This is an important step in outpacing neighboring states, and for embracing an innovative, entrepreneurial culture in Illinois.

The Illinois Chamber of Commerce seems to hold contradictory opinions when it comes to economic opportunity.

Since the January 2011 tax hikes, Illinois’ recovery slowed down, the rest of the Midwest sped up and the rest of the U.S. significantly accelerated. The Great Lakes states performed in lockstep with how well they fostered the free-enterprise system.

For Illinois’ downstate communities that have felt the pain of out-migration and need to revitalize their industrial base, a local Right-to-Work ordinance can be their first step to a comeback.

An encouraging December helped pull the Land of Lincoln out of last place in the Midwest for 2014 jobs growth.