The New Mexico Senate and House have concluded their special session, sending several bills to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for approval. Among the legislation passed is House Bill 2, aimed at preventing significant insurance cost increases for middle-income residents by ensuring broad health insurance coverage. The bill passed the Senate with a vote of 34-3 and had earlier cleared committee stages with bipartisan support.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Peter Wirth noted the efficiency of the session, highlighting that the Senate completed its deliberations in just 25 hours. Meanwhile, the House debated three key bills: Senate Bill 1, focusing on rural healthcare delivery; Senate Bill 2, concerning competency determinations in Metro Court; and Senate Bill 3, addressing vaccination requirements. All three bills received approval and are now awaiting the governor's signature.
The general appropriations bill was also swiftly passed on the first day of the session. It includes $144 million in new spending for various initiatives such as food banks and public broadcasting programs.
Despite these legislative successes, some Republican lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction over being excluded from pre-session negotiations. This exclusion led to extended debates during the session.
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce expressed optimism about future legislative sessions, particularly regarding potential actions on medical compacts and juvenile justice reform when regular sessions resume in January.
The special session was characterized by a narrow focus on issues aligned with federal government actions, leaving some local concerns unaddressed. However, there remains hope for broader discussions in upcoming sessions.
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