Wisconsin Considers Tax Relief for Disaster Displaced Residents
In an effort to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene and severe wildfires in California, Wisconsin lawmakers are proposing an appealing tax incentive for individuals relocating to the state. A new bill presented by Republican legislators aims to offer a $10,000 tax credit for the 2025 tax year to residents displaced from North Carolina and Los Angeles County.
This proposed tax relief is being spearheaded by state Rep. Cindi Duchow and state Sen. Dan Feyen, who have highlighted their initiative as a potential solution to address Wisconsin’s ongoing workforce shortages. They argue that this credit could attract skilled professionals and help bolster the state’s healthcare sector, which is reportedly facing a significant talent gap. A recent report from a task force set up by Democratic Governor Tony Evers indicated that by 2040, Wisconsin could be short nearly 19,000 registered nurses, with thousands more healthcare positions expected to be available in the near term.
In their memo addressed to fellow legislators, Duchow and Feyen discussed the enormous impact of Hurricane Helene and the wildfires, emphasizing the urgent need for support for individuals who have lost everything due to these disasters. They noted, “Many have been stripped of nearly all their possessions and will need to rebuild their lives. In light of this, we should encourage these skilled workers to relocate to Wisconsin.” Duchow reflected on the devastation she witnessed through photos, sparking her curiosity about where the affected individuals might seek refuge.
Duchow believes this initiative holds merit, as Wisconsin could provide a secure environment for those displaced by natural calamities, while simultaneously addressing the critical labor needs of local businesses. Nonetheless, the outlook for the bill remains uncertain.
Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has described the bill as an intriguing idea, suggesting that further investigation is warranted regarding its potential to enhance Wisconsin’s workforce. However, a response from the office of Senate Republican Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu has yet to be received as inquiries continue about the proposal’s viability.
Governor Evers’ office has also not provided immediate feedback concerning how the governor would proceed if the bill were to reach his desk. Given the persistent discord between Evers and GOP legislative leaders since he took office, it seems unlikely that he would endorse this tax credit.
Hurricane Helene inflicted extensive devastation in the southeastern United States last month, claiming over 230 lives, including more than 100 in North Carolina alone. Concurrently, wildfires in Los Angeles County left a trail of destruction, resulting in at least 29 fatalities and destroying numerous homes and businesses.
At this time, representatives for North Carolina’s Governor Josh Stein and California’s Governor Gavin Newsom have not responded to requests for comments regarding this proposed tax initiative in Wisconsin.
