S5015119th CongressWALLET

Broadband MAP Act of 2026

Sponsored By: Senator Thune, John [R-SD]

Introduced

Summary

Accurate broadband maps make it clearer where internet service exists and where help is needed. This bill would require the Federal Communications Commission to review and evaluate the processes for updating broadband availability maps and the challenge process, and to open a rulemaking within 120 days that considers four specified factors.

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  • Households and communities: Could change whether a location is marked serviceable by shaping the challenge and restoration processes that feed the maps.
  • Broadband providers: The FCC must weigh how proposed mapping changes would affect providers, which could influence reporting responsibilities and participation in programs.
  • Funders and policymakers: The rulemaking must consider how map changes affect the use of maps in funding decisions, which could shift where public broadband dollars go.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

FCC review of broadband maps

This bill would require the FCC to start a rulemaking within 120 days of enactment to review how broadband availability maps are updated and how the challenge process works. The FCC would have to consider fairness of proposed map changes, how maps affect funding decisions, impacts on broadband providers, and ongoing mapping and restoration efforts. The bill would also define key terms like "broadband serviceable location" and "challenge process" when it is enacted. This would be a review only and would not by itself change funding or who gets service.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Thune, John [R-SD]

SD • R

Cosponsors

  • Sen. Fetterman, John [D-PA]

    PA • D

    Sponsored 7/16/2026

  • Sen. Fischer, Deb [R-NE]

    NE • R

    Sponsored 7/16/2026

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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