SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Senator Tom Bakk (I-Cook) and Representative Rob Ecklund (DFL-International Falls) today introduced legislation they are authoring to improve access to affordable broadband. The legislation addresses recommendations from the Governor’s broadband task force.
“During the pandemic we have learned just how inadequate broadband service is in many parts of our state,” said Bakk. “Our students especially have struggled as they try and learn outside of the classroom. Our youngest learners deserve every opportunity possible to succeed. We may receive federal support in the future we but cannot afford to wait.”
“COVID-19 has accelerated our reliance on high-speed internet access, and while we’ve made progress in recent years, the needs in many rural areas remain unmet,” Rep. Ecklund said. “Reliable broadband access simply isn’t a luxury for students, businesses, and families. For Greater Minnesota communities to thrive, we need to expand access to this critical technology in every corner of the state.”
The legislation would invest $120 million in the state’s Border-to-Border Broadband Grant Program over the next two years, as recommended by the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband in December to meet connectivity and speed goals. Since 2014, lawmakers have invested over $104 million in the competitive grant program, leveraging private investments to expand access to over 49,900 homes and businesses.