The signal a state sends out to potential employers is almost more important that its actions and Illinois isn’t sending the right message, according to the author of “How Money Walks.”

Illinois’ Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability asked in a recent report if a recession lies near for the Land of Lincoln because of slow growth. Meanwhile, Pew Charitable Trusts highlights how Illinoisans income has only grown half a percent since the beginning of the recession in 2007, slower growth than all states with the exception of Nevada. Author Travis Brown says that could be because of the actions or inactions from state lawmakers sending the wrong signals over the past few years.

Brown says the lack of action on economic issues may play a role in the message going out to businesses looking to expand or relocate.

In other State news, President Barack Obama’s visit to Springfield yesterday came with great fanfare.

It’s the first time a president has addressed state lawmakers since Jimmy Carter’s visit in 1978—a time when Secretary of State Jesse White was serving in the Illinois House.

Obama’s visit came both as a personal celebration, marking nine years since he announced his presidential bid in Springfield.