Business on the New Mexico Senate Floor proceeded this Monday morning, following an opening led by Taos High School’s Mariachi El Tigre to commemorate Taos County Day.
The Senate considered several bills, including Senate Bill 45, which aims to support individuals who are not eligible for Medicaid but require assistance with Marketplace health insurance costs. Counties have the option to participate in this initiative. The Health Care Assistance Fund, financed by up to 0.1875% of each county’s Taxable Gross Receipts, will help cover insurance premiums and out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for those facing severe financial hardship. Counties can allocate money from their Health Care Assistance Funds as they see fit among authorized expenditures under the Act.
"In New Mexico, we hold a longstanding tradition of helping our neighbors where we can, when we can," said Senate Bill 45 sponsor Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-Las Cruces). "This legislation sets up the funds and framework counties need to create health care ecosystems tailored to communities’ unique needs."
Other business discussed included:
- Senate Bill 155 regarding the determination of embezzlement penalty passed unanimously with a vote of 41-0.
- Senate Bill 53 concerning prescribing psychologist psychotropics passed with a vote of 38-1.
- Senate Bill 290 proposing an increase in marriage license fees passed with a vote of 27-11.
- Senate Bill 168 related to the Travel Insurance Act passed unanimously with a vote of 42-0.
- Senate Bill 170 addressing NMFA definitions, funds, and rates passed unanimously with a vote of 32-0.
Additionally, Senate Joint Resolution 15 regarding an appointed State Board of Education passed with a vote of 27-15.
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