Tommy G. Thompson Center | |
Agency overview | |
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Formed | 1979 |
Preceding agencies |
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Dissolved | 2011 |
Superseding agencies | |
Jurisdiction | Wisconsin |
Headquarters | Tommy G. Thompson Center 201 W. Washington Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53707 |
Employees | 394.7 |
Annual budget | $387,061,200 (2007-2009) |
Agency executive |
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Website | http://commerce.wi.gov |
The Wisconsin Department of Commerce was a department in the executive branch of the Government of Wisconsin. It was established as the Wisconsin Department of Development in 1979, renamed to the Department of Commerce in 1995, and abolished in 2011. The department was responsible for implementing and overseeing the economic development programs for Wisconsin through consultation, technical assistance, and relocation assistance. It also administered the distribution of federal economic assistance programs to local governments and businesses, and acts as a go-between for businesses and other government agencies. The department also enforced laws regarding safety and sanitation in buildings, petroleum products, and petroleum tanks. It also gave housing assistance to low income families.
The Department of Commerce was administered by the Wisconsin Secretary of Commerce, who was appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Wisconsin Senate.