SANTA FE, N.M. – The New Mexico Legislature wrapped up its 30day session, having passed a significant portion of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's agenda, including a substantial $10.2 billion budget for the fiscal year 2025, marking a 6.8 percent increase over current state spending. Yet, despite these achievements, the governor is contemplating a special session focused on enhancing public safety, a critical issue she believes requires further attention.
Out of 72 bills passed during the session, 48 received backing from the governor and state agencies, leading to major investments across various sectors, including housing, healthcare, education, and the environment. These initiatives, according to Gov. Lujan Grisham, represent 'an incredibly successful session on many fronts.' However, she said that the work is not complete, particularly in combating the 'scourge of violent crime' in New Mexico.
The governor's unfulfilled public safety agenda includes several key proposals such as establishing no-bond holds for repeat felony offenders, instituting a 7-day waiting period for firearm purchases, and restricting firearms near polling places. Other significant measures include increasing penalties for seconddegree and attempted murder, enhancing recruitment and retention in law enforcement, and promoting clean fuels and healthcare access.
Among the session's highlights, the Legislature approved $200 million for initiatives aimed at reducing homelessness and improving low-income and workforce housing. An additional $86 million was allocated to literacy projects, including the establishment of a new Literacy Institute. The healthcare sector saw a boost with $97 million earmarked for Medicaid reimbursement rate increases, aiming to improve maternal, children’s, primary, and behavioral health services.
Infrastructure and environmental projects also received substantial funding, with over $1 billion dedicated to water, natural resources, and road improvements, alongside significant investments in state and city parks and beautification efforts.
A noteworthy component of the session's legislative achievements is the tax package (HB 252), which proposes $272 million in tax cuts for New Mexicans. This includes incentives for clean car purchases, such as tax credits for new and used electric vehicles and plugin hybrids, and an advanced manufacturing tax credit to support the purchase of advanced manufacturing equipment.
Gov. Lujan Grisham's consideration of a special session highlights the ongoing dialogue around public safety within her administration's broader policy framework. The discussion on crime in the state is a long awaited conversation, the City of Grants have approved a number of purchases to bolster their police force to improve the effectiveness of their law enforcement officers, and hold regular community discussions on crime impacts in the community.