Motion: Fund the next step for IEN

Rep. Shirley Ringo, D-Moscow, has made the motion for the Department of Administration’s budget for next year, for a $6.9 million in state general funds and $60 million in total funds. It includes spending authority for the $3 million in Albertson Foundation donations for the next stage of the Idaho Education Network, a statewide broadband network linking Idaho schools. “There has been a great deal of discussion regarding this budget,” Ringo said. She noted that many lawmakers are concerned about local Internet service providers and their lack of a role in the project. However, she said, “We do appreciate the support that we have from the Albertson Foundation.”