Peter Wirth, Majority Floor Leader | Senate Democrats
Senate Bill 481 has introduced a new Tax Increment Development District named the State Fairgrounds District in Albuquerque. The bill aims to rejuvenate New Mexico's state fairgrounds by establishing a seven-member board responsible for overseeing its economic development. Seventy-five percent of the gross receipts generated within this district will be retained to finance infrastructure projects. The district includes notable sites such as the Albuquerque Downs Racetrack and Casino, with provisions for purchasing additional property southwest of the current fairgrounds.
"Like so many New Mexicans, I have great memories from the state fair, which has been hosted in the same spot dating back to 1938," stated Senate Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque). "However, it’s no secret that our state fairgrounds need serious work. Senate Bill 481 makes sure Albuquerque has the resources we need to redevelop this area, and that we have a team in place to help envision the next chapter for these historic grounds."
House Bill 143, which passed with a vote of 22-15, is now awaiting Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's signature. This bill mandates lobbyists to submit a "lobbying activity report" within 48 hours of any lobbying related to introduced legislation. The report must detail the legislation being lobbied, positions held by both lobbyists and their employers on said legislation, and employer names. This measure aligns with national trends aimed at increasing transparency about lobbying activities.
"Since my first days as a legislator here in the Roundhouse I have felt that New Mexicans, and especially those who live far away from Santa Fe like me, have never gotten a full picture of what is happening during the legislative session," remarked House Bill 143 sponsor Senator Jeff Steinborn (D-Las Cruces). "This is a transparency tool that will help every New Mexican...know who is trying to influence your duly elected legislator."
House Bill 12 seeks to facilitate law enforcement's ability to temporarily suspend firearm access for individuals deemed threats under New Mexico’s Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order or “Red Flag Law.” This bill simplifies processes for both law enforcement and citizens to enhance public safety measures.
"When people are in crisis and not in a position to make clear decisions, removing firearms from the situation will help keep them and those around them safe," commented Senator Katy Duhigg (D – Albuquerque), one of House Bill 12's senate sponsors. "By empowering law enforcement...our red flag law prioritizes public safety and mental health."
Recent confirmations include John V. Wertheim as Member of Western New Mexico University Board of Regents (34-0), Keana Richelle Huerta as Student Member (35-0), and Joseph Dean Reed as Member (37-0).
Other legislative actions saw several bills pass: Senate Bill 278 on coronary artery calcium screening insurance (24-15), Senate Bill 305 establishing a quality foster parent task force (34-2), Senate Bill 138 eliminating cholesterol-lowering drug cost-sharing (22-11), House Bill 357 concerning Mi Via Waiver Program provider gross receipts (33-0), House Bill 233 on diabetic foot ulcer equipment coverage (33-0), House Bill 218 addressing tax changes (30-4), and House Bill 197 expanding "Silver Alert" definitions (37-0).
