Wisconsin Dems introduce jobs legislation

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin Democrats have introduced a package of bills they say are designed to jump-start job creation in the state.

One of the bills would create grants for technical colleges that enroll students for specific projects, such as welding work or infrastructure repair. Another proposal would create the Wisconsin Agriculture Corps, which would connect young people with farm work. Still another would reinstate apprenticeship programs for state construction projects.

The bills have little chance of advancing. Republicans control the Senate and Assembly as well as the governor’s office. But Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca, a Kenosha Democrat, says he hopes the legislation will at least spark a discussion on meaningful job creation initiatives among Republicans.