PRC and Broadband Office Propose Rules for New Mexico Broadband Affordability Program

New Initiative Projected to lower Internet Bills for Thousands of New Mexico Households Starting in December

SANTA FE – More than 20,000 households could soon see lower broadband bills as the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) begins the rulemaking process for a new statewide affordability initiative spearheaded by the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE). Established through Senate Bill 152 and signed into law earlier this year, the Low‑Income Telecommunications Assistance Program (LITAP) is designed to make high‑speed internet more affordable for low‑income families across the state.
 
Beginning in December, eligible customers will be able to apply for monthly broadband discounts of up to $30, and up to $70 for homes on Tribal lands. LITAP is estimated to benefit about 27,000 households in its first year, helping New Mexicans stay connected to essential services such as education, telehealth, workforce training, and public safety.
 
“This program will help address affordability challenges faced by New Mexico families,” said OBAE Director Jeff Lopez. “I am confident that come December 1, low-income families will have a new resource to ensure their household stays connected to all the critical services that broadband provides including education, healthcare, and workforce training. Our mission is more than expanding broadband – we want to make this vital infrastructure affordable to all New Mexicans.”
 
To support the launch of the new program, the NMPRC has proposed rules detailing how high-speed internet discounts will reach low-income, unserved, and underserved communities. Under the proposed rules, state-approved internet providers will inform customers about available discounts and verify their income eligibility through a federal database. Once confirmed, providers apply the savings directly to the customer’s bill and seek reimbursement from the State Rural Universal Service Fund (SRUSF).
 
“High‑speed internet is a fundamental part of modern infrastructure,” said Commissioner Patrick O’Connell. “It’s essential for public health, safety, and everyday life. Through this rulemaking, the Public Regulation Commission is putting Senate Bill 152’s access and affordability provisions into action.”
 
Members of the public and key stakeholders are invited to review the proposed rules and share their feedback with the NMPRC. Written comments may be submitted via PRCe360, referencing case no. 25-00065-UT, through September 11, with reply comments accepted until September 21. All public input will play a vital role in shaping the final rules for how the program is administered. OBAE will also submit its recommendations ahead of the designated deadlines.
 
Additionally, the NMPRC will hold a public comment hearing on the proposed changes and any suggested alternatives at 1 p.m. on October 1 in Pecos Hall at the Wendell Chino Building in Santa Fe.
 
New Mexico becomes the first state to create its own replacement for the discontinued federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which previously helped more than 180,000 New Mexicans afford broadband service before it ended in 2024.

A PDF version of this release is available here.

NOTE: The Candle reached out to the PRC seeking more information related to the timing of the assistance that would be provided, and received the following response from the agency’s Communications Director Patrick Rodriguez:

“In the first year, the program is capped at $10 million, which means only about 27,000 households can access the $30 monthly broadband discount — even though state and LFC estimates show that more than 170,000 New Mexico households meet the eligibility criteria. In other words, tens of thousands of low‑income families who qualify for help won’t be able to receive it right away simply because year‑one funding is limited.

“On the positive side, the program funding amount does grow quickly. Beginning in year two, LITAP expands to $45 million annually, allowing support for more than 100,000 households. Even at that higher level, demand may still exceed available funds, underscoring how significant the need is and how impactful this affordability program will be as it progresses.”

The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) serves New Mexico by ensuring safe operations and reliable utility services at fair, just, and reasonable rates consistent with the State’s legal, economic, environmental, and social policies. To learn more about the work of the NMPRC, please visit www.prc.nm.gov

The Office of Broadband Access and Expansion is dedicated to serving New Mexico with a commitment to make high-speed broadband accessible to all New Mexicans. OBAE’s mission is to expand and improve high-speed internet service with passionate leadership that drives bold, equitable, affordable and inclusive broadband solutions. OBAE seeks results that honor the state’s rich heritage and elevate quality of life for all.