Dear Neighbors,
Green grass. The rain has really started to bring spring colors into our neighborhood palettes. I see the fresh tilled soil and know the crappies are biting somewhere.
Broadband Initiative
As you know, I’ve been working to bring broadband internet to unserved and underserved parts of our state. Recently, I joined a number of my colleagues to unveil our innovative broadband proposal for this session. What makes our plan unique compared to the DFL Senate or the governor is our plan is, in fact, a plan. We’re not just throwing money at a problem hoping it fixes it. We have solutions and funding to help our state.
For example, our proposal includes $7 million in broadband and wifi for schools. Districts could receive a grant from the state and purchase mobile wifi hotspots students could check out when they need high-speed internet at home. Bringing broadband internet to our students is a top priority.
In total, we’ve proposed $47 million in new broadband investment. When combined with federal Connect America Funds, we’re looking at over $100 million. This is an important initiative for Minnesota, and I look forward to more discussion this session.
Education
The House Education bill passed Ways and Means this week and includes more equity funding for our rural schools. We continue to work on making sure the funding formula for maintenance is consistent statewide.
Please Contact Me
With more floor sessions and votes being taken, it’s important you contact me to share your opinion. I need your help in representing our area, and hope you’ll reach out if you have questions or suggestions.
Enjoy your weekend,
Ron