Rick King Named Chair of Minnesota Ultra High-Speed Broadband Task Force

EAGAN, Minn., July 3, 2008 — Rick King, executive vice president and chief operations officer of Thomson Reuters North American Legal, has been appointed chairman of the State of Minnesota Ultra High-Speed Broadband Task Force by Governor Tim Pawlenty. King is one of 20 appointments to the 26-member task force, and is the representative of metropolitan area business citizens at-large.

King has been an advocate for expanded broadband, and as an executive at one of the state's largest technology employers, understands that broadband is essential infrastructure if Minnesota is to continue to compete in an ever-changing global economy.

"Ultra high-speed broadband gives us a competitive edge to build on our technology leadership position and attract great companies and high-paying jobs to our state," said King. "I am honored to be appointed by the Governor. I look forward to joining with other Task Force members to create a plan for Minnesota's new world-class technology infrastructure – one that can support economic and job growth in today's competitive global marketplace."

"The Task Force's broad membership includes individuals from both metro and rural areas, education and business communities, along with telecomm providers and government officials. This diverse group ensures a strong partnership between the community, the private sector and the public sector as we examine the best approaches to broadband issues. This is going to be a great opportunity to learn from each other," King continued.

The Task Force will submit a report containing recommendations by Nov. 1, 2009, to the Governor along with key officials in both the Senate and House committees who have primary jurisdiction over telecommunications policy. The report may recommend possible legislation calling for a comprehensive statewide plan designed to achieve a state ultra high-speed broadband goal.

The Task Force will operate until March 2010.

Thomson Reuters is the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare and media markets, powered by the world’s most trusted news organization. With headquarters in New York and major operations in London and Eagan, Minn., Thomson Reuters employs more than 50,000 people in 93 countries. Thomson Reuters shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, Toronto Stock Exchange, London Stock Exchange and Nasdaq. For more information, go to www.thomsonreuters.com.