New Mexico Launches Statewide Broadband Affordability Program to Support Low-Income Households
New Mexico is set to implement the Low-Income Telecommunications Assistance Program (LITAP), a statewide initiative aimed at providing broadband affordability similar to the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which lost funding in 2024. Sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla and cosponsored by State Representatives Pamelya Herndon and Debra Sariñana, the program was established through Senate Bill 152 and signed into law in March. The program, managed by New Mexico's Office of Broadband Access and Expansion, will begin enrolling participants in December following a rulemaking process. The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission has proposed rules to ensure high-speed internet discounts reach low-income, unserved, and underserved communities. Providers will verify income eligibility through a federal database and apply savings directly to customer bills, seeking reimbursement from the State Rural Universal Service Fund. 
