Gov Tony Evers announces $100 million in broadband expansion grants

Gov. Tony Evers (D-WI) announced plans to use $100 million in federal stimulus funds to provide broadband expansion grants in the state. The grants are in addition to the nearly $200 million in broadband expansion Gov Evers has proposed in his 2021-23 biennial budget, which is now in the hands of the GOP-led budget committee. As governor, Evers has full discretion over the federal funds. He announced earlier plans to spend $200 million in stimulus funds on infrastructure, with a large portion of that going toward expanding broadband access. However, that was before the state was informed it would receive $700 million less in federal COVID-19 dollars than was originally projected, which could impact Evers’ use of those dollars. “Between our Badger Bounceback agenda investments and these federal funds, we’re taking a major step toward connecting everyone in our state,” Gov Evers said. “I’m glad to be able to direct this funding to the (Public Service Commission of Wisconsin) so the folks in need of high-speed internet can get connected as quickly as possible.”