Major General Miguel Aguilar, Interim Cabinet Secretary | New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (Dhsem)
New Mexico’s Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) is seeking $6.9 million in additional funding to address a rise in disasters that have led to 11 state emergency declarations so far this year.
The department will present its budget request to the Legislative Finance Committee at the State Capitol, outlining the need for increased resources due to frequent activations of the State Emergency Operations Center. In 2025, DHSEM activated its operations center 11 times, including in response to a federally declared disaster after severe summer storms, flooding, and landslides. The agency is also managing recovery efforts from three federal disasters that occurred in 2022 and 2024.
“Disasters are happening more frequently, and our team has become essential to public safety across New Mexico,” said Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, Interim Cabinet Secretary. “We need adequate resources to meet the growing demand.”
The proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 includes an increase of $3.8 million intended for new staff positions focused on disaster response, recovery operations, disaster finance management, fire prevention measures, and code enforcement.
“This budget increase will ensure we can respond every time a community needs us,” said Aguilar.
Additionally, the State Fire Marshal’s Office—which has been part of DHSEM since 2021—is requesting $12 million for its own fiscal year needs.
