With strong public opposition to hyperscale data centers, a group of Republican lawmakers are seeking co-sponsors for a bill that would eliminate Wisconsin’s tax exemptions for large data center projects, according to a report in the Wisconsin State Journal.
The sales and use tax exemptions, which were enacted as part of the 2023-25 state budget, are credited with the raft of large data center proposals.
The facilities have become increasingly controversial over concerns about higher utility rates, water usage, excessive noise and other environmental issues, leading to a significant drop in public approval.
The bill to eliminate the tax incentive was cosponsored by two Republicans who originally voted for it — Sen. André Jacque of New Franken and Shae Sortwell of Two Rivers.
Two other co-sponsors, Republican state Reps. Dean Kaufert of Neenah and Lindee Brill of Sheboygan Falls were not in the Legislature when the 2023-25 budget was passed and signed into law.
