The New Mexico House has approved Senate Bill 3, a significant piece of legislation aimed at overhauling the state's behavioral health system. After three hours of debate and an attempted amendment, the bill was sent back to the Senate for concurrence with a vote of 44-23. The amendments made in the House necessitate agreement from both chambers on the same version before it can progress.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth and Senate Minority Leader Bill Sharer have collaborated on SB 3 to establish a new infrastructure focused on local needs, accountability, and measurement. This bill is part of a legislative package including Senate Bills 1 and 2. SB 1 proposes a $1 billion trust fund for long-term funding, while SB 2 addresses specific appropriations within the budget bill.
Rep. Rebecca Dow introduced an amendment suggesting that the Health Care Authority should coordinate regional committees' startup instead of the Administrative Office of the Courts. Despite extensive debate, her proposal was tabled by a vote of 39-28.
In another development, Senate Bill 186 was presented by Peter Wirth to prevent "tax lightning" on multifamily housing units. J.D. Bullington from the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce advocated for this measure: "If multifamily property valuation is immediately brought to current and correct levels, there will be tax lightning striking all over the state." Sen. Debbie O’Malley expressed concerns about industry advocacy but ultimately voted for it along with others, passing it with a 9-1 vote.
Furthermore, Senate Bill 289 regarding Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Distributions was discussed in committee without immediate voting action. Sponsored by Sen. Bobby Gonzales, this bill aims to allocate more funds towards road maintenance and improvements.
As New Mexico's legislative session reaches its midpoint, no new bills can be introduced beyond this point except through generic "dummy bills," which serve as placeholders for urgent issues arising after deadlines.
The Roundhouse also features a vast collection of artwork thanks to efforts by Capitol Arts Foundation since its inception in 1991—now boasting over six hundred pieces valued at $6 million representing contemporary New Mexican artists.
The session continues with numerous bills still under consideration; only two have passed both chambers so far while many await further discussion or decision-making processes like conference committees if necessary due to differing amendments between houses.
