MN SF2056

Establishes a grant and loan program under the Department of Employment and Economic Development to expand broadband service in unserved and underserved areas of Minnesota.

Eligible applicants include incorporated businesses, partnerships, political subdivisions, Indian tribes, nonprofits, cooperatives, and limited liability corporations organized for broadband expansion.

Grants and loans may fund acquisition and installation of middle-mile and last-mile broadband infrastructure capable of supporting speeds of at least 100 megabits per second download and 100 megabits per second upload.

Prioritizes funding for unserved areas, with optional priority consideration for underserved areas, projects benefiting community institutions, telemedicine support, economically distressed areas, and projects with strong local support and additional funding sources.

Appropriates $100,000,000 from the general fund to the commissioner for grants, loans, and administration, with funds remaining available until expended and not canceling to the general fund.