Wisconsin Ag Connection - WBIA Urges Legislature to Support State's Bio Industry

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WBIA Urges Legislature to Support State's Bio Industry
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 05/23/2007

The Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance is asking state lawmakers to maintain funding designated for the development of the Bio Industry in Wisconsin. WBIA Chairman Alex Samardzich says the economic return on initial investment for Bio Industry-related projects is truly remarkable and has far more benefits than most realize.

"When it comes to creating new jobs, expanding markets for agricultural products, and developing rural communities, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better use of state dollars than investment in this emerging industry," Samardzich says.

In January, Governor Doyle committed $30 million in the state budget to the Bio Industry during his State of the State Address. The funds are to be used for grants and loans to companies that are developing new bio based technologies in Wisconsin.

"Wisconsin has a chance to become one of the worldwide leaders in the development of bio fuels, bio power, and bio products," said WBIA Director Joshua Morby. "This industry has the potential to not only grow Wisconsin's economy, but increase our energy security and help reduce global warming. Funding for the Bio Industry from the State of Wisconsin is essential if we're going to continue to remain a leader is this emerging industry."

The Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance is a diverse group of businesses, environmental groups, and statewide and local organizations that have come together to build both public and legislative awareness of the Bio Industry in Wisconsin.

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