Summary:

 Senate Bill 126 (SB 126): This Act relates to telecommunications; increasing the amount from the state rural universal service fund allocated to the broadband program and increasing the cap on obligations of the state rural universal service fund plus amending the administrative expenses and fund balance criteria.   

Legislation Overview:

 Senate Bill 126 (SB 126): This act amends the existing telecommunication law to increase funding for the broadband program from $30 million to $40 million, also raising the cap on obligations of the State Rural Universal Service Fund (including administrative expenses and a prudent fund balance) from $30 million to $40 million. The legislation aims to support and maintain universal service provided by eligible telecommunications carriers in rural and underserved areas of New Mexico. It establishes a fund financed by a surcharge on intrastate telecommunications services, excluding services for low-income plans and other specified entities and purposes. The fund is to be used equitably and competitively, with specific provisions for the administration, eligibility criteria, and disbursement of the funds to ensure broadband access and service affordability. The act also mandates annual reports on the fund's status and progress towards digital equity and includes provisions for a third-party administrator to manage the fund under commission supervision. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.