from other critical areas of workforce development. Additionally, the effectiveness of the initiatives will be closely monitored, as WEDC is required to report on the success of each initiative undertaken, which could subject the bill to scrutiny regarding implementation success and actual impacts on the community.