From the President's Desk

Chamber Outlines 2025 Legislative Priorities to Boost Santa Fe Economy

The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce has released its 2025 Legislative Priorities to enhance economic development, education, workforce growth, and regulatory reform, aiming to foster business-friendly policies and improve residents' quality of life across New Mexico.

Economic Development

The Chamber advocates for:

• Increased investment in proven economic development programs.
• Policies to eliminate barriers to rural broadband deployment and boost private sector innovation.
• Infrastructure funding for safer roads, job growth, and local contractor support.
• Maintaining Lodgers Tax exclusivity to attract visitors through tourism marketing.
• Programs to expand affordable housing availability.
• Streamlined permitting to attract and grow businesses.
  
  

The Chamber opposes tax increases on small businesses and policies favoring out-of-state competitors or adding excessive regulations.

Education and Workforce Development

The Chamber prioritizes:

• Expanding access to high-quality early childhood services.
• Supporting coordinated workforce programs in STEM, healthcare, and skilled trades.
• Increasing school counselors and career advisors for effective planning.
• Collaborating with institutions to deliver affordable, accessible education.

Regulatory Reform

The Chamber promotes streamlined processes for predictable, efficient regulations, including:

• Protecting consumer and individual data.
• Simplifying compliance with a statewide business licensing system.
• Increasing public safety funding for police in Santa Fe.
  
  

The Chamber opposes policies that authorize or fund non-governmental entities or private citizens to enforce state regulations or permit conditions, whether on their own behalf or on behalf of the state.

Workplace Issues

The Chamber supports:

• Policies ensuring employee and visitor safety, particularly during late hours.
• State-level mandates that reduce local regulatory burdens on employers.
• Affordable healthcare access for small and midsize businesses.
  
  

The Chamber opposes excessive employment regulations that expose employers to financial risks or limit employee access to affordable healthcare.
 
The Chamber’s 2025 priorities are designed to drive economic growth, ensure government accountability, and enhance the quality of life for all New Mexicans through strategic investments and collaboration. Learn more at www.santafechamber.com.

Bridget Dixson, IOM
President and CEO
Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Calendar

​2025 Legislative Preview
Wednesday, January 8, 5:00 pm--
La Fonda on the Plaza,
100 E San Francisco Street, Santa Fe
 
NMORCA Meeting
​(New Mexico Organized Retail Crime Association)
Thursday, January 23, 9:30 am--
Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce,
1611 Calle Lorca, Suite 301, Santa Fe
 
2025 Legislative Reception
Monday, January 27, 5:00 pm--
Santa Fe Community Convention Center,
​201 W. Marcy Street, Santa Fe

Holiday Mercado
Saturday, February 1, 10:00 am--
Fraternal Order of Police
3300 Calle Maria Luisa #3, Santa Fe

Ribbon Cuttings

On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Roseta Santiago celebrated the ribbon cutting for The Guadalupe Project, an art exhibition at Blue Rain Gallery dedicated to compassion, healing, and love, inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe. The exhibition featured original works from 30 renowned artists and included a silent auction benefiting Red Willow Hospice. Learn more about Santiago’s inspiring project and its mission to uplift the spirit.

Learn more at rosetasantiago.com.

On Thursday, December 5, 2024, Anchorum Health Foundation celebrated their move to a new campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Formerly known as Anchorum St. Vincent, the foundation relocated from their previous location on Hospital Drive to the former home of the Lannan Foundation.

Learn more about Anchorum Health Foundation at anchorum.org.

On Friday, December 20, 2024, Computer Assets, Inc. celebrated 32 years of service to the Española Valley and the Southwest with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Family-owned and founded by Abe Salazar in 1993, Computer Assets has grown into a leading telecommunications and surveillance company in New Mexico.

Learn more about Computer Assets at computerassets.com.

Members of the Month

Solace Sexual Assault Services is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive support and healing for survivors of sexual assault in northern New Mexico. With a team of highly trained professionals, the organization offers a wide range of trauma-informed services addressing the unique needs of survivors. Solace serves as a beacon of compassion, dignity, and hope, empowering survivors through healing and social change. For over 52 years, its commitment has reshaped the landscape of abuse recovery and prevention.

Learn more at findsolace.org.

High Vibe Brands, led by Kat Walsh, is a dynamic marketing agency specializing in creative social media, brand storytelling, and digital strategies that elevate businesses. With a focus on connecting brands to their audiences through authentic and engaging content, High Vibe Brands has helped numerous Santa Fe businesses shine. Passionate about community and innovation, Kat combines her expertise with a deep love for Santa Fe, making her a trusted partner in growing local businesses.

Learn more at highvibebrands.love.