MADISON – On Wednesday, the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access held its first meeting to kick off the third year of work to improve broadband access in Wisconsin. New and returning members of the Task Force met to reflect on past accomplishments and focus on this year’s goals.
“Expanding access to high-speed internet is essential for Wisconsin families, businesses, and communities—that’s why it’s important the Task Force on Broadband Access continues their good work,” said Gov. Evers. “Since 2019, we’ve made significant progress in getting Wisconsinites connected by funding projects that will provide new or improved broadband to over 387,000 homes and businesses across our state, and this Task Force’s work to bring people together to share their experiences and ideas will allow us to continue building on our work to ensure more Wisconsinites have access to reliable, high-speed Internet.”
Governor Evers created the Task Force on Broadband Access in July 2020 to advise the governor and state legislature on broadband actions, policies, and strategies to successfully expand high-speed Internet in Wisconsin. Since its inception, the Task Force has brought together a diverse group of members with relevant experience in this field. Through presentations and discussions, the Task Force developed well-informed recommendations to expand access, adoption, and affordability of high-speed internet. These recommendations were included in the Task Force’s 2021 Annual Report and the 2022 Annual Report.
Governor Evers has worked to expand broadband access in numerous ways. Since the governor took office in 2019, Wisconsin has disbursed or committed nearly $300 million towards expanding broadband, including $105 million in federal funding directed by the governor. State and federal funds allocated under Governor Evers for broadband grants have provided or will provide more than 387,000 homes and businesses access to new or improved services.
Public Service Commission Chairperson Rebecca Cameron Valcq welcomed new members of the Task Force during the meeting and thanked returning member, Chris Meyer from Marshfield Clinic Health System, as the new Task Force Chair. A full list of members can be found on the Task Force webpage.
“I’m grateful for the members of the Broadband Access Task Force who have already done so much to advance access to broadband and digital equity in our state,” added Chairperson Valcq. “It’s exciting to see the Task Force energized and eager for the continued work ahead.”
Support for the Task Force is provided by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) State Broadband Office. Members of the public can visit the PSC website to find a list of Task Force meetings and to learn how to submit public comments. All Task Force meetings are open to the public. The next report from the Task Force is due to the governor and state legislature on June 30, 2023.
The next open meeting for the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access is scheduled for Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 1 p.m.
