Doug Majewski Downtown Transformation BIG Chair Hartman+Majewski Design Group | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee has unanimously advanced House Bill 86, aimed at combating human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children. Sponsored by Representatives Elizabeth "Liz" Thomson, Marian Matthews, Nicole Chavez, and Senator Antoinette Sedillo Lopez, the bill received a 5-0 vote to proceed without opposition. Thomson noted this is her fifth attempt to pass the bill, which often stalls in Senate committees.
D'Val Westphal from the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce testified in support, emphasizing the need for protecting vulnerable individuals: "The Chamber strongly supports HB 86 and thanks the sponsors for bringing it forward. This bill is all about protecting some of the most vulnerable people who wind up in our state."
Rob Hart, an expert witness for Thomson and Matthews, highlighted that human trafficking generates more revenue for cartels than drugs like fentanyl. He also mentioned Albuquerque's significant number of human stash houses.
House Bill 87 also passed with a 6-0 vote. Sponsored by Majority Whip Dayan Hochman-Vigil, it updates laws on criminal sexual contact where victims are clothed. Westphal stated: "HB 87 has the strong support of the Chamber... This amendment would update New Mexico’s definition of 'criminal sexual contact' to allow more assaulters to face penalties."
In other legislative actions, House Bill 35 regarding oil and gas setbacks moved forward with a party-line vote but without recommendation. Proponents argue it's necessary for children's health due to increased respiratory diseases linked to proximity to wells.
Two Senate bills aiming to redirect funds into road infrastructure were discussed but not voted on. J.D. Bullington supported these efforts, saying: “Good roads are key to economic development, tourism and safety.”
Senate Finance Committee discussions included behavioral health legislation aimed at creating a trust fund and addressing system gaps. Clovis Mayor Mike Morris presented plans for a regional behavioral health treatment center.
Capital outlay reforms were proposed to address $5.8 billion in unspent funds across over 1,000 projects.
The legislative session continues with upcoming discussions on school principal development and rural healthcare expansion among other topics.
