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Committee backs expanding broadband funding priorities, passes SB126 substitute
Summary
The committee voted 10‑0 to give a "do pass" recommendation to Senate Bill 126 after the sponsor and stakeholders negotiated language to broaden eligible recipients and update program language for the Universal Service Fund allocation toward broadband.
Senator Michael Padilla presented Senate Bill 126, a measure to adjust distribution of the state universal service fund toward broadband development and to modernize eligible recipients. The sponsor said the bill would shift a greater percentage of the fund toward broadband projects and, through the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion, prioritize projects that expand service in rural New Mexico.
The sponsor described an amendment that replaces the term "eligible telecommunications carriers" with "broadband providers," allowing providers that meet current broadband definitions to apply for fund dollars. Supporters from the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (JD Bollington) said the change would support distance learning, telehealth and economic development. Opponents, including the New Mexico Exchange Carrier Group, said removing the ETC designation could have regulatory and eligibility implications; the sponsor indicated willingness to work with carriers and to refine language in later stops.
Leader Armstrong and others discussed the technical implications of ETC status and the fund’s focus; Senator Padilla agreed to work with stakeholders and suggested further cleanups could be made in later committees (appropriations). The committee adopted the amendment and moved the bill. The roll call recorded 10 yes, 0 no on the do‑pass motion.
