Senate votes to increase Wis. enterprise zones (UPDATE)

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin state Senate has approved a measure that would increase the number of enterprise zones designed to foster business development and growth in targeted areas.

The bill passed by the Senate on Tuesday 26-7 also previously passed the Assembly on a bipartisan vote. It now heads to Republican Gov. Scott Walker, who supports it.

The proposal would increase the number of enterprise zones from 12 to 20. Businesses that locate or expand in enterprise zones are eligible for a range of tax breaks.

Three of the new zones would have to be in designated areas with less than 5,000 people. Two others would have to be in areas with between 5,000 and 30,000 people.

Tax breaks are offered for creating jobs, with greater benefits in economically distressed areas.