ABC Newspapers (Anoka County) posts an editorial from the APG of East Central Minnesota Editorial Board about priorities for 2024 Minnesota Legislative session. Interesting to see that broadband is mention as a priority for Minnesota, although I have yet to hear anything about funding or other legislative actions related to broadband…

Doug Loon, chamber president, told our editors the state must prioritize productivity, regain its position as the Upper Midwest’s talent magnet and address the ongoing tight labor market.

The longterm economic success of the state should, according to Loon, focus on local communities with special attention to housing, broadband and child care. “Inclusion is a strength for Minnesota’s economic future,” he also urged.

Regarding wireline broadband service, with the need for upgrades in bandwidth for internet service, research shows that the metro is three times more likely to provide adequate service than Minnesota’s rural areas.

While it remains a challenge, Black employee labor force participation increased in Minnesota, now ranking third highest in the nation, in a Department of Economic Development study.

Citing the Minnesota Technology Association, “Minnesota ranks last in the country in foundational computer science offerings at public high schools.” In addition, the state is not graduating nearly enough post-secondary-degree holders to meet tech employers’ demand.

Internet service aside, state lawmakers beginning Feb. 12 will likely consider a bonding bill, tax cuts, further funding of existing programs and/or increasing the current budget reserve. Already many initiatives are seeking funding or bonding, from education, to child care programs, to transportation and water infrastructure in Greater Minnesota.

Also worth noting that … Minnesota ranks last in the country in foundational computer science offerings at public high schools. Federal funding is coming and the Office of Broadband Development is making a plan.