The New Mexico Senate recently held a session on March 6, 2025, addressing several key legislative measures. Among the topics discussed were domestic violence, pipeline safety, climate change, telecommunications access, and other pressing issues.
Senator López highlighted the importance of keeping issues like domestic violence and sexual violence at the forefront. “What is currently happening, and what continues to happen, should remind us that we still have to keep this at the forefront as to how we deal with issues of domestic violence, sexual violence, bullying, and all of the others issues that contribute to how we look at and portray women in our society, especially those who need help,” stated Sen. López.
The Senate passed Senate Bill 9 with a vote of 26-14. Sponsored by Senator Bill Soules (D-Las Cruces), this bill updates civil penalties for violations under the Pipeline Safety Act to align with federal guidelines. “Currently any violations of the Pipeline Safety Act in the state of New Mexico have a maximum penalty of $100,000 per day, or $1 million total. This bill would strike that and make it so that all penalties will be subject to the maximum allowed at the federal level. Currently that maximum would be $200,000 a day, or $2 million total,” explained Senator Soules.
Senate Bill 83 was also introduced by Senators Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) and Heather Berghmans (D-Albuquerque). This bill aims to protect New Mexico’s environment by establishing an Innovation in State Government Fund with an initial funding of ten million dollars from the General Fund. “We can either give our state the tools to tackle climate challenges head-on, or we can keep playing catch-up while New Mexicans pay the price in droughts, floods, fires, and rising costs,” said Senate Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart.
Additionally discussed was Senate Bill 126 sponsored by Senator Michael Padilla (D-Albuquerque), which seeks to increase funding for broadband access through the State Rural Universal Service Fund’s Broadband Program. “New Mexico is a leader in broadband expansion efforts,” said Senator Padilla.
Other business included passing Senate Bill 100 regarding indebtedness limits for Arroyo Flood Control (37-0) and Senate Bill 70/a adding racketeering crimes (38-0).
The annual Hoops4Hope charity basketball game between the Senate Lobos and House Aggies was canceled due to weather concerns. The fundraiser supports the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.
