Two bills that aim to grow the nanotechnology sector in Wisconsin were debated in the state Assembly Wednesday.
Nanotechnology is a field involving many different aspects of physics, mechanics, engineering and biology on the atomic level.
The two bills were heard in a public hearing in the Assembly Jobs and Economy Committee.
Assembly Bill 609 would increase funding for nanoscience teaching positions and equipment at UW-Eau Claire, UW-Stout and the Chippewa Valley Technical College.
The companion bill, AB 635, would create income and franchise tax credits for nanotechnology business expenses.
Scott Rausch, legislative aide to state Rep. John Murtha, R-Baldwin, who helped author the bills, said there was exhaustive support for the bills in the Assembly.
Rausch said the bills also gained support after they were mentioned in the State of the State"" address by Gov. Jim Doyle last week.
The bills would cost roughly $6.2 million, Rausch said.
