Technology (Broadband Access)

HB 323 appropriates $5 million from the general fund to the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion for fiscal year 2027 and beyond. It directly assists low-income residents living in unincorporated areas, small municipalities (under 20,000 population), or tribal lands (reservations, pueblos, or trust lands) to access affordable broadband service. The bill mandates that unspent funds carry over annually instead of reverting to the general fund. This funding mechanism aims to expand broadband access in underserved communities without requiring additional annual appropriations.

SB 152 establishes a new Low-Income Telecommunications Assistance Program in New Mexico, replacing the previous "Low Income Telephone Service Assistance Act." The program directly affects low-income residents who qualify for telecom service assistance, waiving specific fees including the 911 emergency surcharge and telecommunications relay service surcharge. Key provisions include restructuring the existing broadband program, setting budget caps for the state rural universal service fund, and requiring regular reporting on program administration. The bill repeals the outdated Low Income Telephone Service Assistance Act to streamline eligibility and funding under the new framework.

SB 142 extends the authorization to issue up to $10 million annually in severance tax bonds for education technology infrastructure in New Mexico until July 1, 2030. The bonds, certified by the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion and sold by the State Board of Finance, fund school technology upgrades like broadband and digital tools. Proceeds are directed to an education technology infrastructure fund for public school systems. This maintains funding for school technology infrastructure projects beyond the current authorization period.