Wisconsin Department of Commerce
The Wisconsin Department of Commerce was a department in the executive branch of the Government of Wisconsin. It 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 State Senate. The department traced its roots to the Division of Industrial Development within the Office of the Governor, as established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1955. It was renamed the Division of Economic Development in 1959. This division changed superseding departments over the decades until it was promoted to department status as the Department of Business Development in 1971. It was renamed the Department of Development in 1979, and finally the Department of Commerce in 1995. As of July 1 , 2011, functions once performed by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce have been moved to the Department of Safety and Professional Services, other state agencies, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is the state’s lead economic development organization. Past Commerce Divisions. The following units are part of the Department of Commerce and report to the Secretary of Commerce: