The Pine Journal posts an editorial from Minnesota State Representative Mike Sundin, District 11A, including his views on broadband funding…

I am disappointed that we still haven’t provided the necessary funds to improve basic infrastructure and economic development in communities that need it. Given the state’s projected $1.2 billion surplus, it shouldn’t be so difficult to reach agreement on bread and butter infrastructure improvements that impact every resident of our district.

For example, we know that many rural residents and businesses still need access to good broadband internet connections. The DFL invested $20 million in broadband grants in 2014, and we proposed another $50 million last year, but the GOP underfunded broadband grants by only approving $10 million at the last minute, after being harassed by greater Minnesota newspaper editors for providing zero investments in broadband infrastructure. This is just one example of the ridiculously inadequate proposals that have been put forward by the GOP and Speaker Daudt to address our aging infrastructure.

It’s time to pony up and provide greater Minnesota communities with the support they need to provide basic services and do their jobs. If we can afford to do anything, we can afford to make sure rural communities can provide clean water, quality education, public safety, and excellent healthcare.