3 versions

SubstantiveWhat changed in ENGROSSED IN SENATEcompared with REPORTED TO SENATE (May 11, 2026)

A substantive refinement. v3 modifies the language around preventing inefficient use of broadband funds and introduces new procedural requirements for the FCC's notice of inquiry. It also expands the scope of both the FCC's inquiry and the GAO's study to include the consideration of incorporating third-party mapping data.

S. 2585119th CongressIntroduced Jul 31, 2025

MAP for Broadband Funding Act

Passed SenateScience, Technology, CommunicationsSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Sen. Fischer, Deb [R-NE]
Committees: Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
Last action: Jun 23, 2026

Bottom line

This bill aims to improve the transparency and effectiveness of federal broadband funding by enhancing the central mapping tool used to track deployment and by increasing agency accountability.

What it actually does

This bill directs the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in coordination with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to modernize the Broadband Funding Map. It mandates an inquiry into the map's functionality, data quality, and potential improvements, including the incorporation of third-party data. Additionally, it requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study on federal agencies' roles, responsibilities, and progress in maintaining the map and ensuring its completeness and relevance.

Proponents argue

Supporters argue that a more accurate and comprehensive Broadband Funding Map is crucial to prevent wasteful spending, avoid duplication of efforts, and ensure that federal funds are directed to truly unserved or underserved areas, thereby accelerating nationwide broadband deployment and maximizing taxpayer investment.

Opponents contend

Critics might argue that the bill adds unnecessary bureaucratic steps and studies, potentially delaying actual broadband deployment while agencies conduct inquiries and studies on a map that is already being developed. They might also contend that the existing framework is sufficient or that the proposed changes are minor and will not significantly improve efficiency.

The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for evaluation.

Section 3

FCC-NTIA Coordination and Inquiry for Map Modernization

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section mandates the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in coordination with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), to collect data for the Broadband Funding Map. It requires the FCC to initiate a notice of inquiry within 270 days to evaluate the map's optimum functionality, data quality, and transparency. The inquiry will consider data adequacy from federal agencies, user experience, timeliness of updates, scope of programmatic data, incorporation of third-party data, and integration with existing FCC mapping tools.

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupFederal agencies (FCC, NTIA, other funding agencies)ImpactIncreased coordination and data submission requirements, subject to evaluation.MechanismStatutory mandate for data collection and inquiry.ScaleAffects all federal agencies involved in broadband funding.

GroupBroadband providersImpactPotentially more targeted funding opportunities and reduced overlap in deployment areas.MechanismImproved map data guiding federal funding decisions.ScaleIndustry-wide.

GroupUnderserved communitiesImpactMore efficient allocation of broadband funds, potentially leading to faster deployment and better service.MechanismBetter data ensures funds go where most needed.ScaleNational, particularly rural and low-income areas.

Supporters argue

Supporters argue this provision is essential for creating a truly effective and transparent Broadband Funding Map, ensuring that federal investments are optimized and reach the areas most in need without duplication, thereby accelerating equitable broadband access.

Critics contend

Critics might argue that the inquiry process could introduce delays in an already urgent mission to deploy broadband, and that the existing statutory framework for the map should be given more time to mature before new inquiries are mandated, potentially creating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Tradeoffs

The tension lies between the desire for thoroughness and accuracy in mapping to ensure efficient spending versus the urgency of deploying broadband infrastructure. The inquiry aims for better data, but the process itself takes time and resources.

Section 4

Government Accountability Office Study and Report

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section directs the Comptroller General of the United States (GAO) to conduct a study within 180 days of enactment. The study will assess the roles, responsibilities, and progress of federal agencies in maintaining the Broadband Funding Map, including their compliance with data submission requirements. The GAO will also review the FCC's management of the map, interagency coordination, the sufficiency of FCC's authority to collect data, NTIA's data collection efforts, and the feasibility and benefits of incorporating third-party mapping data. A report on these findings will be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.

SubstantiveWhat changed in ENGROSSED IN SENATEcompared with REPORTED TO SENATE (May 11, 2026)

See full diff

S. 2585119th CongressIntroduced Jul 31, 2025

MAP for Broadband Funding Act

Passed SenateScience, Technology, CommunicationsSubstantive

View bill text

Sponsor: Sen. Fischer, Deb [R-NE]
Committees: Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
Last action: Jun 23, 2026

Bottom line

This bill aims to improve the transparency and effectiveness of federal broadband funding by enhancing the central mapping tool used to track deployment and by increasing agency accountability.

What it actually does

Proponents argue

Opponents contend

The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for evaluation.

Section 3

FCC-NTIA Coordination and Inquiry for Map Modernization

prominently featuredstraightforward

GroupImpactMechanismScale

GroupBroadband providersImpactPotentially more targeted funding opportunities and reduced overlap in deployment areas.MechanismImproved map data guiding federal funding decisions.ScaleIndustry-wide.

Supporters argue

Critics contend

Tradeoffs

Section 4

Government Accountability Office Study and Report

prominently featuredstraightforward