Like many other events in the wake of COVID-19, this year’s State of State looked much different. For the first time in state history, Democratic Governor Tony Evers gave the annual address virtually, starting his speech with some lightheartedness on the situation. “Tonight’s speech will take a heckuva lot less time and since you’re watching […]
Internet Access and the Digital Divide
As with many other social and economic problems, the pandemic has only deepened the digital divide. “Unlike in other wealthy nations, the federal government has imposed no cost controls to make broadband more affordable,” writes Will Carless in a recent article for Reveal. “The result: massive inequality in one of the modern world’s most basic […]
COVID-19 relief bill drops funding for rural internet improvement
The state Senate passed a COVID-19 relief package today. Governor Evers signed the bill into law shortly after its approval on the Senate floor The fight for a COVID-19 relief bill pitted the governor’s office against state Republicans. Weeks ago, Governor Evers introduced two relief packages to the republican-held assembly, which were not taken up. […]
Frustrations and Hopes for Broadband in Rural Wisconsin
As part of the latest state budget, Governor Walker announced funding to expand rural broadband access, something he previously declined federal money for. Charlie Preusser, editor of the Crawford County Independent and Kickapoo Scout, talks about the status of internet in his area and the challenges some residents face.
Explaining the City of Madison’s Broadband Initiatives
The city of Madison is currently working on a pair of ambitious projects to offer high-speed internet access to its residents. One is a pilot project that would establish fiber connections in four low-income neighborhoods, while the other is a study that investigates the potential for a municipal broadband system.
