Music students from Highlands University perform in the Rotunda at the New Mexico State Capitol Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. Courtesy/Michael G. Seamans/The New Mexican
Music students from Highlands University perform in the Rotunda at the New Mexico State Capitol Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. Courtesy/Michael G. Seamans/The New Mexican
Legislative Roundup
The Santa Fe New Mexican
Clean Horizons Act: A bill that seeks to meet Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is off the ground.
Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, on Thursday announced the introduction of Senate Bill 4, the proposed Clean Horizons Act, as well as two companion bills, which Stewart said will “provide a bold framework for reducing pollution, strengthening communities, and building a future where New Mexicans thrive.”
“These bills are about creating solutions for today’s challenges while making smart investments for tomorrow,” Stewart said in a statement. “When we reduce pollution, we’re not just protecting the environment — we’re protecting families, creating good-paying jobs, and investing in the safety and resilience of our communities.”
The Clear Horizons Act, which Stewart said would set clear pollution reduction targets, is scheduled to be considered at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the Senate Conservation Committee.
Passing the bill is a high priority for New Mexico’s conservation community and the Environmental Defense Fund.
“The Clear Horizons Act provides the critical framework, tools and resources New Mexico needs to hold polluters accountable and protect communities from the worst impacts of climate change,” said Michael Bueno, a senior manager at EDF Action.
The bill also has detractors.
“While New Mexicans are still struggling to pay their bills, setting up another government fund in the name of a failed agenda is not the answer,” said Larry Behrens, a spokesperson for the pro-oil and gas group Power the Future.
Game Commission bill set for hearing: A bill that would change the appointment process for the New Mexico Game Commission is among the first the Senate Rules Committee will consider.
Chairwoman Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, said the committee will consider Senate Bill 5, which would also increase hunting and fishing license fees and rename the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish as the Department of Wildlife, during its 9 a.m. Monday meeting.
The Legislature passed a similar bill last year that Lujan Grisham pocket-vetoed.
Lead sponsor Rep. Matthew McQueen, D-Galisteo, said he’s optimistic this proposal will be signed into law.
“This year’s bill is a great improvement and was negotiated with a wide variety of New Mexicans who want to make sure that the Department has the right tools, funding and authority to manage wildlife based on science, not politics,” he said in a statement. “The Governor’s Office and the Department deserve a lot of credit for bringing people together and I’m hopeful for their support.”
The committee is also poised to consider Senate Bill 85, which would amend the Campaign Reporting Act and require disclosures related to electronic communications.
After considering the two bills, the committee is scheduled to receive training on confirmations.
Say ‘Cheese!’: Legislators are among the sharpest dressers at the state Capitol.
But expect them to be in their Sunday best next week.
Lawmakers will be taking their official photograph. Senators will be up first on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by House members Thursday and Friday.
“Just understand that’s the official photograph, so you want to dress accordingly for that,” Senate Majority Floor Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, advised senators.
Quote of the Day: “This is better than money, Mr. President. I guarantee you, you want to buy a vote, there’s a way to do it.” — Sen. Pat Woods, R-Broadview, said Wednesday while praising cheese made in Tucumcari that was included in a gift bag to lawmakers from the Tucumcari Rotary Club.