Broadband development is important to Western Wisconsin’s economic growth, educational prospects, and overall quality of life. Legislators, like me, want to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Wisconsinites have access to dependable, high-speed internet. We do this by supporting solutions such as removing regulatory burdens that are preventing installation and by creating partnerships to speed up installation.

Since chairing the Bipartisan Task Force on Broadband Expansion in 2014, I am proud that I was able to get Wisconsin to begin investing in this important resource. Right now more than $2.8 billion has been allocated for broadband expansion in our state.

These grants have allowed for major connections to internet access in the 93^rd Assembly District that might not have otherwise have happened. This includes one of the awards that will install fiber internet to over 200 homes in the towns of El Paso, Hartland, and Salem. A $2 million award to hook up 240 homes in the Town of Rock Elm with fiber. And another award to the Town of Spring Brook for $800,000 to hook up over 150 homes.

Looking forward, we need to continue this investment, but we need to make sure we are using these dollars to the greatest advantage possible. That is why I am co-authoring Senate Bill 266. This bill will reduce the state tax burden on any future grants awarded, so that more funds can be used to connect houses and not be sent down to Madison.

Increasing infrastructure should also be paired with affordability. I am pleased to draw attention to the initiatives of several internet service providers who are providing customers discounts based on their income, housing, and veteran status. All residents will have easier access to broadband services because of these efforts' to lower monthly expenses. The Wisconsin Public Service Commission offers a map of discounts that are available at http://maps.psc.wi.gov/apps/DiscountPrograms/  and can be contacted via their hotline at 608-267-3595 on the internet and by phone.

The Affordable Connective Program was also created to help low-income households cover the costs of their internet access. Through this program, households can get up to a $30 monthly discount as well as one-time help to purchase a computer. You can learn more about this program at https://acpbenefit.org/

Since I began vigorously championing for broadband expansion, the state has taken steps to address it. One of my top legislative objectives will continue to be ensuring that the constituents of the 93rd Assembly District have access this important resource. Also, if you haven’t yet, please let me know about your thoughts regarding broadband in the budget by filling out my online survey at www.RepWarrenPetryk.com