Revenue from the state tax on telephone company property sank last year to its lowest level since the 1970s, a reflection of a shifting telecommunications landscape and a series of tax changes over time. Now, a recently adopted state law will almost eliminate the tax, which takes the place of local property taxes on telephone companies. Proponents say this approach makes sense in a world where traditional monopolies no longer hold sway, and levels the playing field now that the state has ended a related tax on other businesses.
State and local tax collections rose slowly in the state’s 2023 fiscal year while the growth in state residents’ income also slowed, leaving little change for Wisconsinites in their ability to pay their tax bills. Revenues from certain taxes – including those on corporate profits and vehicle ownership – dropped last year. With the tax burden near a historic low, its future course depends on factors such as inflation, a new state budget, and the trajectory of the national economy. Continue reading...
While consumers may be bingeing video more than ever in a time of social distancing, new data show cable television revenues actually falling in Wisconsin in the run-up to COVID-19. Last year, the state Legislature cut local fees paid by cable and telephone video providers in Wisconsin and approved some offsetting state aid to local governments. Yet these traditional firms continue to pay some fees that are not borne by the streaming video competitors making inroads into their markets. Continue reading...
November 13, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. | Program starts at 12:00 p.m. Italian Community Center | Milwaukee
Our 32nd Annual Salute to Local Government awards event will recognize the positive impact that public sector ingenuity and excellence have on taxpayers and communities throughout Wisconsin.
We are now accepting award nominations. Nominations are due August 30.
The Wisconsin Policy Forum is a statewide nonpartisan, independent policy research organization. We conduct impartial public policy research and analysis to drive informed debate and effective decision-making in the state of Wisconsin.
