The New Mexico Legislature will convene on January 16, 2024, where among other issues, we anticipate lawmakers will consider several bills that would increase the cost of doing business in New Mexico.

Those policy proposals include but aren’t limited to:

A Tax Hike on Affordable Energy

• HB 41 would authorize the Environmental Improvement Board to adopt rules to establish and asses fees for a low carbon fuel standard (LCFS), which would drive up energy costs for New Mexico families and small business owners.
• In September, NFIB testified against the proposal, warning that similar proposals in other states added roughly 20 cents to the price of every gallon of gas sold.

A So-Called ‘Green Amendment’

• HJR 4 would propose to amend the New Mexico Constitution to provide the people of the state with right to clean and healthy air, water, soil, and environments.
• The proposal would create a private right of action for every New Mexican and undermine the existing regulatory environment. If adopted, it would stall construction, development, and renovation projects across the state, including renewable energy projects.

A Paid Family Medical Leave Mandate

• Though defeated in the previous session, we anticipate lawmakers will once again consider another loosely defined, state-run family medical leave proposal.
• In September, NFIB testified against the proposal, citing a recent study that found 89% of small business owners opposed the creation of this new costly mandate.

Direct advocacy in Santa Fe, along with the help of our members who actively reach out and voice their concerns with lawmakers, makes a big difference!

Have you updated your member profile? The NFIB Engage App is where you can stay up to date with legislation that will impact your business at the state or federal level, and how you can get involved. CLICK HERE to learn more.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to NFIB State Director Jason Espinoza or Grassroots Manager Logan Nevonen.