Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham addressed business leaders at the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce's Mid-Session Report to the Business Community luncheon, held on February 26 in Albuquerque. With the New Mexico Legislature currently in session, discussions focused on economic growth and public safety.
Terri Cole, president and CEO of GACC, highlighted the state's strong revenue performance, mentioning a projected $1 billion budget surplus. However, she noted that New Mexico's economic growth outside of oil and gas remains sluggish. Cole emphasized the need for lawmakers to create policies that foster a competitive economy: “The Chamber’s primary goal this session is to encourage lawmakers – in the policy they pass and the budget they create – to position our state to better compete for new businesses, workers, residents and visitors.”
Cole outlined key goals for the Chamber, including making New Mexico safer, reducing tax burdens on businesses and families, improving public schools, and attracting healthcare professionals. She acknowledged Governor Lujan Grisham's efforts in pushing for public safety legislation: “She deserves credit for pushing them to the brink by calling the July special session.”
The Democratic majorities have advanced a crime package addressing criminal competency statutes and increasing penalties related to fentanyl involvement and auto theft. A behavioral health trust fund has also been established. However, Cole called for further action: “We want the juvenile crime crisis addressed... expand racketeering crimes... substantially increase sentences... add pretrial detention requiring felons to be held in custody pending trial.”
Despite positive developments, Cole expressed concern over excessive regulation of the oil and gas industry: “In 40 years, I’ve never seen a Legislature more focused on excessive taxation.” She advocated for expanding energy production across various sources.
Del Esparza introduced Governor Lujan Grisham at the event attended by over 300 community leaders. The governor spoke about her decision to call special sessions: “I have... called many special sessions... When you have such wild swings at the federal level...” She highlighted challenges with crime and public safety in New Mexico: “It is all of our faults... we’re not seeing it in other places.”
Lujan Grisham addressed youth crime issues: “We lose kids in New Mexico to guns,” she said. The governor also pointed out problems within New Mexico's court system due to dismissed cases based on competency.
Finally, Lujan Grisham mentioned possible redirection of funds from large investment pools like early childhood funds towards Medicaid if necessary: "I’m prepared for the worst of it."
New Leadership Circle investors were recognized during this event including Waste Management among others.
More than 300 guests attended this significant gathering at Uptown Sheraton Albuquerque featuring Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on February 26.
