Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico has announced a special legislative session set to begin on October 1. The session aims to address the challenges posed by federal budget cuts, which are expected to impact New Mexico communities significantly. Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the need for action, stating, "New Mexicans should not be forced to shoulder these heavy burdens without help from their elected officials."
The governor and lawmakers plan to discuss various measures during the session. These include funding for the Rural Health Care Delivery Fund, efforts to make health insurance premiums more affordable, new investments in food assistance programs, and additional resources for public broadcasting. They also aim to prepare for changes in Medicaid enrollment.
The federal legislation H.R.1, signed into law by President Trump on July 4, is expected to reduce state revenues and shift costs from the federal government to states like New Mexico. This could lead to significant financial losses in Medicaid and SNAP funds annually, threatening household budgets and healthcare systems in rural areas.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth highlighted the urgency of the situation: "New Mexico cannot stand by while Washington’s reckless budget cuts inflict generational harm on families and communities across the state." Speaker of the House Javier Martínez echoed this sentiment, expressing readiness to protect essential services for New Mexicans.
Discussions will also cover behavioral health challenges affecting criminal justice and community safety during both the special session and an upcoming 30-day session. This will be the seventh special session under Governor Lujan Grisham's leadership.
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