STURGIS, S.D. (KBHB) – South Dakota Senator John Thune was in Sturgis earlier this week, meeting with representatives from the broadband industry, to discuss improving technology in rural areas.

Thune says South Dakota is still struggling when it comes to expanding broadband service.

He says some areas of South Dakota are still operating under 3G – when they should be 4G. He says there is new technology called 5G coming, and he wants South Dakota to be able to receive it…

For example, Thune says there would be a great benefit to precision agriculture, education and even health care.

But, Thune says there are some barriers, and they are looking for ways to get around them…

Along with the new technology, however, is the issue of privacy, and he says that’s a challenge…

Thune says the future of broadband will have a big impact on economic development to South Dakota.

Thune is visiting GenPro Energy Solutions as part of his visit to the Sturgis area this afternoon and will speak to Sturgis Brown High School students as well.