STATE News:

SANTA FE – Legislation creating more competitive Congressional Districts (CD) Saturday passed the House of Representatives 44-24.

The updated CD map, having already passed the Senate, will now make its way to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law.

Sponsored by Rep. Georgene Louis (D-Albuquerque), Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), and Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto (D-Albuquerque), Senate Judiciary Committee substitute for Senate Bill 1 (CS/SB1) is a nearly 90 percent reflection of the original People’s Map developed by the independent Citizen Redistricting Committee, and upholds the main principles expressed by the thousands of New Mexicans who testified throughout its map drafting process.

The map makes necessary updates to bridge the state’s infamous urban-rural divide, fighting political polarization and instead building unity by ensuring that all of New Mexico’s federal Representatives represent interests across in the state. It also correctly reflects the Hispanic Voting Age Population, rightly giving greater voice to New Mexico’s largest ethnic group, which has historically been underrepresented. 

“This bill sensibly updates New Mexico’s three Congressional districts so that each one is more representative of our entire state, its diverse voices, and our unique communities,” Rep. Louis said. “With today’s passage, this legislature has helped ensure a federal delegation in Washington that fully represents our whole state – both rural and urban communities – and gives needed voice to New Mexico’s Hispanic and Native American voices.”

The Roundhouse is open to the public for this special session, and proof of full COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter the building. Virtual public also is available. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.