Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Broadband Mapping After Scrutiny (MAPS) Act into the U.S. House of Representatives. The measure would require the FCC to establish a challenge process to verify fixed and mobile broadband service coverage data. Current FCC broadband maps are inaccurate, showing coverage where it doesn’t exist, Inside Towers reported. This leaves consumers without access to broadband and directs funding to the wrong areas.
“Our communities know better than a map if they have access to fast, reliable broadband,” said Latta. “While we know these broadband maps are inaccurate, there currently isn’t a way for local governments to challenge them — HR.2643 would change that. Better maps mean better broadband availability.”
Welch added: “The first step in solving a problem is admitting there is one. Broadband coverage maps are a mess and must be fixed. In the interest of creating accurate maps, local organizations should be permitted to challenge flawed data. Our bill will allow local input which will improve the accuracy of these maps.”
HR.2643 has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The measure is similar to the Improving Broadband Mapping Act of 2019 (S.842), introduced earlier this year in the U.S. Senate.
May 14, 2019
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