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Modernization measure passes first committee with bipartisan support!
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House Government Elections and Indian Affairs Committee met this morning and passed two constitutional amendments related to government structural reforms.
Sponsored by Rep. Matthew McQueen
This resolution would ask voters to eliminate the governor’s right to “pocket veto” legislation. Currently, if the governor neither signs, nor vetoes legislation by the deadline, the legislation is automatically pocket vetoed without the governor being required to explain why he or she did not sign the bill into law. Common Cause New Mexico supports HJR 2 because it would add transparency and accountability so that legislators and the public understand the reasons behind the governor’s actions.
HJR 2 passed HGEIAC on an 8-to-1 vote, and moves to House Judiciary Committee.
Sponsored by Rep. Matthew McQueen
This resolution would change the current structure for session length from 30 days in even-numbered years and 60 days in odd-numbered years, to 45 days every year. It would also allow any subject matter to be heard each year. Currently in the 30-day sessions, only budgetary matters, resolutions, memorials, and bills that receive a message from the governor are heard. It would also allow bills to carry over from one session to the next within the biennium.
While we appreciate this resolution and its intent, we do not support HJR 1 for a few reasons. First, we must establish an independent salaries commission to set salaries for legislators before considering any changes to session length. Second, we do not feel that two 45-day sessions are adequate. We would strongly advocate for two 60-day sessions, once we have a system in place to fairly compensate legislators. It is inappropriate and would further exacerbate inequities in the legislature to require lawmakers to serve more days in an unpaid post.
HJR 1 passed HGEIAC on a 6-3 vote and moves to House Judiciary Committee to be heard next.
Sponsored by Rep. Reena Szczepanski
The feed fill is the first bill of the legislative session and funds the legislature’s work. This year, modernization got an early win in the feed bill with staffing for legislators receiving double the funding of last year’s initial allotment. Professional district legislative staff are an essential tenet of modernization and help ensure legislators are able to provide constituent services, research policy, and remain active in their communities. This increase in funding will help ensure legislators can hire and retain qualified district staff!
Sponsored by Sen. Natalie Figueroa, Sen. Peter Wirth, Rep. Joy Garratt, Rep. Angelica Rubio, and Sen. Katy M. Duhigg
We are very optimistic that SJR 1 will be heard by the Senate Rules Committee next week. Please take a moment to let your senator know that you wholeheartedly support SJR 1 using our quick action email, particularly if they serve on SRC or Senate Finance Committees.
You may also email written public comments in advance of the hearing directly to the Senate Rules Committee at SRC.zoom@nmlegis.gov.
SJR 1 is Common Cause New Mexico’s top priority for the session. It would add a question to the 2026 general election ballot asking voters if they approve of amending the state constitution to allow for legislators to receive compensation and create an independent citizens commission to set legislative salaries. New Mexico is the ONLY state in the nation that does not pay its legislators a salary, and it leaves us at a disadvantage. Currently only the rich, retired, or extremely resourceful have the means to serve in office, leaving out the voices of everyday New Mexicans. Providing legislators with a livable wage is essential to create a more reflective democracy.
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