Del Archuleta Education BIG Chair Molzen-Corbin & Associates | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (GACC) recently conducted its annual DC Fly-In, where 12 delegates traveled to Washington, D.C., for a three-day visit. The group engaged in meetings with New Mexico's congressional delegation and policy experts while also taking the opportunity to explore some of the city's landmarks.
The meetings began on December 11 with Senator Martin Heinrich, who discussed several pressing issues such as public safety, homelessness, artificial intelligence, and the Inflation Reduction Act. Heinrich emphasized his office's efforts to combat fentanyl through permanent drug scheduling, enhanced border technology, and targeting manufacturing sites in Mexico. He stated, "If people don’t feel safe and secure, they can’t think about anything else." Heinrich also expressed support for Albuquerque’s Gateway Center as a no-barrier shelter.
Following this meeting was a luncheon with Representative Gabe Vasquez. Vasquez highlighted the need for improved border security technology and advocated for humane policies for farm workers in New Mexico. He mentioned collaboration with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on public safety reforms slated for introduction in the 2025 legislative session.
Representative Melanie Stansbury addressed the GACC group next. She focused on behavioral health funding and coordination between state and federal law enforcement against fentanyl. Stansbury remarked on the potential chaotic transition of power in D.C., noting concerns from constituents about job security.
On December 12, Mark Zientek from Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez's office provided insights into their ongoing projects, including reviving legislation related to radiation exposure compensation and securing funds for various community needs.
Additional discussions were held with officials from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce regarding workforce issues and immigration policy updates. Meetings also took place with scholars from the American Enterprise Institute on topics such as government continuity and housing challenges specific to Albuquerque.
Starlee Coleman from the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools shared perspectives on education policy during her session with the delegation. She noted broad national support for charter schools based on recent polling data.
Apart from these engagements, delegates visited cultural sites like the National Museum of African American History & Culture and dined at notable local restaurants.
Participants included Del Esparza (Chairman of the Board), Peter Lorenz (Chair-Elect), Leean Kravitz (Chairman of Federal Government Affairs), Sherman McCorkle (Chair of Legislative Session), Tom Jenkins (Chair Economic Development Teams), Scott Hindman (Chair Public Safety BIG), Kellie Mixon (GACC Treasurer), Joanie Griffin (Board Member), Aimee Barabe (Director at New Mexico Gas Co).
