Michigan governor signs legislation granting Billerud investment support for Escanaba Mill transformation
As previously announced, Michigan State legislatures have approved legislation to grant Billerud investment support of up to USD 200 million in funding to support Billerud’s investment plans. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the legislation, approving the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) appropriation of the funds. The transformation of the Escanaba Mill is planned to be the cornerstone of Billerud’s expansion into North America, one of the largest and growing markets in primary fiber premium cartonboard. The project is expected to support hundreds of high paying jobs and require a significant number of contractors during the construction period. This funding follows additional incentives recently approved by the State of Michigan Administrative Board, including approval of the Forest Products Processing Renaissance Zone. The zone exempts Billerud from paying almost all state and local property taxes at the Escanaba Mill.