FCC Proposes 'Delete, Delete, Delete' Broadband Rule
Published Date: 6/24/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to make broadband data collection easier and less annoying for internet providers by cutting outdated rules and simplifying reports. This affects companies that share internet coverage info, aiming to speed up updates and keep data accurate without extra hassle. They’re asking for feedback now, with changes possibly rolling out soon to save time and money while improving how we track internet access.
Analyzed Economic Effects
10 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 5 mixed.
Stop reporting 'grandfathered' fixed service
If you are a broadband provider, the FCC is asking whether you should no longer have to report ‘‘grandfathered’’ fixed broadband services in the Broadband Data Collection (BDC). The change would let providers omit locations that have service only for existing customers and that the provider no longer markets to new customers.
Drop low‑speed fixed reporting below 25/3 Mbps
The FCC is asking whether fixed broadband providers should no longer be required to report availability for services with maximum advertised speeds below 25/3 Mbps. If adopted, locations with only sub-25/3 Mbps service might no longer appear as served in the National Broadband Map.
Relax 7‑meter antenna height rule
The FCC is asking whether to relax the seven‑meter maximum customer antenna height that fixed wireless providers must use when modeling coverage and whether to allow higher heights (for example, ten meters) or different heights by environment. Providers that model with higher heights might claim broader coverage on the National Broadband Map.
End 3G reporting (possible Alaska carve‑out)
The FCC is considering removing the requirement that providers report 3G mobile broadband availability in BDC filings. The agency notes that most carriers sunset 3G in 2022, only 10 of 52 filers reported 3G in June 2025, and about 74,000 square kilometers of 3G‑only area remains—mostly in Alaska; the FCC asks whether Alaska should be carved out to keep 3G data.
Drop mobile voice filing requirement (Alaska concern)
The FCC is asking whether mobile voice availability should no longer be required in BDC biannual submissions because the BDC focuses on broadband, though it notes mobile voice data have been collected for legacy and public safety reasons and asks whether Alaska should continue to report these data or use a special collection.
Use infrastructure data to rebut fixed challenges
The FCC is asking whether fixed providers should be allowed to presumptively rebut fixed (including bulk) challenges by submitting infrastructure data directly to staff, or whether infrastructure data should be required for certain bulk challenges. The FNPRM notes this could shorten the 60‑day resolution period and speed outcomes.
Allow speed test data to restore mobile coverage
The FCC seeks comment on permitting mobile providers to submit on‑the‑ground speed test data (in addition to infrastructure data) to restore locations or areas removed from the National Broadband Map. The agency asked whether OEA could announce that mobile providers may submit such test data.
Remove fixed maximum buffer reporting
The FCC is considering removing the requirement that fixed wireline providers report 'maximum buffer' values used to decide whether they can serve a location. Instead the FCC may require those buffer details only during audits, verifications, or restoration requests.
Data retention: three‑year rule or guidance
The FCC is considering whether to require providers to retain supporting materials for BDC filings and challenge responses for a defined period (the Fourth FNPRM proposed three years) or instead issue voluntary best‑practice guidance. Commenters suggested two, three, five, or ten years as options.
Always treat certain BDC data as confidential
The FCC is proposing to expressly treat subscription data, geographic coordinates of base stations, link‑budget rationales, and infrastructure data submitted for verification or audit as always confidential. This would limit public disclosure of those data elements.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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