A new audit shows slightly more than half of the schools surveyed aren't using the equipment purchased through Idaho's pricey broadband contract and nearly 6 percent of the videoconferencing equipment can't be located.
Legislative auditors told budget writers Thursday that use of the Idaho Education Network, a program that provides broadband access to Idaho public schools, has declined since it first began in 2012.
State Sen. Dean Cameron says the report raises concerns for the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee as it considers funding the program for another year.
A district court voided the $60 million broadband contract in November after finding the state violated its own procurement laws. Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has urged state officials to rebid the contract but the future of the network is unknown.
