SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (WNAX ) – The Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation and the Internet of the Senate Commerce Committee held a hearing on rural broadband in Sioux Falls Thursday.

The hearing was Chaired by Senator John Thune.

Thune says he hears about the need for reliable broadband across rural parts of the state.

Thune says good high speed internet service can bring a wide range of opportunities.

Thune says a grant from the Federal Communications Commission of over $700 million over 10 years will help close the service gap.