Summary of H.R. 3937: Wabeno Economic Development Act

Bill Overview

The Wabeno Economic Development Act (H.R. 3937) is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on June 11, 2025. The bill aims to promote economic growth and job creation in the Wabeno region of northern Wisconsin.

Key Provisions

The main components of the Wabeno Economic Development Act include:

1. Wabeno Economic Development Zone: The bill would establish the Wabeno Economic Development Zone, a designated area within Wabeno and surrounding communities. This zone would receive targeted federal investment and incentives to spur business development.

2. Tax Incentives: The legislation would provide tax credits and deductions for businesses that locate or expand operations within the Wabeno Economic Development Zone. This includes a 10% tax credit for capital investments and a 15% credit for hiring new employees.

3. Infrastructure Improvements: The bill allocates $75 million in federal funding over 5 years for upgrading roads, bridges, broadband internet, and other critical infrastructure in the Wabeno region. This is intended to make the area more attractive for businesses.

4. Workforce Development: The Act would provide $20 million in grants to local community colleges and job training programs to develop curricula and programs aligned with the needs of employers in the Wabeno Economic Development Zone.

Intended Impact

The Wabeno Economic Development Act is designed to spur economic growth and job creation in the Wabeno region, which has faced economic challenges and population decline in recent decades. Key intended impacts include:

• Attracting new businesses and encouraging expansion of existing companies in the Wabeno area
• Creating an estimated 2,500 new jobs in the region over 10 years
• Improving workforce skills and talent pipeline to support business needs
• Upgrading critical infrastructure to make Wabeno more competitive for investment

Current Status

The bill has been passed by the House of Representatives and is currently under consideration in the Senate, where it has been referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. If enacted, the provisions of the Wabeno Economic Development Act would take effect beginning in the 2026 fiscal year.