(DES MOINES) -- On Wednesday, April 21, the Iowa House voted to pass the Administration and Regulation budget bill, containing $100 million for broadband internet expansion. 

Iowa House Republicans have made increasing access to high-speed, broadband internet a major priority of the 2021 Legislative Session. 

Representative John Landon (R-Ankeny) led the budget bill through the Iowa House.

"This budget meets the needs to ensure a state government that works for the people of Iowa," said Landon. "It also addresses additional needs of Iowans, particularly in the area of broadband. With $100 million allocated for broadband, we can work to bring connectivity to Iowa's broadband deserts, and increase speeds across the state."

Speaker Pat Grassley (R-New Hartford) praised the legislation. 

“With this significant investment into broadband, Iowa House Republicans are delivering on another campaign promise made to constituents,” said Grassley. “This pandemic has accentuated the need to connect every Iowan to broadband to give them the ability to work from home, access telehealth services, use precision ag technology, and more."

The Administration and Regulation budget bill passed the Iowa House 55-37.