Washington, D.C. (WQOW) — A bill aimed at getting Wisconsin up to speed when it comes to rural internet received a key vote on Wednesday.

Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) wrote the Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability (DATA) Act. It aims to improve how the FCC maps rural areas and help with the expansion of broadband access to people living in rural areas.

Wednesday, the measure passed the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Technology.

In a statement, Sen. Baldwin said: “Reliable high-speed broadband is critical to strengthening small businesses and communities throughout rural Wisconsin. Our bipartisan legislation will modernize the broadband mapping process, assuring that all broadband maps are accurate and effective. Access to broadband is necessary to make sure every person in Wisconsin has the tools to compete in today’s digitally-run economy—no matter where they live.”

New research shows that Wisconsin ranks near the bottom of internet-connected states. The report found that close to one-fifth of the state has limited or no access to high speed internet.