Expansion of broadband internet access is up for consideration at the State Capitol. Senate Bill 34, a proposal by the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, passed out of a Senate committee with a do pass recommendation.
The bill would appropriate 100-million dollars to develop broadband internet access in the more rural parts of South Dakota.
The Commissioner of Economic Development Steve Westra says the bill is important for thousands of South Dakotans.
“As the commissioner of GOED, I can tell you that reliable internet is critical to economic and workforce development; but it’s also essential for education, agriculture, health care, and so much more.”
Since the bill has passed out of committee, it now goes to Joint Appropriations for further consideration.