MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- A state Web site intended to shame tax scofflaws into paying their debts has raised 25 million dollars, far exceeding the modest expectations of revenue officials who launched the site 1 1/2 years ago.

Meredith Helgerson is a spokeswoman for the state Revenue Department. She says officials expected the site would bring in just one to two million dollars a year.

The site lists thousands of people and businesses who owe at least $25,000 in back state taxes and are at least three months past their last appeal. People can get removed from the site by arranging to settle their debts.

The site is credited with bringing in 16 million dollars in its first year and an additional 9 million dollars through July 31st.

There are still more than 5,500 people and businesses listed on the site, owing a combined 461 million dollars in taxes and penalties.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)