Broadband AffordabilityThe 2026 New Mexico Legislature passed Senate Bill 152 to provide funding for LITAP, the New Mexico "Low Income Telecommunications Assistance Program” to address Broadband Affordability statewide!SB 152 authorizes $10 million in broadband funding to help low-income families afford broadband service. This bill is critical to help ensure everyone, despite their income level, has access to broadband.
SB 152 was introduced by Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla (D-14) and cosponsored by State Representatives Pamelya Herndon (D-28) and Debra Sariñana (D-21). It was prepared by OBAE in consultation with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC). (Download and read SB 152) The funding comes from the State Rural Universal Service Fund, which by current statute, has $40 million specifically earmarked for broadband programs. Broadband Affordability ResourcesExplore broadband affordability resources including a historic initiatives, local Internet provider lists, and information on affordability programs to help you access affordable internet
options in your area. U.S. AffordablE Connectivity Program ARCHIVE
Affordable Connectivity Program
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Wind-Down
ACP Registration Scheduled to Close February 7, 2024 In 2021, Congress established the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, appropriating $14.2 billion. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was tasked to develop and implement the ACP as well as ACP outreach and awareness activities. As of January 2024, over 22 million households are enrolled and receiving the ACP monthly benefit. For more general information about the ACP, visit GetInternet.gov. ___________________________________________ What’s happening next? Without additional funding from Congress, the allotted $14.2 billion to fund the ACP is projected to run out in April 2024 (this date is an estimate and may change). As a result, the FCC has begun taking steps to wind down the ACP, which means:
What does this mean for low-income households not in the ACP?
ACP households should:
Albuquerque: Affordable Connectivity Program & Internet Resource Fair
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Print Material for download from the Albuquerque Broadband Office
New Mexico Internet Service Providers
New Mexico Internet Service Providers
Low Cost Internet Plans
Low-cost internet options in New Mexico
Low-cost Internet PlansNDIA Free and Low Cost Internet Plans
Explore this compilation of free and affordable internet options provided by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). |