The Community Benefit Fund (CBF) is advancing its efforts to provide opportunities for families and communities in New Mexico. The fund, which allocates $340 million, focuses on projects that prioritize pollution reduction, grid reliability, renewable energy expansion, workforce training, and community resilience. It aims to equip communities with the resources needed to design and implement initiatives that address their specific needs.

Senate Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) stated, “The Clear Horizons Act and its accompanying legislation represent an opportunity for New Mexico to lead once again in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilient communities.” She added that the CBF gives New Mexicans tools to invest in their future amidst increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.

In 2024, New Mexico spent nearly $150 million on emergency funds due to climate-fueled disasters such as wildfires, floods, and extreme droughts. The Clear Horizons Act seeks a proactive approach to climate action through the Community Benefit Fund and Innovation in Government Act.

“This package of bills is more than just legislation—it’s a commitment to the people of New Mexico,” Senator Stewart emphasized. “We have the resources and the vision to secure a thriving future for every community.”

Senator Angel Charley (D-Acoma) expressed support by saying, “We must commit to being aspirational. The future we want for our children does not have to differ from our most audacious hopes.”

Senate Bill 48 (CBF) and Senate Bill 49 (CBF appropriations) both passed out of the Senate Conservation Committee with votes of 5-3. They will be heard next in the Senate Finance Committee alongside the companion Clear Horizons Act (Senate Bill 4).

For more information about these legislative efforts, visit www.clearhorizonsnm.org.