Broadband Vendors File Tort Claims Against Idaho

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The two vendors for Idaho's failed broadband program are seeking more than $6 million in unpaid bills from the time its contract with the state was under legal scrutiny.

The Spokesman-Review newspaper in Spokane, Washington, reports that Education Networks of America and CenturyLink have filed tort claims against the state. They also ask for interest and attorney's fees. The state's Department of Administration continued receiving the broadband through last month, but stopped making payments last September because of the court proceedings.

A district court ruled the $60 million contract illegal earlier this year, sending school districts scrambling to negotiate their own contacts. The state has 90 days to respond until the two firms can file lawsuits.