Issue Position: Economy

Issue Position

When I am out speaking directly to Hoosiers, I find that no other issue matters if they do not have a job. Even those with jobs worry about how they are going to pay the bills and put food on the table. Many Hoosiers are just one paycheck away from being evicted or going hungry. We have to do a better job of connecting Hoosiers to jobs that are open. That means, among other things, improving our mass transit system to help get these Hoosiers to the best job to support their family.

More importantly, I want to ensure that we are securing high-paying jobs. It does not make any sense that our students are receiving an amazing education studying at some of the best colleges and universities in the country, then leaving Indiana after they graduate. Indiana needs to be doing all that it should to attract and retain this talent by creating a welcoming state, investing in developing new industries, and raising wages for all working Hoosiers. The minimum wage in Indiana is the Federally mandated $7.25 an hour. I would like to see the minimum wage increased to $15.00 an hour so that any person who works a full time job can live above the poverty line.

Here in SD 29, we've seen the closure of brick-and-mortar stores across, particularly Sam's Club on 86th Street in Pike Township. When this happens, what happens to these employees? We should be prepared and have the ability to re-train these employees to get them into new jobs.

Moreover, almost gone are the days of finding a high wage entry-level factory job. In today's world, most manufacturing operations have some sort of robotic component that requires specialized skills. Indiana is a hub for manufacturing and logistics companies. I want to work with these industries to continue to see them thrive in our State. I can also see that the information technology and services industry is making their home in Indiana and I want to ensure this industry has what it needs to thrive here as well.

Another focus is attracting top talent from outside of Indiana and once those folks get here we ought to be focusing on our arts and leisure amenities so they can have something to do after they get off work. Taking this holistic approach is necessary for the long-term and strategic approach of economic development in our State.

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