Abstract
EDUCAUSE comments strongly opposing an Omnibus Motion "whose Sections 23-26 would dismantle WiscNet, the statewide telecommunications network that provides low-cost internet service to colleges, universities, schools, libraries, and other education and research institutions across the state, and prevent the University of Wisconsin from undertaking activities similar to WiscNet in the future." Passing of the Omnibus would prohibit the University of Wisconsin from getting federal grant funds to deploy broadband networks to smaller communities for emergency medical services; would require that the university withdraw from Internet2 and CIC, through which flagship universities have collaborated for general good; and would prevent Wisconsin consumers from receiving educational, medical, and public safety services over broadband networks. The legislation was "introduced at the last minute and, as we understand it, has received no debate."