The Badger Institute

Initiatives

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Corrections reform

Wisconsin cannot afford to stay the course on its corrections strategy. The cost of locking up criminals in the Badger State tops $1 billion a year. The Badger Institute has published reports and stories suggesting alternatives that will keep Wisconsin safe but rein in expenditures and help former inmates rejoin society.

Licensure reform

Professional licenses, which were once limited to those serving in health-related jobs, are now required for barbers, manicurists, landscape architects, massage therapists, auctioneers and scores of other professions. These government permission slips to work fence out people from the labor force, especially those striving to get a foothold on the lower rungs of the economic ladder. Licensing regulations are frequently arbitrary, even nonsensical. Licensure reform is necessary.

Project for 21st Century Federalism

The Project for 21st Century Federalism is the Badger Institute's multi-year investigation of the growth in federal grants and their effect on state and local governance. The project was launched in September 2016.

Tax reform

While there have been targeted improvements over the past few years, Wisconsin desperately needs a comprehensive tax reform plan that will more effectively promote statewide economic growth.

Transportation

Three major sources of revenue for funding Wisconsin's transportation needs — the state gas tax, the federal government and bonding — are problematic and unsustainable. We must look to other long-term solutions.

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