OBAE News:
The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) is urging residents to search for their address within the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) maps and challenge inaccurate or incomplete information before the Jan. 13, 2023, deadline.
Each successful challenge will bring thousands of dollars in federal funding to help establish sufficient internet coverage throughout the state.
Whether it’s buying groceries, participating in a well-check appointment, attending classes, renewing a driver’s license, or maintaining connections with loved ones, connectivity is critical to daily life.
Unfortunately, New Mexico widely lacks the appropriate internet resources to access many 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 number of resources, are disproportionately impacted.
In June 2022, the FCC updated its mapping system, which identifies broadband coverage and indicates where service is lacking or unavailable, as reported by Internet Service Providers. However, these maps are widely acknowledged as inaccurate and incomplete.
For instance, different locations within the same city block often experience varying levels of internet access and speeds; however, if one location within a city block has sufficient access, the FCC maps mark the entire surrounding area as such. This is one example of why the FCC has invited the public to “challenge”, or dispute incorrect information.
Challenging inaccuracies is especially important in New Mexico where the gaps are particularly large. An assessment of the maps by OBAE staff indicates approximately 35,000 missing locations, as well as inaccurate data associated with internet coverage and speeds across the entire state. An accurate map will help identify communities most in need of funding for high-speed internet projects. To receive the fullest possible financial impact and narrow our digital divide, we need you to share YOUR internet access experience.
How can you help improve the National Broadband Map?
- Search for your address at: BroadbandMap.FCC.gov before the FCC deadline—Jan. 13, 2023;
- Review all information reported, including list of providers, network technology (fiber, cable, DSL, satellite, or fixed wireless), and maximum advertised download and upload speeds offered. If you find any inaccurate or incomplete information, submit a challenge:
-Location Challenges allow you to add a missing location, correct the address or other details, and correct the geographic placement of your location.
-Availability Challenges allow you to correct services or reported speeds that are not available for purchase, report a provider denial of request for service or demand for connection charges that exceed a standard installation charge, and report failure to promptly schedule an installation.
Searching for your address within the maps and disputing inaccuracies will help improve internet for all of New Mexico. For further information or to access the media toolkit visit this link.
