Ariana Marmolejo Regional Communications Strategist (West) | Common Cause New Mexico
The New Mexico 2025 legislative session concluded with notable developments in lobbying reform and electoral access, while other reforms did not progress. Senate Bill 85 and Senate Joint Resolution 1 were among the significant proposals aimed at improving governance. SJR 1 sought to establish legislative salaries for a more representative legislature, and SB 85 targeted campaign finance loopholes to prioritize public needs over special interests.
Key achievements this session included House Bill 143, which introduced major lobbying reforms by mandating increased lobbyist disclosures for enhanced accountability. House Joint Resolution 2 aims to improve transparency by eliminating the governor's pocket veto power, requiring explanations for any vetoed legislation. This resolution will be presented to voters in 2026.
Senate Bill 5 focused on modernizing wildlife management in the state to boost transparency and efficacy within the department. Additionally, Senate Bill 16 established semi-open primaries, allowing over 330,000 independent voters to participate in taxpayer-funded primary elections.
Mason Graham of Common Cause New Mexico emphasized the importance of investing in democracy: "Right now, the most important thing we can do is invest in our state’s democracy to ensure that it stays healthy and accessible to everyone for years to come." Graham acknowledged the wins achieved but noted ongoing efforts are needed amid federal instability: "While this legislative session saw some important wins, our work to improve our state democracy continues as its urgency increases."
Graham further highlighted New Mexico's proactive stance: "We have the privilege in New Mexico of doing proactive legislative work... Now is the time to invest in our collective futures through meaningful, pro-democracy reform." Common Cause New Mexico plans continued collaboration with legislators on strengthening democracy.
