Senate File No. 868 is a bill introduced to the Minnesota legislature that proposes to update and clarify how broadband grants can be used and how broadband coverage is mapped in the state. Key components of the bill include:

1. Expansion of Grant Usage: The bill allows broadband grants to be used specifically for establishing fixed wireless broadband services, in addition to existing services.

2. Clarification of Definitions and Areas:

   • Broadband Definition: It reinforces the definition of broadband and other terms like 'last-mile' and 'middle-mile' infrastructure.
   • Underserved and Unserved Areas: It defines 'underserved areas' as places where internet speeds are less than 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, and 'unserved areas' as places lacking basic broadband as per set standards.

3. Broadband Mapping Requirements:

   • Data Collection: The Office of Broadband Development is tasked to annually contract organizations to collect, verify, and map broadband deployment data.
   • Map Availability and Updates: Updated broadband availability maps must be made public every year to highlight service levels across Minnesota and guide future infrastructure investments.
   • Surveys: The bill also mandates conducting surveys to measure broadband usage and adoption.

This bill aims to improve and expand broadband infrastructure in Minnesota, especially focusing on the areas with inadequate services, and to ensure accurate and comprehensive mapping and data for informed decision-making in future broadband projects.