New Mexico Sun

News from March 2025


State Sen. Brantley on youth violence and accountability: 'New Mexicans are sick of the crime rate'

Crystal Brantley, a State Senator for District 35, emphasized the need for stronger juvenile justice laws in New Mexico to hold violent youth offenders accountable and protect communities.


Community Benefit Fund passes House; awaits Governor’s approval

Pro Tem Mimi Stewart's Senate Bill 48, designed to invest directly in local projects that create jobs and support communities affected by climate change, has passed the House of Representatives.


New Mexico groups commend federal delegation's stance on waste emissions charge

The Senate has passed a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution with a 52-47 vote, which may lead to confusion for operators.


New Mexico allocates $1.6M for job training, benefiting 119 workers

The New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) has announced the approval of $1.6 million in funding to support job training initiatives for nine companies.


New Mexico legislature passes bill promoting innovation in government

The New Mexico legislature has passed Senate Bill 83, known as the Innovation in State Government Fund, which now awaits the governor's approval.


State Rep. Block: 'Violent pro-Hamas' protester was arrested and removed from the Capitol for trespassing

John Block, a representative for New Mexico's House District 51, said that a pro-Hamas protester, identified as Elliott Shawn Vigil, was arrested after being "removed from the Capitol for trespassing" and using racial slurs.


State Rep. Cortez on double taxation of retirees: 'Most people were already taxed in their working years'

Elaine Cortez, a New Mexico State Representative, has voiced concerns regarding the taxation of Social Security income, arguing that it imposes an unfair burden on retirees who have already contributed to the system.


State Rep. Cortez on officer protections: 'We make it so easy for them to be sued'

Elaine Cortez, a State Representative for New Mexico District 62, expressed concerns regarding the removal of qualified immunity and its impact on police recruitment and morale across New Mexico.


State Rep. Cortez on fentanyl traffickers: 'You are essentially taking a life'

Elaine Cortez, a State Representative for New Mexico's District 62, has called for life sentences for fentanyl traffickers due to the drug's deadly impact on residents of New Mexico.


New Mexico offers free high school equivalency exams under new legislation

New Mexico has become the fifth state in the United States to offer free high school equivalency exams.


State partners with Alzheimer's Association for New Mexico community forums

This spring, the state of New Mexico is collaborating with the Alzheimer's Association to conduct a series of community forums throughout the region.


Albuquerque man pleads guilty to federal drug charges; faces up to life in prison

An Albuquerque man, Jerry Bezie, has admitted guilt to federal charges of drug trafficking and firearms possession.


Michigan tribes withdraw from Line 5 tunnel talks amid fast-tracking concerns

Six Michigan tribes have withdrawn from federal discussions regarding the Line 5 oil tunnel project, expressing concerns over the US Army Corps of Engineers' potential fast-tracking of the project's approval.


New Mexico's economic development department hosts webinar on future state plans

The New Mexico Economic Development Department (NMEDD) is set to host a webinar on March 26 at 1 p.m. to present its updated Empower & Collaborate State Economic Development Plan.


Arts & Culture: Bach’s Birthday in Santa Fe—Organist, David Solem

Since a kid in Jr. High, J.S. Bach has loomed large in my world. It may be hearing his music in church had something to do with it.


ABQ BioPark earns certified autism center status from IBCCES

The ABQ BioPark has achieved the distinction of being named a Certified Autism Center, marking a first for Albuquerque.


Governor Lujan Grisham vetoes unanimously approved parole reform bill

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has vetoed Senate Bill 17, known as the New Mexico Parole Board Modernization Act.


Public safety coalition calls for further legislative action in New Mexico

As the 2025 New Mexico Legislative Session concludes, a coalition of community organizations has expressed mixed feelings about the progress made on public safety legislation.


Governor calls for action after Las Cruces shooting amid unfinished legislative work

At the close of a 60-day legislative session, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted both achievements and significant gaps in public safety measures.


New Mexico legislature passes bill on caregiver accountability

House Bill 131, which aims to enhance caregiver accountability in New Mexico, is now awaiting the governor's approval.