New Mexico Sun

News from February 2025


Sen. Steinborn on waste cleanup: We're 'adding $50 million to the state budget to clean up abandoned uranium mine sites'

New Mexico is allocating $50 million to its state budget for the cleanup of abandoned uranium mines and other contaminated sites, according to State Senator Jeff Steinborn.


New Mexico Senate committee approves climate measures amid opposition

On February 8, 2025, the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico (IPANM), along with the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association (NMOGA) and the New Mexico Business Coalition, expressed strong opposition to Senate Bills 48 and 49.


Trade groups oppose SB4 Clean Horizons Act citing economic concerns

A coalition of New Mexico trade associations has expressed strong opposition to the proposed SB4 Clean Horizons Act in a letter addressed to Senator Mimi Stewart, President Pro Tempore of the New Mexico State Senate.


New Mexico's Community Benefit Fund advances with Senate committee approval

The Senate Conservation Committee in New Mexico has approved the Community Benefit Fund, comprising Senate Bills 48 and 49, with a vote of 5-3.


House committee approves Medicaid Forward Program amid financial concerns

The House Health and Human Services Committee has recommended the Medicaid Forward Program, HB 186, with a do-pass vote of 6-4.


New Mexico legislators propose bills impacting oil, gas industry in 2025 session

During the 2025 New Mexico Legislative Session, legislators are proposing bills that could impact the oil and gas industry significantly.


Tribes seek compensation for cultural service losses in Ninth Circuit court case

The Nez Perce Tribe, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, and Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, along with the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), have...


New Mexico lawmakers discuss abandoned uranium mine cleanup plans

New Mexico legislators and representatives from the New Mexico Environment Department announced discussions on initiating the cleanup of abandoned uranium mines and other contaminated sites, including Senate Bill 260, on February 7.


Queer advocates prepare for busy legislative week amid ongoing challenges

Week three at the Roundhouse was described as the most eventful so far by EQNM's staff and fellows, who are actively advocating for the Queer and Trans community this legislative session.


Venezuelan immigrants seek court intervention against transfer to Guantanamo

Three Venezuelan immigrants detained in New Mexico have sought a temporary restraining order from a federal district court to prevent their transfer to Guantánamo Bay.


OPINION: The New Progressive Playbook: Making Their Own Constituents the Boogeyman

Progressives in New Mexico have always been off the mark when it comes to solving our crime crisis in New Mexico.


Trump administration reverses offshore drilling ban

The Trump administration has moved to resume liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and reverse a ban on offshore drilling.


City Council approves $30M bonds for NM United stadium

The Albuquerque City Council has given the green light for $30 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds to support the financing of a new stadium for the New Mexico United soccer team.


New Mexico advances Community Benefit Fund focused on clean energy transition

The Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is advancing its efforts to provide opportunities for families and communities in New Mexico.


Proposed greenhouse gas limits spark economic concerns

Senate Bill 4, which proposes statewide greenhouse gas emissions limits, is currently under review by the Senate Finance Committee.


Rep. Block on AG Bondi’s order to pause funding to sanctuary cities: ‘No sanctuary for criminals’

John Block, a New Mexico State Representative, expressed gratitude to Attorney General Pam Bondi for her decision to pause federal funding to sanctuary cities.


Rep. Cortez on H.B. 35: This bill 'would force the oil and gas industry out'

Elaine Sena-Cortez, a New Mexico state representative, said that GOP House committee members have criticized House Bill 35 (H.B. 35) as a restriction on the state's oil and gas operations.


Rep. Reeb: ‘Proud to collaborate with DA Bregman on commonsense reforms to New Mexico's juvenile code’

Andrea Reeb, a New Mexico state representative, announced her intention to introduce a bipartisan bill aimed at reforming the juvenile justice system.


Sen. Brantley on cell tower bill SB51: It will 'improve the lives and safety of all New Mexicans in the borderlands'

Crystal Brantley, State Senator for New Mexico's District 35, announced her bill aimed at expanding telecommunications infrastructure to enhance public safety and connectivity in the state's border counties.


NMSSA director on bill SB 279: It infringes 'Second Amendment rights of legal New Mexicans'

Anthony Segura, Executive Director of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association (NMSSA), expressed concerns regarding Senate Bill 279 (SB 279), stating it would ban most semi-automatic firearms in New Mexico and infringe on Second Amendment rights.