Wireless broadband problem plagues N.M.
Phone calls that drop and webpages that won’t load — beyond being frustrating, these modern day inconveniences can impact the way we live our lives and do business.
This week’s telecommunications emergency declaration in Santa Fe shows just how essential connectivity is to our communities by highlighting its impact to our public safety.
First responders, just like all of us, are becoming increasingly reliant on mobile devices, making reliable and fast wireless coverage more important than ever. And as we become more connected, we are putting greater demands on our current wireless networks. In just the past two years, data usage in the United States has increased 238 percent according to the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association.
It’s imperative that we invest in our local wireless broadband, not just to meet current demand but prepare us for the future. That’s why we will be introducing a bill in the upcoming legislative session that encourages new investment into our wireless networks.
The Wireless Consumer Advanced Infrastructure Investment Act would streamline and standardize rules regarding small cells, mini antennas that can be placed on existing structures to boost mobile internet in areas that need additional capacity. They can easily be attached to streetlights, utility poles and buildings to provide improved connectivity without the need to build new, large cell towers.
The bill would encourage wireless companies to invest in small cells in our towns and cities by establishing a statewide framework for managing small cell permit applications. It would set uniform standards that are fair and responsive to the needs of our municipalities, while providing companies access to deploy technology necessary to meet consumer demands on wireless networks.
The economic health of our communities depends on increased technology infrastructure. It benefits our existing businesses and helps attract new business, creating jobs and economic growth.
Advancements in mobile technology are moving quickly, and states must have policies in place to ensure that our communities are not being left behind.
Thirteen states already have passed similar legislation including our direct neighbors — Texas, Colorado and Arizona. Not enacting this legislation would not only put us at a competitive disadvantage nationally, but the disparity regionally would be glaring.
Without new wireless infrastructure, emergency declarations like the one in Santa Fe could go from anomaly to norm. We can’t afford to let that happen.
That’s why we urge support of the Wireless Consumer Advanced Infrastructure Investment Act.
New Mexicans must have access to the wireless connectivity they want and deserve.
Sen. Jacob Candelaria is a Democrat who represents District 26. Democratic Rep. Debbie Rodella represents District 41. Other contributors are Sen. Candace Gould, a Republican who represents District 10, and Rep. Jim Smith, a Republican who represents District 22.