With a goal of ensuring that federal broadband policy and funding decisions are based upon the best real-world data, U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) on July 16 proposed a bipartisan bill that would take a new look at the standards and processes used to develop and refine the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) broadband mapping process.
“We need a better understanding of where internet connectivity falls short, especially in rural America,” Sen. Fischer said. “With broadband maps, we can accomplish this goal; however, they must be accurate.”
The maps must correctly identify unserved and underserved communities, she added, to “safeguard taxpayer dollars while connecting more Americans to high-speed internet.”
Sen. Fischer cosponsored the Broadband Mapping Accurate Providers (MAP) Act of 2026, S. 5015, alongside fellow cosponsor U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) and bill sponsor U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD).
“Broadband internet is a necessity, especially for our rural communities,” said Sen. Fetterman. “The first step we can take to ensure families have internet access across Pennsylvania and the country is figuring out who still doesn’t. I look forward to working with the FCC when the maps are complete to continue to expand broadband.”
S. 5015 would instruct the FCC to review and assess the mapping and challenge process to work better for providers who are working to get Americans connected, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Fischer’s staff.
The bill is supported by NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association and NCTA – The Internet and Television Association. It has been referred for consideration to the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.