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SB 1040

Relating to: prioritizing certain farm projects under the broadband expansion grant program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Larson and 4 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill would prioritize broadband expansion grants for agricultural projects to improve farm connectivity and rural digital access in the state.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Bill Summary · SB 1040

Legislative bill overview

SB 1040 would modify Wisconsin's broadband expansion grant program to prioritize funding for farm-related broadband projects. The bill would create a preference system within the existing grant program to direct resources toward agricultural broadband infrastructure improvements.

Why is this important

Rural broadband access directly affects agricultural productivity, with farmers increasingly relying on precision agriculture technology, real-time market data, and remote equipment monitoring. Prioritizing farm broadband could reduce the digital divide between rural and urban areas while enhancing Wisconsin's agricultural competitiveness, though it may redirect funds from other broadband-underserved communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope limitations: Prioritizing farms may disadvantage other rural areas (villages, small towns, non-agricultural businesses) competing for limited grant dollars
  • Definition and implementation: Unclear how "farm projects" would be defined and whether this creates administrative complexity or excludes borderline cases
  • Cost-effectiveness: Question of whether targeted farm broadband is the most efficient use of public broadband expansion funds versus broader rural coverage strategies
  • Political viability: The bill's failure to pass suggests insufficient legislative support, possibly due to competing rural broadband priorities or budget constraints

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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