Foxconn Bill Clears Wisconsin Assembly With Backing of Only 3 Democrats

Legislation cleared the Assembly Thursday 59-30 authorizing Wisconsin to pay Foxconn up to $3 billion in cash incentives to build an LCD display fab (see 1708040056). The only three Democrats joining Republicans to back the measure -- Minority Leader Peter Barca and Reps. Cory Mason and Tod Ohnstad -- represent districts in southeast Wisconsin where Foxconn likely would build. Rep. Adam Jarchow (R) of the 28th district in Balsam Lake in northwest Wisconsin, was the only Republican voting no. The Senate and Joint Finance Committee, composed of members from chambers, must approve the legislation, but Republicans hold majorities. The legislation is based on a memorandum of understanding signed July 27 by CEO Terry Gou and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) that self-imposed a Sept. 30 deadline for bill enactement.