Access to high-speed internet is essential in today’s economy, but many Michigan residents still lack reliable service, particularly in rural areas. Politicians are spending billions of taxpayers' money to try and expand internet access. This event will explore the costs, results and future of broadband internet in Michigan.
Panelists will discuss what the state has accomplished so far, where efforts have fallen short, and how policies can be improved to ensure better outcomes. Topics include state and federal broadband funding, regulatory barriers, market competition, and how Michigan can promote innovation while avoiding inefficient spending and overregulation.
Whether you’re a policymaker, industry leader, educator, or resident concerned about internet access, this event will provide valuable insights into what’s working, what’s not and what needs to change to expand broadband access across Michigan.
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.
Program: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
The Louie Building
Freedom Hall (6th Floor)
123 W. Allegan St.
Lansing, MI 48933
Call our Events office at
This event is free, but RSVP is required by Aug. 29.
Register online
Dr. Theodore Bolema is a senior fellow in technology policy at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy where he has authored studies on broadband internet, telecom and antitrust issues. Previously, he was the founding director of the Institute for the Study of Economic Growth at Wichita State University and member of the Department of Economics at Wichita State University. Ted previously worked as an attorney in private practice, with the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and as a policy advisor to the Office of Policy, Planning and Analysis of the U.S. Department of Energy. He has taught at the George Mason University School of Law, Wayne State University, Michigan State University and Central Michigan University.
Michigan Rep. Jaime Greene serves as chair of the House Communications and Technology Committee. She represents the 65th House District, which covers portions of eastern Lapeer, western St. Clair, and northern Macomb counties. Rep. Greene served in the U.S. Navy and is a graduate of Henry Ford II High School. She holds a B.A. in Communications from Oakland University and an M.A. in Human Services from Liberty University.
Nathan Kark is the executive director of the Michigan Cable Telecommunications Association. He previously held a corporate position as the director of government affairs for one of Michigan’s largest cannabis companies. Nathan also formerly worked as the director of policy and legislative affairs for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. He holds a Juris Doctorate from the Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
Jarrett Skorup is the vice president for marketing and communications at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. He has held various roles within the communications department, including senior director of marketing and communications and director of the Frank Beckmann Center for Journalism at the Center, and has played a leadership role in marketing efforts, media strategy, and overseeing policy campaigns and objectives. He has worked at the Center since 2009.
Parking is solely your responsibility. We do not have access to discounts or free parking in downtown Lansing. There are a number of parking garages and metered parking throughout downtown.
Parking is available at meters located around the building and throughout downtown using the Passport Parking app. Using the app, you simply enter your "zone" code and link to a credit card. There is a 4 hour maximum at the meters. You cannot extend your parking pass time without moving to a different zone. Pay online or download the Passport Parking phone app www.passportparking.com
South Grand Ramp
201 S Grand Ave
Lansing, Ml 48933
Allegan Parking Ramp
corner of W Allegan St & S Capitol Ave
Lansing, Ml 48933
Capitol Public Parking
231 S Capitol Ave
Lansing, Ml 48933
Townsend Street Parking Ramp
221 Townsend St
Lansing, Ml 48933
