b'Prioritizing Growth in Illinoisforefront of talent development. Thefor workers to access well-payingfostering a balanced growth strategy most effective measurement of thesejobs, for families to thrive, and forfor our stateone that supports job investments is labor participation, ascommunities to build a better future.creators, employees, large and small reflected in our unemployment rate,We have everything it takes to be abusinesses, and all parts of Illinois which currently ranks 47th out of 50leader in the nations economy, butequally. Join us on this journey. Lets states. we must prioritize growth in ourwork together to ensure that Illinois Infrastructure is another keypolicies, attitudes, and investments. thrives.area where we must invest to pro- Now is the time for Illinois to fo-mote growth. Our roads, bridges,cus on what truly matters: growth in and public transportation systemsjobs, businesses, and opportunities. require modernization to meet theThe Illinois Chamber is committed to demands of a growing economy. With a burgeoning manufacturing and tech sector, energy is a crucial component of our growth strategy. However, we need to adopt a prag-matic, supply-side-driven transition plan toward a long-term renewable energy future. Currently, we have focused on long-term goals without a clear pathway that leverages theIllinois is experiencing states strong energy market, partic-ularly through our coal and naturalnumerous positive developments gas infrastructure. throughout the state.We also need to address our fiscal challenges directly. A balanced budget, along with manageable levels of appropriations, is essential for in-stilling confidence in businesses and investors. However, its not just about numbers; its about fostering a culture of risk-taking, entrepreneurship, and innovation. We need to celebrate those who strive to build something new, create jobs, and transform industries. Illinois has always been a state of dreamers and doers, but we must re-energize that spirit of inno-vation.Ultimately, growth is about opportunitybalanced opportunities for small business owners to expand, MARCH 20253'