State of the State addresses jobs, tax cuts

GREEN BAY - While Gov. Scott Walker didn't reveal many details, we are getting a better look at what's in store for the next year.

Walker says Wisconsin is headed in the right direction.

"Today, unlike the federal government and many of our neighboring states, we have a surplus, which will allow us to invest in our priorities," Walker said.

Even so, the governor says there's more work to be done. Once again, he says top priority is job creation. That he says starts with mining here in Wisconsin, such as the proposed mine near Lake Superior.

"We have the potential for a billion and a half dollar investment here in our state that could lead to as many as 3,000 construction-related jobs and 2,800 long-term jobs," Walker explained.

Several miners joined the governor at the podium. Walker called on the legislature to get something done.

"If any state can move forward with a way to streamline the process for safe and environmentally sound mining, shouldn't it be the Badger State?" Walker asked legislators during his address.

Lowering income taxes for the middle class is also on the governor's agenda.

It's a plan that received a warm welcome from state leaders.

"We want to continue to put more money in the hands of hard-working taxpayers and small business owners in our state," the governor said.

The governor also proposed more educational reforms, such as performance based incentives.

And when it comes to the skills gap, Walker says it's time to fix the statewide issue and get people the training they need to get back to work.

"I will work hard each and every day, so we can help people from across Wisconsin have the chance to have a job, and work hard to support themselves and their families for generations to come," Walker said as he wrapped-up his address.

How will the state pay for these proposals? The governor is expected to lay out his two-year budget plan next month.

• Click here to watch the full speech and the Democratic response
• Photos: State of the State address