Senate Bill 31 would provide incentives to bring tech businesses, jobs to Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE — Wired Wisconsin is calling for the Senate to approve Senate Bill 31, a measure designed to increase the number of data centers and high-tech employment opportunities in the state.

The bill creates an income and franchise tax credit equal to the amount paid for energy efficient or environmentally friendly items used in the construction of “green data centers.” The credits are capped at $2 million during the next two years, and companies must meet certain qualifying requirements to receive them.

“This bill is a big step toward encouraging companies to put Wisconsin at the top of the list when considering data center startups or relocation of existing facilities to our state,” says Thad Nation, executive director of Wired Wisconsin. “It opens the door for needed economic development in Wisconsin and solid employment opportunities for Wisconsin residents.”

Senate Bill 31 was approved unanimously the Committee on Economic Development and Veterans and Military Affairs and is now headed to the Joint Committee on Finance before heading to the full Senate for approval.