An Office of Broadband Development is established within the Department of Employment and Economic Development and shall remain in existence until the commissioner certifies that the state has met the broadband goals established in section 237.012.
The purpose of the office is to encourage, foster, develop, and improve broadband within the state in order to: drive job creation, promote innovation, and expand markets for Minnesota businesses; serve the ongoing and growing needs of Minnesota's education systems, health care system, public safety system, industries and businesses, governmental operations, and citizens; and improve accessibility for underserved communities and populations.
Beginning January 15, 2014, and each year thereafter, the Office of Broadband Development shall report to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over broadband policy and finance on the office's activities during the previous year.