A state senator has introduced legislation aimed at modernizing New Mexico's 30-year-old telecommunications law.
Sen. Majority Whip Michael Padilla says his bill would create a level playing field when it comes to regulation.
By freeing up large carriers from outdated rules, he says the measure would also encourage more investment in broadband and high-speed wireless communications.
Similar legislation failed last year, but Padilla says he and other lawmakers met with stakeholders to resolve some of the issues.
Under the legislation introduced earlier this week, the state Public Regulation Commission would maintain its authority to regulate telecommunications companies on behalf of New Mexico's consumers.
Padilla says the existing law was adopted years before the widespread adoption of the Internet and wireless communication.
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