SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico regulators are considering whether to allow Sacred Power Communications access to certain funds to help pay for telecom projects in outlying areas of the Navajo Nation.
The Public Regulation Commission heard arguments in the case last week. The agency's general counsel is now preparing a draft order with recommendations for the commission.
Sacred Power is seeking $2 million in Universal Service Funds. The company says the money would help pay for the extension of high-speed telecom and Internet capabilities to underserved Navajo areas in northwestern New Mexico.
If approved, the disbursement would increase Universal Service Fund surcharges for telecommunications customers statewide.
Commissioner Jason Marks cautions that millions of dollars in subsidies have already flowed to Sacred Wind by virtue of PRC orders and the commission needs to look closely at the request.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
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