The bill amends the Rural Telecommunications Act of New Mexico to create a Low-Income Telecommunications Assistance Program and restructure the existing broadband program. It introduces a $1.00 911 emergency surcharge on subscribers, exempting those enrolled in the low-income assistance program, and clarifies definitions related to telecommunications services to improve understanding and implementation. The bill also establishes a "state rural universal service fund" to support affordable access to telecommunications services, particularly for low-income households and underserved areas, with specific budget caps set for the fund's obligations.

Additionally, the bill repeals the Low-Income Telephone Service Assistance Act and certain sections of the NMSA 1978, streamlining existing laws to align with federal regulations while enhancing consumer protections. The commission is tasked with administering the new fund, establishing eligibility criteria, and reporting annually on the status of the low-income assistance and broadband programs. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, aiming to improve telecommunications access and affordability for rural and low-income residents in New Mexico.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 63-9A-5, 63-9D-5, 63-9F-11, 63-9H-4, 63-9H-6
FC substitute: 63-9A-5, 63-9D-5, 63-9F-11, 63-9H-4, 63-9H-6
Final Version: 63-9A-5, 63-9D-5, 63-9F-11, 63-9H-4, 63-9H-6