The bill amends Section 63-9H-6 of the New Mexico Statutes to increase the allocation from the State Rural Universal Service Fund for the broadband program from $30 million to $40 million, while also raising the cap on the fund's obligations, including administrative expenses, to the same amount. This change aims to enhance the support for universal telecommunications services, particularly in rural areas, by ensuring that eligible telecommunications carriers can access necessary funding for broadband infrastructure and services.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the commission in administering the fund, including establishing eligibility criteria, determining service areas requiring support, and ensuring that the fund operates in a competitively neutral manner. It mandates that a portion of the fund be dedicated to broadband infrastructure and requires annual reporting to the legislature on the fund's status and effectiveness. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 63-9H-6
Final Version: 63-9H-6