|
In June 2022, the Federal Communications Committee (FCC) updated its mapping system to show where high-speed service is-and is not-available across the country. Unfortunately, these maps are inaccurate and incomplete. For example, different locations within the same city block often experience varying levels of internet access and speeds; however, if one location has sufficient access, the FCC maps mark the entire surrounding area as such.
This is why the FCC has invited thepublic to dispute the information shown on the map by challenging information that they believe is inaccurate. Challenging inaccuracies within the maps is especially important in New Mexico where the gaps are particularly large. Initial reviews indicate that some areas reflect significantly overestimated coverage: New Mexico’s overreport rate is estimated at 18.27%. In other cases, internet access is technically available, but the actual technology isn’t accurately reported or locations are misrepresented. Consequently, this means that the maps reflect estimates, rather than a meaningful portrayal of factual data and resident experience. |
Keep reading: YOU can help improve internet for all of New Mexico!
Why does the mapping challenge matter to me?
|
Ranking 39th in the national for internet coverage, speed, and availability, New Mexico widely lacks the appropriate internet resources to access many important daily necessities. 1 in 5 residents cannot access a plan with greater than 25 mbps download speed, and some areas have no internet options whatsoever. Rural and tribal communities, which already suffer from a reduced amount of resources, are disproportionately impacted. Without sufficient broadband access, residents are more likely to miss out on economic opportunities, experience poorer health outcomes, and have fewer educational opportunities.
Your input to the FCC will directly impact the future of the internet in New Mexico. Each time a map challenge is successfully submitted, New Mexico could receive up to $4,700 MORE for broadband expansion projects. To receive the fullest possible financial impact and narrow our digital divide, we need you to share YOUR internet access experience. |
How do I check the map for my information?
|
|
What types of challenges can be submitted?
After you visit BroadbandMap.FCC.gov and search for your address and identify incorrect information, you should submit one of the following challenge types:
|
|
|
|
AVAILABILITY
CHALLENGE Service is considered to be “available” at a location if the provider has, or previously had, a connection in service to the location, or if the provider could initiate service through a routine installation within 10 business days of a request with no extraordinary monetary charges or delays attributable to the extension of the provider’s network. If you believe the services listed are not available or contain inaccurate information, submit a challenge.
|
LOCATION
CHALLENGE When you click on a point on the map, location information will appear on the right, including the address, if the location is business or residential (or both), and the number of separate units associated with that location. If you believe that any of the location information is incorrect, you can request a correction by filling out the form that appears when you click Location Challenge to the right of the address.
|
MOBILE
CHALLENGE These maps reflect where subscribers should be able to receive 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile connectivity when outdoors or in a moving vehicle; the maps do not display indoor coverage. If the information submitted by your provider doesn’t match your experience, you can dispute that information by taking outdoor or in-vehicle speed tests on your mobile device using the FCC Speed Test App.
|