Senator Franken sends a letter to Senate Budget Committee Chair Patty Murray with suggestions to craft a smart budget. He includes a vote for broadband, especially in rural areas…

In addition, America’s technology infrastructure needs to keep up with our changing economy.  Broadband access is absolutely essential to compete in the global marketplace.  Without access to high-speed Internet service, rural health care clinics can’t communicate with specialists, farmers can’t check market prices, and small businesses can’t sell their products online.  More than 226,000 Minnesota residents don’t have access to broadband service. The federal government should do whatever it can to expand broadband service to rural communities through programs such as the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service.  I request that the budget reflect strong investments that will help build broadband infrastructure and promote broadband adoption.