Scott Walker in 2013 Governor's State of the State speeches

On Corporations: 300 rule changes from Small Business Regulatory Review

In a survey, we asked employers what we can do to help them create jobs in the upcoming year and the most common answer was decrease the amount of state regulations. And they gave us plenty of feedback on rules to review.

Tonight, I am pleased to release this report, which identifies over 300 rule modifications in 218 administrative code chapters. Making these changes will make it easier to do business in the state, while maintaining the safety and health of our citizens.

On Education: UW FlexOption: family-friendly flexible degree program

I can relate. During my senior year at Marquette University, I was offered a full-time job at the American Red Cross. I thought I would squeeze in a course here or there and finish things off in a year or two, but then Tonette and I got married. Then we had Matt. And then came Alex.

Next thing you know, you're putting all your extra time and money into your kids. The UW FlexOption will provide a less time-consuming, less costly way to finish off a degree. It will help prepare more people to fill the critical needs we have in the workforce.

On Environment: Streamline process for safe and environmentally sound mining

A mine would be a lifeline to people in northwestern Wisconsin, where the unemployment rate in Iron County is the 2nd highest in the state at nearly 12 percent. But the benefits will be felt all across Wisconsin.

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. It's no wonder that I've heard from people in places like Clinton & Wausau, Green Bay & Prairie du Chien, Superior & Chippewa Falls, all who want us to pass this bill. We need to get started on this project as soon as possible.

On Local Issues: Reopen Travel Wisconsin welcome centers

Tonight, I'm happy to report that there are now eight Travel Wisconsin Welcome Centers staffed with people that direct visitors to the many exciting attractions all across our great state. The Department of Tourism worked with the Department of Transportation and local chambers and visitors bureaus to form a tremendous partnership that protects state taxpayers in this effort.

With me tonight are a number of our dynamic Travel Wisconsin greeters, who provide a warm welcome to all of our visitors. It's no wonder tourism has grown to a $16 billion industry, supporting one in thirteen jobs in our state. Tourism is one of the many industries that benefit from a strong infrastructure system. We need to continue to invest in it to keep people working in Wisconsin.