Much of the MN Broadband Coalition meeting is general meeting stuff – funding, budget and future. I won’t say much about that except to note that they are always open to new members. There were a few topics that I think are of greater interest to a wider audience; starting with a visit from Senator Tina Smith:

Here are some of the other topics:

• MN Statewide speed test: The Coalition is spearheading the effort to get folks to take the state speed test. I have covered this several times so I won’t duplicate. YOU can learn more here or take the speed test here. (And if you haven’t you should!)
• Legislative Update: The PowerPoint slide provides greater detail. In short, there were no added grants funds approved through the session or special sessions. Funding seems unlikely in future special sessions.
  
• Senator Smith was asked how to help policymakers prioritize broadband – she said that, no one will say broadband is a bad idea. It’s a matter of making it a priority. That’s why having a broadband czar would be helpful – one person to drive the cause helps. COVID19 has certainly helped shine a light as well.
• American Connection Project: The Broadband Coalition is part of the American Connection Project. (Again, I have written about this in the past, so I won’t duplicate efforts.)
  
• Broadband connects America: The Coalition is considering joining the Broadband Connects America group.

I suspect the Coalition will also send out notes from today and I will share them when they do.