The internet is increasingly important to participation in many of the most basic economic, social, cultural and political activities of modern life. Without access to high speed internet connections – commonly referred to as broadband – many Americans are unable to share in the educational, health, economic development, social, cultural and political opportunities that the internet now offers. This problem is especially acute in rural areas that face challenges in broadband access and affordability. Increased access to broadband Internet providers is critical for improving education and increasing economic opportunities in rural Michigan.
MRC collaborates with ConnectMichigan to achieve that level of increased access and adoption. Connect Michigan, in partnership with the Michigan Public Service Commission, supports Michigan’s reinvention and technological transformation through innovation, job creation and entrepreneurship via the expansion of broadband technology and increased usage by Michigan residents. Connect Michigan is leading the effort to increase high-speed Internet access, adoption and use to diversify the economy and ensure Michigan’s competitiveness in the connected global economy of the twenty-first century. MRC sits on the Collaborative Broadband Committee, convened by ConnectMichigan, to provide guidance and solutions for Michigan’s evolving broadband challenges.
MRC will continue to emphasize:
- The provision of a reliable and affordable high-speed digital infrastructure necessary to promote education and entrepreneurship for all of rural Michigan while supporting agriculture and small business development;
- An increase in public access to broadband by expanding infrastructure in local libraries, public schools and other public facilities throughout rural Michigan; and
- Assistance with identifying areas for increased adoption of accessible broadband.
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