Posted: 04.14.2010

 The state Assembly passesd two bills that should help grow Wisconsin's $59 billion agriculture economy - and at the same time created a new program to connect consumers directly to those growers.

On Tuesday, AB 757, the Food Processing Modernization Tax Credit, passed on a bi-partisan 92-5 vote, providing provides a refundable food processing and distribution tax credit equal to 10% of expansion costs for Wisconsin food processors and distributors.

Roger Jacob, Del Monte Foods’ Operations Manager said the food processing industry is very competitive, and to stay ahead, companies like Del Monte continually invest in new equipment that increases productivity, maintains high quality, and enhances food safety.  He also said the new tax credit makes it easier for Wisconsin food processors to invest in cutting-edge technologies, expand operations, and ultimately, to compete in a global market.

 Del Monte Foods employs nearly 1250 workers at its three Wisconsin processing facilities and contracts with 114 Wisconsin farmers.

The Assembly also extended a valueable tax incentive for the states dairy farmers.

AB 756, the Dairy Farm Modernization Tax Credit, was also approved by a vote of 98-0 renewing a 10% incentive for farmers who make significant improvements to their operations, including new fencing or waste management systems. Since 2004, the Wisconsin dairy farm tax credit has resulted in more than $50 million worth of tax credits, generating more than $500 million in private on-farm investments, part of a total of $1 billion of farm level facility investments in Wisconsin dairy farms in the just last five years.

Assembly Ag Chair, Amy Sue Vruwink said she was also happy to see the creation of a NEW "Farm to School" program to connect consumers to their food.

The new program establishes a statewide Farm to School Advisory Council within the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection and would also create a statewide Farm to School coordinator and grant program to assist in the advancement of the program.

« back to news articles