Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, encourages local officials and other broadband stakeholders to participate in a series of upcoming webinars and conference calls hosted by the Minnesota Office of Broadband Development.

According to a press release, the informational sessions will detail changes made to the program during the 2016 legislative session, and will provide key details about the application process.

Over the past two years, Bennett voted to approve historic investments in broadband funding totaling $45 million in funding over the next two years—more than double the amount approved in 2013-2014.

When combined with federal and private funds, Minnesota is expected to see well over $100 million in broadband investment in the next year alone.

“High-speed internet access is critical for our local businesses, schools, students and more,” Bennett said. “These public-private partnership grants will help close the connection gap for the unserved and underserved areas of our state. These webinars are important, as they will help local officials understand changes that have been made to the program, as well as walk through the application process and answer any questions.”

The conference calls will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, 8 to 10 a.m. June 30, 9 to 11 am. and 1 to 3 p.m. July 13.

Information presented will be the same across all four meetings. Interested parties must register to participate.

To register, send contact information including name, organization/community, address, email and phone number to David.J.Thaos@state.mn.us or call 651-259-7442 or contact  Bennett’s office for assistance with registration by calling 651-296-8216 or emailing rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn. Registration is required to obtain meeting access information.