Michael Padilla, Majority Whip | Senate Democrats
The New Mexico Senate has confirmed two significant appointments and passed several legislative bills during its session on March 10, 2025. Secretary Kenderdine received praise for her leadership in natural resource management. Senate Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) commented on the confirmation, stating, “When industry experts and federal regulators work with Secretary Kenderdine, they know they are working with a nationally renowned leader in natural resource management.” Stewart added, “New Mexico is immensely fortunate to have Secretary Kenderdine at the helm during this crucial moment in determining our climate future.”
Elizabeth "Liz" Anderson was unanimously confirmed as the 25th State Engineer of New Mexico. With over 25 years of experience in civil and environmental engineering, Anderson becomes the first woman to hold this position. She emphasized her commitment to being a good neighbor to other states sharing stream systems with New Mexico while prioritizing the state's needs. In her confirmation hearing, she stated, “I’ll continue to work with the skilled professionals on staff at the Office of State Engineer and Interstate Stream Commission to maintain a competitive and highly technical workforce across the agency.”
The Senate also discussed Senate Bill 45, which aims to support individuals not eligible for Medicaid but needing assistance with Marketplace health insurance costs. The bill allows counties to opt-in and use their Health Care Assistance Fund to help those experiencing severe financial hardship by covering insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-Las Cruces), who sponsored the bill, remarked, “In New Mexico, we hold a longstanding tradition of helping our neighbors where we can, when we can.”
Other business included passing several bills: Senate Bill 155 regarding embezzlement penalties passed unanimously; Senate Bill 53 concerning prescribing psychologist psychotropics passed with one dissenting vote; Senate Bill 290 raising marriage license fees passed; Senate Bill 168 known as the Travel Insurance Act passed without opposition; Senate Bill 170 related to NMFA definitions, funds & rates passed; and Senate Joint Resolution 15 about an appointed state board of education also passed.
