The state Assembly passed its first two bills Tuesday, which aim to keep more jobs and taxpayer money in Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin First Act, which requires the government to purchase at least 20 percent of its goods and services from Wisconsin businesses, passed 77-22. The rate was amended from five percent to 20 percent during deliberation.
The American Jobs Act passed 69-30 and requires state agencies to purchase goods and services from companies that do not outsource jobs to other countries.
The two measures the Assembly passed today should go far in helping Wisconsin businesses,"" Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Madison, said in a statement.
The bills, introduced by Democrats, received criticism from Republican members claiming they lack accountability.
According to Rep. Robin Vos, R-Racine, the Wisconsin First Act has no enforcement and will not help small businesses in the state.
The bills are now headed to the state Senate.
