The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently published its national broadband map displaying high-speed internet availability. The map information is provided by internet service providers (ISPs) such as Comcast, CenturyLink, etc. Residents can submit a correction if the map has incorrect information by entering a “challenge” on the published map.

The FCC is accepting challenges on a rolling basis, and any challenge made before January 13, 2023, could impact Minnesota’s share of $43 billion in nationwide broadband funding. This is not a Hennepin County deadline—this deadline was set by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

What can Hennepin County residents do?

•  Look up your address on the map and review its information (instructions here)
• If information is incorrect about the location or services available, you can file a challenge (instructions linked from here)
  • An example of an “incorrect location” would be an incorrect unit count for a building with multiple units.
  • An example of “incorrect services available” would be if the map shows that an ISP provides a certain level of service to your home, but the ISP does not offer that speed or technology for your address.
    Mobile coverage data can be disputed with the FCC Speed Test App, more information on mobile challenges here.
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  • Anyone, anywhere, can submit a challenge via the map, and a challenge will be more substantial if multiple reports are made.

After submitting a challenge, the FCC will begin reviewing and keep you updated as the challenge moves through the FCC process. Once a challenge is filed, ISPs must review it and have 60 days to dispute it or concede.

Thank you for your help in ensuring Hennepin County information is correct. Accurately reflecting broadband needs, especially before January 13, 2023, will help accurately distribute Hennepin County’s share of $43 billion in nationwide broadband funding.