The joint resolution to modernize New Mexico’s legislature to establish salaries for elected leaders (HJR 5), passed the Senate and now heads to the voters to decide this November.  

Championed by Common Cause and introduced by Reps. Cristina Parajón and Angelica Rubio, HJR 5 triggers a ballot measure asking voters to do away with a ban on legislative compensation. New Mexico is the only state in the nation that does not pay its legislators a salary, and Common Cause has been leading the charge for years to compensate leaders for their work.

Statement of Common Cause’s New Mexico Executive Director Molly Swank:   

“For too long, lack of pay has blocked everyday New Mexicans from running for office and representing their communities, from working families, caregivers, rural and Tribal communities, and young leaders. 

That vacuum creates space for moneyed interests to wield outsized influence in the Roundhouse and with legislators, putting their needs before the needs of the people. That’s why Common Cause has fought for years to ensure regular people can afford to serve the public. Now, the choice is up to New Mexicans.”