New Mexico Sun


Fall gathering celebrates perseverance with awards and music

The annual fall gathering took place on October 16 at the First Unitarian Church in Albuquerque. The event's theme was "Persevering in Beauty and Joy!" It featured a series of awards, musical performances, and special recognitions.


New Mexico DOJ rules against restrictions on virtual attendance at public meetings

The New Mexico Department of Justice (NMDOJ) has issued a ruling that public bodies holding meetings under the Open Meetings Act (OMA) cannot impose restrictive requirements on virtual attendees. This decision was announced in an opinion released on October 17, 2024.


City partners with APS for 2024 Fentanyl Forum

The Keep NM Alive collaborative is organizing an event focused on addressing the fentanyl crisis.


New Mexico opens applications for small local public body assistance program

The New Mexico Office of the State Auditor (OSA) has announced the opening of applications for its Small Local Public Body (sLPB) Assistance Program. This program aims to support small entities in New Mexico with financial regulations, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.


Governor launches anti-litter campaign with Bryan Cranston reprising role as Walter White

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced a new anti-litter initiative in collaboration with actor Bryan Cranston, who will reprise his role as Walter White from the television series "Breaking Bad." The campaign aims to reduce litter across New Mexico and includes various promotional materials such as television ads, billboards, and social media content.


Chamber members tour UNM's The Pit during 'Shakers and Stirrers' event

The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a "Shakers and Stirrers" event on October 12, providing members with an exclusive tour of The Pit at the University of New Mexico.


New Mexico ends temporary firearm restrictions as key components transition under MOUs

A public health order in New Mexico that temporarily restricted firearms and enhanced drug monitoring has expired, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced. The order, which was implemented in response to gun violence and substance misuse, will not be renewed.


Immigrants' rights groups oppose ICE detention facility expansion in New Mexico

New Mexico immigrants' rights advocates have expressed strong opposition to plans by the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) to increase immigration detention capacity in New Mexico and other states. The proposal involves expanding existing facilities in Cibola and Torrance counties and utilizing the Lea County Correctional Facility, a private prison not currently used for federal immigration custody.


Guidelines issued ahead of New Mexico's expanded early voting period

Expanded early voting in New Mexico's 33 counties is set to begin on October 19, with early polling locations closing on November 2. As the November 5 Election Day nears, officials from the Attorney General and the New Mexico Secretary of State’s office are prepared to address any obstruction or misinformation at polling places and absentee ballot counting stations.


Flags at half-staff in New Mexico for Sen. John Arthur Smith

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has directed that all flags in New Mexico be flown at half-staff to honor former state senator John Arthur Smith, who died on October 7. The flags will remain lowered from sunrise on October 18 until sundown on October 21.


New Mexico prepares comprehensive measures ahead of general election

New Mexico is preparing for its general election with a focus on ensuring the integrity and security of the voting process. Common Cause New Mexico has outlined measures to safeguard the election, emphasizing voter eligibility and ballot security.


New Mexico voters to decide on healthcare funding and education bond

As the November 5 election approaches, New Mexico voters will decide on two significant measures: the University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) mill levy and GO Bond 3 for Higher Education.


Domenici criticizes Heinrich's record during televised debate

In a televised debate on KOAT-TV, Republican senatorial candidate Nella Domenici and Democrat incumbent Martin Heinrich discussed key issues affecting New Mexico. The debate covered topics such as inflation, drug overdoses, abortion limits, immigration, education, and energy.


LGBTQ advocates condemn use of trans issues in election campaigns

The LGBTQ community has expressed concern over being used as a tool to influence voters during the 2024 election season. This issue is highlighted by Equality New Mexico (EQNM), which criticizes conservative strategies that portray trans people negatively to drive voter turnout.


Small business owners discuss rising costs at Albuquerque roundtable

NFIB New Mexico State Director Jason Espinoza recently hosted a roundtable discussion for small business owners at the Mechanical Contractors Association of New Mexico in Albuquerque. The event provided an opportunity for local entrepreneurs to connect, discuss the upcoming 2025 Legislative Session, and explore policy solutions addressing the increasing cost of health insurance.


Governor Lujan Grisham commemorates Indigenous Peoples' Day with celebratory statement

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham marked Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a statement celebrating the contributions and resilience of Indigenous communities in New Mexico and across the nation. The day, established as a state holiday by Gov. Lujan Grisham in 2019, is observed annually on the second Monday of October.


Bernalillo County launches mobile health clinics for schools with partners

Bernalillo County has joined forces with Wellness Equity Alliance and Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) to launch "Health Yeah!," a new initiative featuring mobile health clinics.


Debate continues over fairness of tax contributions from wealthy Americans

The debate over whether the wealthy pay their fair share of taxes continues to be a contentious issue in the United States.


Concerns rise over Heinrich and Vasquez's support for green policies

Democratic Senator Martin Heinrich and Representative Gabe Vasquez have come under scrutiny for their support of green energy policies, which some argue could compromise America's energy independence. Their opposition to domestic oil and gas production, particularly in New Mexico, raises concerns about increased reliance on foreign oil from countries like Russia and Venezuela.


Albuquerque Reads seeks volunteers for elementary school tutoring

Albuquerque Reads, a program initiated by the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, is actively seeking volunteers to join their team of tutors.