ST. PAUL, MN - Lt. Governor Tina Smith released the following statement today concerning House Republicans' proposal to eliminate funding for the Minnesota Broadband Infrastructure Grant Fund.

"I am disappointed in House Republicans' proposal to eliminate funding for greater Minnesota broadband infrastructure.

"In its first year alone, this program has partnered with private providers and local governments to expand broadband access to thousands of households, 150 businesses, and 83 libraries, town halls, schools, and other community institutions in greater Minnesota. Access to high-speed, affordable broadband Internet is not just nice; it is necessary.

"If we want economic prosperity to be broadly shared in every corner of our state, we need to give our communities and businesses the tools they need to succeed. I urge House Republican lawmakers to reconsider these cuts, and I am committed to working with them to make progress on this critical economic issue."