[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 12, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E425]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           BROADBAND IS CRUCIAL FOR MINNESOTA AND THE COUNTRY

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TOM EMMER

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 12, 2016

  Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
Blandin Foundation for their dedication to strengthening rural 
communities in Minnesota. One such way they are making a difference is 
through various programs, including their outstanding program which 
aims to increase access to high-speed broadband internet. I am happy to 
support the Minnesota Broadband Coalition's vision: ``Everyone in 
Minnesota will be able to use convenient, affordable world-class 
broadband networks that enable us to survive and thrive in our 
communities and across the globe.''
  Like the Blandin Foundation, I too believe that increasing and 
expanding broadband in Minnesota is of the utmost importance. Back in 
February, I had the opportunity to voice my support for broadband 
expansion at the Minnesota Broadband Conference.
  Over the past several decades we have seen the rise of internet and 
technology due to its ability to improve people's lives. As a result of 
internet access, more businesses are emerging, new jobs are being 
created, and more educational opportunities abound.
  However, many rural communities in Minnesota do not have consistent 
access to broadband, preventing their communities from thriving and 
keeping them at a competitive disadvantage. I commend the Blandin 
Foundation for their efforts to ensure that all communities have the 
opportunity to prosper and grow.

                          ____________________