New Mexico Broadband Office Faces Leadership Shake-Up Amid Funding Challenges
(TNS) — New Mexico’s Office of Broadband Access and Expansion is undergoing a leadership transition as Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration seeks a new permanent director. Drew Lovelace has returned to his former role as operations manager after his temporary appointment as acting director, with Department of Information Technology Secretary Manny Barreras stepping in on an interim basis.
The move comes after the office’s $70 million budget request was denied during this year’s legislative session, which aimed to provide satellite technology to approximately 95,000 households lacking high-speed internet access. Lovelace previously advocated for state vouchers to aid families not qualifying for federal broadband assistance, highlighting the urgent need for investment in New Mexico’s broadband infrastructure.
Despite significant state and federal funding, New Mexico continues to lag in broadband access and speeds compared to other states. Approximately 15% of the population remains without service. In response, the broadband office has distributed millions in grants and new legislation has been passed to enhance funding for public school broadband projects. As the state navigates these challenges, attention turns to how it will achieve improved connectivity for all residents.
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