SANTA FE — The Senate Finance Committee passed SB 401, the Broadband for Education bill, March 14 by a vote of 7 to 1, clearing the way for a full Senate vote.
The Broadband for Education bill would transfer the Statewide Education Network from the Public School Facilities Authority to the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion. The legislation would move all SEN staff, funds, projects and operations to the state’s broadband office.
We are pleased that the Finance Committee understands the significance of this bill and what it will mean for broadband expansion on the education front,” Drew Lovelace, acting director of OBAE, said. “SB 401 will make SEN run more efficiently, and such a transfer will enable us to leverage more education programs and allow for resiliency.”
SEN is currently run by OBAE, so the transfer will be seamless, and the move also provides OBAE with autonomy. PSFA also supports the bill.
SEN launched its broadband infrastructure program in July, connecting dozens of schools through a school-centric broadband network. The network will allow students and teachers to share classes, resources and educational and social services.
SEN plans to connect all New Mexico schools through this bold, high-tech program by 2027.
Passage of SB 401 will also allow for more middle mile broadband for SEN, something that will benefit broadband providers, schools and students. SEN middle mile could also be used in communications emergencies statewide.
The sponsors of SB 401 are Senate Majority Whip Sen. Michael Padilla, Rep. Debra Sarinana, Rep. Tara Lujan and Rep. Joy Garratt.
A Senate vote could come as early as March 15 or 16. If SB 401 passes, the legislation would be assigned to a House committee.
