Data BRIDGE Act

This bill tells the Federal Communications Commission to add a new layer to the National Broadband Map that shows where agricultural areas are. The goal is to make it clearer where farms and farm communities are located when planning and tracking internet service. The FCC must make this update within 180 days after the law takes effect and keep it up to date. It must also work with the Department of Agriculture, the Commerce Department’s communications office, states, and other relevant groups when adding this data layer.

Key points:

• Who is affected: People and communities in agricultural areas; federal and state agencies involved in mapping and broadband planning.
• What changes: The National Broadband Map will include a layer showing the location of agricultural areas, with input from USDA, Commerce, states, and other stakeholders.
• When: The update must happen within 180 days after the law is enacted, and then be maintained over time.