Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has enacted a series of legislative measures designed to enhance access to education and workforce development in New Mexico. Signing six bills into law, the governor aims to support adult education, expand loan-repayment initiatives, and remove economic obstacles for individuals pursuing a high school equivalency certificate in the state.
"With the signing of these bills, New Mexico solidifies its place as a leader in higher education access and adult education support,” noted Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “We are making education more accessible and affordable, empowering our workforce and positioning our state at the forefront of innovation. Every student and prospective student has the chance to thrive and flourish right here in New Mexico."
Key pieces of legislation include:
House Bill 24, backed by Senator Leo Jaramillo and Representative Miguel P. Garcia, introduces the Community Governance Attorney and Conditional Tuition Waiver Program. This bill lays down regulations for the program, offering a living stipend and seeking grants and donations to ensure its sustainability.
House Bill 69, sponsored by Representative Joy Garratt and Senator Leo Jaramillo, known as the Loan Forgiveness Multiplier Act, establishes a method for postsecondary institutions to define full-time employment for adjunct and contingent faculty. It sets a multiplier for credit hours and facilitates the certification of employment for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
House Bill 89, led by Representatives Dayan Hochman-Vigil and Patricia Roybal Caballero, provides changes to the Graduate Scholarship Act. The adjustments increase flexibility and award amounts for New Mexico residents seeking graduate degrees, particularly those from financially challenged backgrounds or underrepresented groups.
House Bill 167, moved by Representatives Joy Garratt, E. Diane Torres-Velásquez and Senator Nicole Tobiassen, positions New Mexico as the fifth state to make high school equivalency tests available free of charge to all residents.
Senate Bill 8, introduced by Senator Pat Woods, initiates a Veterinary Medical Loan Repayment Program. Veterinarians committing to work in underserved areas with a focus on food animal care can receive up to $80,000 in loan repayment over four years.
Senate Bill 19, proposed by Senator Jeff Steinborn, mandates a ten-hour training for regents of state educational institutions, covering legal and financial topics. The state's Higher Education Department is responsible for developing the training materials.
