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Broadband remains a key issue

Rural broadband remains a top priority for farm bureau members. 

Indiana Farm Bureau members discussed the need for better connectivity in rural communities with elected officials Wednesday. 

Indiana Senator Mike Braun says he understands the concerns regarding rural broadband.

“I live one mile outside the city limits in Japser in a place that we now have fiber optic strung throughout the town,” he says. “I”m on a landline that was really good eight or nine years ago, but now I can’t download anything or open up a PDF.”

Indiana Congressman Jim Baird says it’s critical for rural economic development.

“I think it’s extremely important for our children in schools and someone to have access to that for training programs- telehealth becomes a factor and so it’s extremely important,” he says. “I also recognize the significance of trying to get to that last mile.”

Indiana Farm Bureau members on the 18th annual Leader Trip met with senators Todd Young and Mike Braun on Wednesday. The group then split up based on Congressional districts to meet with their representatives in the House.