FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Rep. Rob Summerfield
August 25th, 2021 (608) 266-1194
Evers Fails to Uphold Broadband Promise
GOP Shown to be Correct on Policy
MADISON – Rep. Rob Summerfield (R-Bloomer) issued the following statements after the Public Service Commission (PSC) released the applications it received for the special round of broadband expansion grants Governor Evers created through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA):
“Earlier this year, the Republican-led Legislature sent the governor a bill to use $500 million in ARPA funds for broadband expansion. This figure was based on Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimates and industry demand. Yet, Governor Evers vetoed that legislation and chose to allocate only $100 million instead.”
“Recent numbers from the PSC show that the governor was way off in his estimations. In total, the PSC received 241 applications requesting more than $438 million – revealing the governor’s commitment was $300 million short of industry demand. He declared 2021 the “Year of Broadband” but failed to deliver on this promise by shortchanging everyday Wisconsinites of fast, reliable internet. The GOP was correct in its policy and continues to prioritize the needs of the people of Wisconsin.”
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The 67th Assembly District includes portions of Dunn and Chippewa counties.