This law sends a clear message that all New Mexicans deserve access to broadband despite their income. The governor's signature ensures that tens of thousands of New Mexicans will now be able to afford high-speed internet. I am grateful the governor and the Legislature took action on this important bipartisan issue to help low-income families pay for this vital infrastructure.
New Mexico's Low-Income Telecommunications Assistance Program (LITAP) took a key step toward becoming law Friday with its unanimous passage by the state senate. Senate Bill 152 would provide $10 million in funding to help as many as 27,000 low-income residents in need in New Mexico get broadband. The funding will come from the Public Regulation Commission's State Rural Universal Service Fund. That fund has $40 million earmarked for broadband funding.
Now, the city is offering more generous aid for water bills, with three different tiers of assistance depending on need. For residents who make less than half of the area's median income - currently $195,200 for a family of four - the program would provide 50% off fixed water bills, water meter and sewer connection costs, and up to $50 off water consumption costs.