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The Federal Communications Commission is undertaking steps to change the way data is collected for their National Broadband Map.
By Brad Randall, Broadband Communities
The rural broadband picture in the U.S. is looking up, according to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who recently applauded progress he says is reflected in the agency’s new broadband map.
The map, now in its eighth version, shows that 96 percent of locations have access to a terrestrial fixed service of at least 100/20 Mbps.
In a statement posted to the FCC’s website Thursday, Carr said 96.8 percent of locations also have access to mobile 5G services of at least 7/1 Mbps.
“And none of this counts the many new connections that are now powered by next-gen satellite services,” he said. “At the same time, we know there is more work to do.”
Additionally in his statement, Carr applauded additional steps taken by the FCC that he says will streamline the process for broadband data collection.
According to the FCC, a new notice of proposed rulemaking will solicit comments regarding approaches that could simplify and streamline the coverage restoration process. Comments will also be sought on topics like eliminating requirements to submit grandfathered data, best practices for data retention, mobile verification, audit process improvements, and other process improvements, the FCC said.
Carr said the FCC will aim to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and make the challenge and verification processes easier for stakeholders.
Trusty encourages input
Olivia Trusty, a fellow Republican on the FCC, said she welcomed the effort. In her own statement, Trusty spoke about the need for change, saying she’s heard almost universally about the need to improve accuracy and streamline processes regarding the National Broadband Map.
“I encourage robust input on these questions from the full range of stakeholders, including providers, federal and state governments, consumers, and others with a vested interest in the success of the National Broadband Map,” Trusty said.
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