The Michigan High-Speed Internet Office would be created in statute under legislation considered this week. The House Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee heard testimony on legislation introduced by Representative Kevin Coleman (D-Westland), creating the new office within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.
Background:
Governor Gretchen Whitmer created the Office through an executive order in 2022. Often times governors will create offices during their tenure, however, the next administration may not choose to keep it. This bill would create the Office in statute, meaning future administrations would need to go through the legislative process in order to abolish it.
Responsibilities include:
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- Coordinate with other departments on issues concerning broadband and digital infrastructure.
- Facilitate collaboration between public and private entities.
- Identify best practices.
- Work to facilitate broadband expansion and adoption.
- Collect and analyze availability data.
Next steps:
HB 4066 remains before the House Energy, Communications, and Technology Committee for consideration.
