Fischer, Cortez Masto Push Agencies for Update on Creation of the Broadband Deployment Locations Map

Press Release

U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), members of the Senate Commerce Committee, today sent letters to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other relevant agencies requesting an update on progress in coordinating the creation of the Deployment Locations Map.

Last year, Sens. Fischer and Cortez Masto secured the inclusion of an amendment in the bipartisan infrastructure bill that required the FCC to consult with relevant federal agencies to develop the Deployment Locations Map, a publicly accessible interactive map that would display the network locations of broadband infrastructure projects funded by the federal government.

The goal of the mapping tool is to enhance transparency, maximize responsible use of federal dollars among different agencies and avoid network overbuilding -- ensuring funding reaches as many households as possible that are in need of internet connectivity.

Key excerpts from the senators' letter to the FCC:

"Absent a transparent overview of where this federal funding is going, it will be increasingly difficult for federal agencies to distribute resources where they are needed most, and without duplication. This is essential as more funding is invested in closing the digital divide.

[…]

"We look forward to your answers on the progress of the Commission's role in creating the Deployment Locations Map, as we seek to ensure its timely and successful completion."

The full letter can be read here.

The letter is part of Sens. Fischer and Cortez Masto's broader effort to ensure the FCC and all other relevant federal agencies are making timely progress in their implementation of the Deployment Locations Map.

The senators also sent letters requesting progress updates to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Treasury Department, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Click the links below to read each letter to the respective agencies:

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
The Department of Agriculture (USDA)
The Department of Treasury
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
The Institute of Museum and Library Services

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