Michael Padilla, Majority Whip | Senate Democrats
The New Mexico Senate has approved Senate Bill 83, which establishes the Innovation in State Government Fund. This initiative allocates $10 million to help state agencies address climate challenges, advance clean energy, and protect public health. The bill aims to expand agency capacity by providing key departments such as the Environment Department and Energy, Minerals & Natural Resources Department with necessary workforce and technology resources.
The legislation also seeks to promote a resilient economy by supporting a transition to industries that offer good-paying jobs and reduce reliance on extractive industries. Additionally, it focuses on strengthening pollution monitoring through enhanced data collection and emissions tracking, while ensuring accountability by requiring agencies to report on their progress.
Currently, New Mexico's agencies responsible for managing pollution and implementing clean energy solutions lack sufficient resources to enforce existing regulations or utilize available federal funding fully. Senate Bill 83 emphasizes the importance of integrating climate considerations into agency budgets, enabling proactive measures against environmental challenges.
“This is about ensuring New Mexico stays on track to meet our climate goals while equipping our communities for the challenges ahead,” stated Senator Heather Berghmans (D-Albuquerque). “With this funding, we can give state agencies the tools to track progress, support community resilience, and drive innovation—ensuring working families and businesses thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
Senator Harold Pope Jr. expressed his concerns during discussions on the Senate Floor: “We should all be concerned. Our young people are constantly asking us ‘what are we doing?’ We should try to leave this world a better place for them. In fact, there needs to be more money in this bill for our agencies to do something. Let’s step up to lead as New Mexicans, and let’s step up to the challenge. Younger generations are looking to us to step up.”
Following its passage in the Senate with a vote of 26-14, SB 83 will proceed to the House for further consideration. The funding outlined in the bill is already included in House Bill 2, which forms part of the state budget.
For additional details, visit www.clearhorizonsnm.org.
