FCC Broadband Map - how to challenge?
We are very proud of all our broadband mapping efforts.
ECC’s statewide inventory and mapping program is being used to support New York State’s FCC Challenge!
Article from LightReading.com about the NYS challenge currently in process!
“….The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to debut the first draft of its much-anticipated broadband map sometime in November. Early mumblings from those who've seen the data in progress suggest the public should lower its expectations for version one.
That is somewhat by design, as the mapping effort has a challenge process baked in allowing ISPs and local governments to let the FCC know if the data is accurate or not. But that process is also imperfect and risks leaving communities out.
Some states, like New York, are using their own broadband maps to cross check the data used by the FCC. New York contracted with ECC Technologies last year on a statewide broadband mapping effort…..”
We’re also working through a similar process in New Jersey!
So…. What is the FCC Broadband Map Challenge Process and Why is it Important?
The FCC is creating new broadband maps to ensure all residents have the opportunity to be eligible for federal support for high-speed broadband deployment.
The broadband availability maps will be instrumental in determining where the over $42 billion in funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law goes.
What Can Be Challenged?
Fabric Challenges
Common dataset of all locations (or structures) in the U.S. where fixed broadband internet access service can be installed. Challenges to this are as follows:
A location that meets the commission’s definition of a serviceable location is missing
A location’s serviceability is incorrectly identified
Information is incorrect - address, number of units etc.
Location placement is incorrect - geographic coordinates
Fixed Availability Challenges
2,500 providers have reported data - you can dispute a particular location or set of locations for the type of technology and advertised speeds.
Reported service is not offered or the speed is not available
Provider denied a request for service or demanded connection charges that exceed standard installation charges
Provider failed to schedule or perform an installation within 10 business days of the request
Mobile Availability Challenges
Challengers can dispute mobile broadband service using on-the-ground speed test data.
How To Challenge?
Individual - For single locations. Accepted directly through the map interfaces after launch in November 2022.
Bulk - For multiple locations. Filed directly into the BDC system and must meet the format of the applicable data specification. Bulk fabric challenges began in September 2022 and bulk availability challenges will begin after map launch in November 2022.
Important Dates!
Keep your calendar updated:
November 2022
Release of first broadband map iteration
Challenges to be accepted 10 days after release
Early 2023
FCC compiles updated availability and challenge data
FCC to Submit 2nd iteration of map
Spring 2023
Federal agencies will consult the map to distribute funds for broadband deployment programs