Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle today announced $7.5 million in sales tax exemptions and tax credits for businesses to expand broadband access -- providing cell phone and high-speed Internet service for 350,000 Wisconsin citizens. The tax credits will help nine businesses invest more than $80 million to expand broadband access -- benefiting 261 communities in 63 counties across the state. Doyle announced the tax credits as part of the broad effort to grow the economy in Northern Wisconsin.

"To grow our entire state economy, we must work from region to region, and develop efforts tailored to local communities," Doyle said.  "For businesses, entrepreneurs and families to be successful, they need access to cell phone and high speed Internet access."

The Internet Equipment Tax Credit and Exemption Program was designed to encourage the extension of high-speed Internet service to parts of Wisconsin currently unserved or served by only one provider.  Nine businesses claiming sales-tax exemptions for the purchase of equipment used in the broadband market will receive an equivalent amount of Wisconsin income taxes in each of two succeeding years.

The nine businesses will invest more than $80 million to install equipment providing broadband service.   The projects will reach 261 communities in 63 counties. JB