$400M budgeted for high-speed internet in Missouri

SEDALIA, Mo. -- Gov. Mike Parson on Thursday unveiled a plan to use $400 million in federal funding to boost access to high-speed internet.

Parson unveiled his plan for the federal American Rescue Plan relief funding while speaking to reporters at the Missouri State Fair.

"We expect this investment to increase broadband internet connectivity and access in every corner of the state for hundreds of thousands of Missourians," Parson said in a statement. "Quality internet supports learning, health care, business and agriculture in today's economy."

The Missouri Legislature still needs to approve the spending. Lawmakers return to work at the Capitol in January.

The governor's office says more than 147,000 Missouri households don't have access to high-speed internet. That equals about 400,000 residents, and most live in rural areas.