Rural broadband advocates are backing new bipartisan legislation aimed at improving the accuracy of the nation's broadband maps. The Broadband Mapping Accurate Providers, or MAP Act, was introduced by Senators John Thune of South Dakota, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, and Deb Fischer of Nebraska. The bill would require the Federal Communications Commission to review how broadband maps are updated, evaluate the challenge process, and examine how mapping data affects funding decisions.
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association supports the proposal, saying more accurate maps will help direct broadband investments to communities that still lack reliable service. NTCA CEO Mike Romano says, "The Broadband MAP Act of 2026 would help spur continuous improvement in the map through a renewed look at the standards and processes used to develop and refine it." Supporters say the legislation would help ensure future broadband policy and funding decisions are based on the best available data.
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