Institute for Family Studies and Center for Christian Virtue recently released their annual Family Structure Index report. The report ranks individual states on the health of families by tracking how many prime-aged adults are married, the number of teens in intact homes, and fertility rates. Wisconsin ranked 21 with 65% of teens in intact homes, a 55% marriage rate among prime aged adults, and a 1.6 fertility rate. Pro-family advocates hope to see these numbers rise in the coming years.

Research continues to show that when families thrive, individuals, communities, and states succeed. Our state leaders need to promote and prioritize policies that strengthen and unite Wisconsin families. The health of our state is dependent on the health of the family.