Audio File to Radio Address.

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers on Aug 22nd, delivered his weekly radio address highlighting the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Access’ fourth annual report. Building upon findings from the previous task force reports, the 2024 report provides an update on achievements under Gov. Evers and the Evers Administration to expand access, adoption, and affordability of high-speed internet across Wisconsin. The fourth annual report makes recommendations for the state to efficiently deploy federal broadband funds while sustaining and extending this progress through ongoing state investment and initiatives to advance digital equity.

Hey there, Wisconsin! Governor Tony Evers here. 

Having access to high-speed, affordable internet is critical to nearly everything we do these days—from accessing healthcare to going to school and working remotely to connecting with loved ones and friends.

And we’re proud that no administration in state history has done more to expand access to high-speed internet than we have. 

Since 2019, we’ve allocated more than $340 million in state and federal funds to expand high-speed internet, including the largest state investment in state history to help more than 410,000 homes and businesses have new or improved service. 

We’re going to keep working to close that digital divide, and my Task Force on Broadband Access recently released their 2024 report with recommendations of how to do just that. 

We need continued state investment to ensure high-speed, long-term, reliable internet service for all. 

In my last budget, I proposed the largest state investment in broadband ever in our history with a $750 million investment. Unfortunately, the Republican majority on the Joint Finance Committee threw that out the door and provided zero new funding for broadband expansion.

The Task Force recommends we get to work to expand workforce training, improve permitting and locating processes, and improve coordination with Tribal Nations and local communities to prepare for an efficient, transparent, and successful rollout of federal broadband investments. 

With this roadmap ahead of us, we’re going to continue working to expand access to affordable, high-speed internet, ensuring every Wisconsinite has the 21st-century infrastructure they need and deserve. 

Thank you.