On February 28, Anytime Plumbing, Sewer, Drain & Heating opened the doors to their stunning new location at 4001 Office Court Drive, Suite 302-303 with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony! Friends, family, employees, and guests came together to celebrate, enjoy delicious food, play games, and tour the impressive new facility.

Learn more about Anytime Plumbing at anytimeplumbing505.com.

​Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development.

​On Friday, February 28, 2025, Boot Barn celebrated the grand opening of their newly relocated store with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Guests enjoyed music, vendors, sales, and exciting giveaways while exploring Boot Barn’s wide selection of western and work apparel, footwear, and accessories.

Learn more at bootbarn.com.

​Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development.

On Friday, February 28, 2025, America’s Mattress celebrated the opening of their newest location with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event featured free food, a live radio remote, and a free mattress giveaway, welcoming the community to explore their selection of quality mattresses and sleep products.

Learn more at americasmattress.com/abq.

Ribbon Cuttings sponsored by the City of Santa Fe Office of Economic Development.

Investing in professional development and networking at events like W.A.C.E. strengthens our Chamber’s ability to champion local businesses, foster strategic partnerships, and bring innovative solutions back to our community. We look forward to implementing what we’ve learned and continuing to enhance the value we provide to our members.

Learn more about W.A.C.E. at waceonline.com.

The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce is committed to policies that strengthen our economy and support workers. However, House Bill 11, the proposed Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) initiative, presents serious financial risks for businesses and employees alike.
 
This bill introduces a $450 million tax on working New Mexicans, projected to rise to $545 million by 2031. For many small and medium-sized businesses operating on tight margins, this additional cost could mean cutting jobs, reducing wages, or shutting down. These businesses drive job creation and innovation—policies that weaken them ultimately harm the very workers they aim to help.
 
Consumers will also feel the impact. Higher costs for businesses often translate into price increases, worsening inflation and reducing household purchasing power. At a time when many families are already struggling with rising living expenses, adding another financial burden is counterproductive.
 
House Bill 11 also imposes a one-size-fits-all mandate, ignoring the diverse needs of businesses and workers. A locally owned shop does not have the same resources as a large corporation, yet both would face the same obligations. This lack of flexibility creates unintended consequences, disproportionately hurting smaller employers.
 
Providing paid family and medical leave is a valuable goal, but there are better ways to achieve it. Encouraging voluntary participation, offering tax incentives for businesses that provide leave benefits, and leveraging public-private partnerships could support workers without disrupting economic stability.
 
Moreover, the bill’s reliance on increased taxation raises concerns about its long-term sustainability. With pressing economic challenges like infrastructure improvements and workforce development, our state must be strategic about funding priorities. Burdening businesses with additional taxes will only stifle growth and discourage new investments.
 
New Mexico should pursue policies that uplift both businesses and employees. By exploring alternative solutions, we can ensure workers receive necessary support without undermining the foundations of our economy. I urge policymakers to seek balanced, sustainable approaches that foster prosperity for all.
 
For more information visit: www.workingfamiliesnm.com