MADISON, WI (WTAQ) — The AARP of Wisconsin is calling on lawmakers in Madison to increase broadband access in rural areas as part of the state’s budget process.
AARP Wisconsin State Director Helen Marks-Dicks says that high-speed internet access is no longer something people can go without.
“During the pandemic it became very apparent that broadband access is no longer a luxury,” she told WTAQ. “It really is a necessity.”
It’s not just a necessity for families needing to connect at work or school, Marks-Dicks said, but for seniors who need the internet to schedule telehealth or vaccination appointments.
“What AARP is particularly emphasizing,” explained Marks-Dicks. “Is that the money should be used in these grants to actually get service to unserved and underserved areas.”
Such an expansion isn’t without its challenges, however.
“We have a strange topography here in Wisconsin which challenges the cell service also,” said Marks-Dicks. “So broadband going into the ground is very important for rural Wisconsin.”
Around 25% of rural Wisconsin homes lack access to affordable broadband service.
