WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of U.S. Senators has introduced legislation requiring the Federal Communications Commission to review its broadband mapping and challenge process, an effort aimed at improving the accuracy of maps used to determine where billions of dollars in federal broadband funding are directed.
The Broadband Mapping Accurate Providers (MAP) Act of 2026 was introduced by Sens. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), John Thune (R-S.D.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.). The measure would direct the FCC to evaluate the procedures behind its National Broadband Map, including the process providers use to challenge whether specific locations are classified as serviceable.
The National Broadband Map plays a central role in identifying unserved and underserved communities eligible for federal broadband investments. While the FCC has updated the map in recent years, lawmakers said broadband providers have continued to report problems with the agency’s challenge process, raising concerns that inaccurate data could affect funding decisions.
The legislation would require the FCC to assess its mapping methodology and challenge procedures and identify improvements to increase the reliability of broadband availability data.
Fetterman said accurate mapping is essential to expanding internet access, particularly in rural communities.
“Broadband internet is a necessity, especially for our rural communities,” Fetterman said. “The first step we can take to ensure families have internet access across Pennsylvania and the country is figuring out who still doesn’t.”
Thune said broadband providers’ firsthand knowledge of the areas they serve should be reflected in the mapping process.
“Ensuring the accuracy of the FCC’s broadband map and its corresponding challenge process is critical to build on our progress to make federal broadband investments as effective and efficient as possible,” Thune said.
Fischer said more accurate maps are needed to identify gaps in internet access and better target federal resources.
“We need a better understanding of where internet connectivity falls short, especially in rural America,” Fischer said. “With broadband maps, we can accomplish this goal; however, they must be accurate.”
The bill has received support from the FCC, NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association and NCTA–The Internet & Television Association.
Mike Romano, chief executive officer of NTCA, said the National Broadband Map has improved but remains “an iterative and evolving process,” adding that the legislation would encourage continued refinement of the standards and procedures used to develop it.
Cory Gardner, president and chief executive officer of NCTA, said the proposal would help improve the broadband deployment process by addressing mapping issues that influence network expansion and infrastructure planning.
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