DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Even as lawmakers work through Gov. Terry Branstad’s latest proposal to expand broadband Internet in Iowa, officials and service providers say the effort will last for years and cost far more than the $5 million now under discussion. Supporters of Branstad’s legislation say it’s intended to bring attention and jumpstart work on a long-term broadband expansion the governor believes is vital to ensuring Iowa’s rural economy remains competitive as the nation relies more heavily on technology.

Under Branstad’s bill, Robert von Wolffradt, the state’s chief information officer, will oversee a grant program to help service providers with costs. Von Wolffradt says the $5 million program never was intended to pay for all Iowa’s broadband needs. Service providers say Branstad’s bill would help with an initiative that’s been ongoing for years.