High speed internet

The state of Michigan is awarding $12.7 million in grants to companies to offset some of the cost and encourage them to expand broadband internet in rural areas of Michigan.

One of the grants is going to Marq6 Broadband to expand service in Schoolcraft and Delta counties in the U.P.

John Lindroth runs an insurance agency in Manistique, Michigan. His business is right in the city, so his internet access is fine. But he says many people outside the city really need high-speed internet.

The bill would have blocked local governments from using federal, state or local money to provide internet services. The only exception would have been if it's done through private-public partnerships.

The bill's sponsor, Rep. Michele Hoitenga, R-Manton, would not comment on why she is not moving the bill forward. She is the chair of the House Communications and Technology Committee, to which the bill had been referred.

Proposed legislation in Lansing would prevent local governments from using federal, state or local funds to invest in internet infrastructure unless the municipality already has a deal with a private company to provide the internet service.