AR26: Resolution Text

LRB-4739/2

CMH:cjs

2015 - 2016 LEGISLATURE

2015 Assembly RESOLUTION 26

February 11, 2016 - Introduced by Representative Considine. Referred to Committee on Assembly Organization.

AR26,1,4 Relating to: requiring the Committee on Assembly Organization to work with the Executive Branch to identify, pursue, and secure existing and future streams of federal funds for broadband infrastructure and access on behalf of the State of Wisconsin.

AR26,1,7 Whereas, the State of Wisconsin was awarded $22,978,367 in federal broadband funding through the Broadband Technology Opportunities program from the U.S. Department of Commerce in March 2010; and

AR26,1,14 Whereas, this funding was intended to deploy broadband infrastructure in unserved or underserved areas; provide broadband access, awareness, training, equipment, and support to community anchor institutions (such as schools, libraries, and medical facilities), organizations and agencies serving vulnerable populations, or job-creating strategic facilities that are located in economic development areas; provide improved broadband access to public safety agencies; and stimulate demand for broadband, economic growth, and job creation; and

AR26,2,4 Whereas, the federal grant funding awarded, along with state matching funds, was expected to expand fiber optic networks in 82 schools (including eight technical colleges) and 385 library facilities and generate 150 full-time equivalent contract jobs associated with the grant; and

AR26,2,5 Whereas, the state rejected the federal broadband grant in February 2011; and

AR26,2,7 Whereas, the state has struggled to adequately fund public education, training programs, and transportation and infrastructure projects; now, therefore, be it

AR26,2,9 Resolved by the assembly, That the Wisconsin State Assembly regrets the rejection of federal broadband funding; and, be it further

AR26,2,12 Resolved, That the body hereby directs the Committee on Assembly Organization to work with the Executive Branch to identify, pursue, and secure existing and future streams of federal funds on behalf of the State of Wisconsin.

AR26,2,13 (End)