The Bemidji Pioneer reports…

On the subject of funding, Klobuchar said she’s returning to Washington D.C. next week for the start of discussions on an infrastructure package. According to the White House’s website, President Joe Biden’s infrastructure plan calls for $100 billion toward public schools.

Klobuchar said she’s leading the broadband portion of the bill and noted its importance in how it relates to education. She also mentioned that she’s talked with President Biden directly about the need for broadband funding.

“He’s put it as a major part of the bill,” Klobuchar said. “Republicans in their counteroffer also have significant funding for broadband in theirs.”

“We’re really grateful for your support on broadband access,” Lutz said. “Beltrami County has excellent broadband, but that means nothing when so many families can’t afford access, so we’re working hard with our local carriers to provide access and we’ve made great gains there.”

Long Prairie Grey Eagle Public Schools Superintendent Jon Kringen also noted how important improved broadband is for his area.