News
Officials in New Mexico’s broadband office have publicly called on federal officials to release $293 million in remaining broadband funds.
By Brad Randall, Broadband Communities
New Mexico has begun calling for the federal government to release $293 million from the federal government that was originally appropriated to them as part of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
The program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has been targeted for reforms by the Department of Commerce. As such, states have been directed to submit proposals that the department considers more cost effective.
Previously, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Administrator Arielle Roth said total “savings” for taxpayers are now estimated at $21 billion following reforms announced last June.
However, public officials have pressed the commerce department on the issue.
“Universal connectivity takes more than infrastructure construction”
Now, New Mexico has joined the fray.
In a statement dated March 17, New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) Director Jeff Lopez said it’s imperative that the NTIA release the funds appropriated to New Mexico by Congress.
He said the funds would help New Mexico reach goals relating to broadband deployment, workforce development, and digital opportunity.
“Achieving universal connectivity takes more than infrastructure construction—many support services, programs, and other projects are necessary to ensure all New Mexicans have the broadband resources to succeed,” Lopez said.
According to the OBAE, the remaining funds would help support a myriad of efforts, including a push to streamline permitting processes for broadband deployments at state, county, and municipal permitting agencies.
OBAE’s release said funding would also support connecting community anchor institutions (schools, libraries, and health clinics) and digital literacy initiatives.
Connecting multifamily properties and broadband mapping were also listed as other goals in OBAE’s announcement.
“The remaining $293—a combined $675 million from BEAD—will lead to 100% broadband connectivity in New Mexico, transforming lives and improving access to opportunity across the state,” the release stated.
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