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Panel approves broadband expansion bill

DES MOINES (AP) – A House panel has approved a bill aimed at expanding broadband in Iowa, a step needed to advance one of Gov. Terry Branstad’s top legislation priorities this session.

Members of a commerce subcommittee approved the bill Wednesday. It now advances to a full committee for consideration.

The bill would establish a grant program with $5 million in its first year to assist service providers with the costs of expanding broadband, also known as high-speed Internet. Industry experts say establishing infrastructure for such a system could cost far more than $5 million.

Rep. Peter Cownie, a Republican from West Des Moines and chairman of the commerce committee, said there may be an amendment to the bill that would better specify criteria for awarding grant money.

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