State Rep. Michele Hoitenga, of Manton, will take part in an informative workshop on high-speed broadband service for low-income northern Michigan students, families and seniors.

The event will take place Friday, Sept. 20 at 11 a.m. at the Cadillac Senior Center, located at 601 Chestnut St. in Cadillac. The workshop aims to inform residents of the tools and resources available to better equip them in an increasingly digital world.

“This program is a fantastic resource available to our area.” Hoitenga said. “It is imperative for the growth and success of Northern Michigan to have quick and reliable access to information. It’s something I continue to fight for through my work in Lansing as a state representative.”

In her current term representing the 102^nd District, which includes Wexford, Mecosta and parts of Osceola counties, Hoitenga has offered or supported several measures aimed at improving broadband capability and access for underserved areas in all corners of Michigan.

During the 2017-18 legislative term, Hoitenga co-sponsored legislation capping certain permitting costs for county right-of-way work. House Bill 5097, which eventually became Public Act 97 of 2018, streamlines future broadband expansion projects while eliminating unnecessary government red tape.

While chairing the House Communications and Technology Committee for two consecutive terms, Hoitenga has arranged hearings and discussed proposals on the need for a concrete broadband investment plan. Such plans included funding options, grant initiatives and a task force specifically charged with identifying areas in the state that are unserved or underserved.

For more information on the workshop, contact Rep. Hoitenga’s office by phone at (517) 373-1747 or by email at [email protected].