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Fast internet key for ag success

The agricultural industry is highly competitive, has global influence and is constantly evolving. To keep pace, Michigan’s agribusinesses and farm operations need access to the best tools and technology — including high-speed internet.

Unfortunately, rural areas in Michigan are hampered by a lack of access to high-speed internet. Senate Bill 637, sponsored by state Sen. Joe Hune (R-Fowlerville), would empower our state’s wireless providers to invest in small cell technology to strength Michigan’s wireless networks and bolster the agricultural industry.

Small cells are targeted devices that are lightweight and low-power, and can easily be installed to provide residents and businesses with additional network capacity and faster internet speeds. Small cells also could positively impact urban areas with surging capacity demands.

As president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association — a trade association representing more than 400 organizations spanning the agricultural supply chain — I believe SB 637 and small cell technology are steps in the right direction for strengthening Michigan’s wireless networks and helping position our agricultural industry for success in the future.

The legislation saw a strong, bipartisan vote in the state Senate and underwent an inclusive process to address concerns through a work group. Now it’s time to move SB 637 forward to help wireless providers meet the demand and needs of our rural communities, agribusinesses and farm operations.

Across the nation, states are working on legislation and passing bills with bipartisan support to streamline small cell technology — including Indiana, Iowa, Kansas and Minnesota. So far, 25 states have passed forward-looking legislation to accelerate the deployment of small cells. We cannot fall behind! SB 637 also is supported by all major wireless companies, including AT&T, Verizon, T Mobile and Sprint.

Small cell technology is a cornerstone for the advancement of 5G technology and has the power to truly bolster Michigan agriculture. But first, this legislation must pass!

Key features of SB 637 include:

∫ Streamlined application processes, granting wireless providers access to the public rights-of-way similar to the access provided to other communications providers.

∫ Creation of a statewide, standardized process for wireless providers to attach to existing structures or place new poles for small cell equipment.

∫ Reasonable, nondiscriminatory fee structures and elimination of arbitrary fees that discourage small cell deployment in our communities and restricting excessive government fees and delays.

SB 637 encourages wireless providers to invest in their networks and bring next-generation technology to Michigan. It also will support jobs for skilled workers, increase competition and access to voice and broadband services, and lay the groundwork for future wireless infrastructure.

We’re counting on policymakers in Lansing to move SB 637 forward to benefit rural internet users across the state, particularly in Michigan’s rural areas. This will help ensure that the state’s agricultural industry stays competitive in today’s global economy.

Jim Byrum is president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, a trade association of agri-businesses across Michigan that are committed to the development and prosperity of Michigan agriculture as a leader in state and national education, promotion and advocacy.

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