Community Broadband

Minnesota Clears Path for Community-Owned Broadband

Minnesota's repeal of laws blocking municipal broadband ensures local governments can participate in the upcoming $42.45 billion BEAD grant program.

Jericho Casper

May 24, 2024 — 2 min read

Photo of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) used with permission.

WASHINGTON, May 24, 2024 – Minnesota state lawmakers repealed two state laws on Wednesday, effectively removing barriers preventing cities and towns from providing municipal broadband services.

The legislative change reduces the number of states with laws preempting local governments from building their own broadband networks to 16. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 19 states held laws preventing community broadband networks.

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Community Broadband Minnesota tim walz zach stephenson municipal broadband BEAD Christopher Mitchell Gigi Sohn Community Broadband Network Initiative ILSR American Association for Public Broadband AAPB