Update state’s antiquated telecommunications regs

New Mexico’s telecommunications legislation was passed in 1985, before a device connected to the Internet was as common as a stove in people’s homes, before a cell phone was as essential to daily life as a driver’s license. Back then, land lines were king and regulations were designed to ensure expansion of the kingdom.

But, in 2015, when more and more consumers are opting for wireless and/or broadband options, it is in no one’s interest to continue to prioritize extensive corporate investment in what is becoming outdated technology over investment in these new telecommunications options.

Sen. Michael Padilla’s SB 193 needs to pass not only to bring New Mexico into the 21st century, but also to allow large telecommunications companies to compete in the marketplace. Look no further than CenturyLink, which has seen its 535,000 land-line customer base shrink to 375,000 in one year. Yet instead of being free to respond to market forces, and invest more heavily in broadband and phone technology in New Mexico, instead of being allowed to compete with cell, cable and satellite providers via bundled services and flexible pricing, CenturyLink is still required under 1985 law to go through an arduous rate process, as well as put land line work first. Why not bring back buggy whips while they’re at it? Padilla, an Albuquerque Democrat, says his bill “would level the playing field” without changing any of the Public Regulation Commission’s ability to oversee customer service standards. CenturyLink Vice President Valerie Dodd says it would give her company the ability to offer special pricing deals to adapt to competitive market conditions, as well as help persuade Louisiana-based CenturyLink, which is in 37 markets, to invest more heavily in broadband and phone technology here.

Remaining viable is important to a company that employes 550 to 600 New Mexicans and serves hundreds of thousands more. Providing competitive telecommunications products and rates is key to getting other companies to move to and/or stay in New Mexico.

Padilla has done his homework and says he has bipartisan support for his bill in the House. Lawmakers in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle should update the 1985 Telecommunications Act this session before potential customers hang up on the Land of Enchantment.