From The President's Desk—January 2025

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:
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• 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:
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• 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:
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• 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:
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• 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.

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