With billions for broadband on the line, Texas asks federal government for more time to improve access maps

Texas officials are asking the federal government for more time to dispute maps that illustrate where broadband is available. The maps will be used to decide where the government spends billions of dollars to improve internet access, but there's a problem. Right now, you need internet access in order to submit a challenge of the maps. (Credit: REUTERS/Amira Karaoud)

LUFKIN — More than $42 billion of federal funding for high-speed internet hinges on a map that state and local leaders say is “clearly” flawed.

Released last month, the map offers household-level information about who lacks access to reliable, high-speed internet. Now, as the deadline to dispute the accuracy of the nationwide map is quickly approaching, state Comptroller Glenn Hegar has asked the federal government for more time.