Madison, Wisconsin (July 6, 2023) – The Wisconsin Grocers Association (WGA) recognizes the work of the legislature and Governor Evers on a state budget that provides funding for tax policy modernization, infrastructure investment, and housing opportunity for the state of Wisconsin.
“This budget helps Wisconsin’s grocers and all retailers in a tangible way, both now and in the foreseeable future,” said Mike Semmann, WGA Vice President Government Affairs. “Retail food stores of every shape and size are facing increasing complexity in the marketplace. The budget dedicates funding to modernize select tax policies and provides investment in infrastructure which will sustain commercial confidence.”
WGA appreciates the bipartisan leadership of Governor Evers, Republican Co-Chairs of the Joint Finance Committee, and individual lawmakers who worked diligently on workforce issues and to minimize inflationary pressures in the Wisconsin’s economy. Several key areas of the budget stood out for Wisconsin grocers and convenience stores.
Funding for the Personal Property Tax Repeal: The elimination of this tax as old as statehood, is a signal to businesses small and large that the legislature and Governor Evers are taking steps to clarify and streamline Wisconsin’s tax code to reflect a more modern way of doing business.
Sales Tax Allowance (Discount): The budget recognized, for the first time in 40 years, the increased costs retailers are facing related to a business owner’s responsibility to act as the sales tax agent for the state of Wisconsin and provided relief to more than 100,000 retail businesses.
Transportation/Infrastructure: The increase in transportation funding will help amplify private investment in retail stores and warehouses to keep a critical component of the supply chain operable.
Housing: The $525 million included for workforce housing will enhance economic development in communities all over the state through household formation, which has a positive correlation to the grocery industry.
