​Stay informed on the latest legislative developments impacting the business community!

This page serves as your go-to resource for the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Legislative Priorities and Bi-Weekly Legislative Updates. Follow along as we track key legislation, advocate for pro-business policies, and provide timely updates from our Public Policy Committee. Together, we’re ensuring a strong voice for local businesses at the Roundhouse.

Legislative Updates

Legislative Session Update: January 22

​​The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce kicked off its first Weekly Legislative Session Update with Matthew Jaramillo, Chair of the Public Policy Committee. These sessions are designed to keep our business community informed about legislative developments and advocacy efforts during the 2025 Legislative Session.

​Session Highlights:
​
Legislative Session Overview:

This year marks a 60-day session where New Mexico’s 112 legislators, along with the governor and her administration, focus on balancing the budget and tackling key priorities.

Key Priorities:

• Crime and Public Safety:
  Both the governor and legislators aim to address crime through comprehensive programs, with an emphasis on mental health services to support those in need.
  
  
• Healthcare and Wellness:
  The session includes initiatives around hospital infrastructure, safety, and mental health services.
  
  
• Education and CYFD Reform:
  With improvements in education rankings, the state is exploring ways to bolster the Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD) through innovative restructuring.
  
  
• Economic Development and Budget:
  A record budget of $13 billion has been set, fueled by the oil and gas industry and federal matching funds, highlighting a strong year for economic growth.
  ​

Business Advocacy:

The Chamber is closely monitoring legislation that impacts the business community, including:
​

• Paid Family and Medical Leave:
  Balancing employee needs with the realities of small and medium-sized businesses.
  
  
• Tax Policy Overhaul:
  ​Simplifying tax codes and considering low-income tax relief measures to support families living near or below the poverty line.

​Engage with Your Legislators:

Santa Fe’s legislature provides unparalleled access to its citizens, encouraging open dialogue. Constituents are welcome to visit the Capitol, engage with their elected officials, and share their perspectives on pressing issues.

​​Next Updates:

The legislative session has just begun, but important developments are already in motion. Future sessions will feature guest speakers and discussions on critical policy topics that impact our business community. ​Each Wednesday we will post the latest update on our website and social media channels.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and make your voice heard. We look forward to seeing you at the next session!

Legislative Session Update: February 5

​As we enter the third week of New Mexico’s 2025 Legislative Session, the pace is picking up with over 550 pieces of legislation already introduced. In this week's update, Matt Jaramillo, Chair of the Santa Fe Chamber’s Public Policy Committee, was joined by Ricky Lee Chavez, Founder of Capitol Counsel & Consulting, LLC, to discuss key legislative developments and policy priorities.

​​Key Takeaways from the Session

• Public Safety & Crime Legislation:
  Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s crime package is a major focus, with collaboration between the Senate and House on various public safety measures. The Senate is working on behavioral health components, while the House is drafting crime-related legislation, including potential penalty enhancements.
  
  
• State Budget & Trust Funds:
  With New Mexico maintaining financial stability and a budget surplus, lawmakers are considering strategic investments to prepare for the future. Several trust funds are being proposed, including a Behavioral Health Trust Fund, Medicaid Trust Fund, Housing Trust Fund, and Tribal Education Trust Fund. These funds aim to create sustainable financial support for essential services over the long term.
  
  
• Engagement with New Legislators:
  The session has seen significant shifts in representation, with 30 new lawmakers elected in the 2024 cycle, including former House members transitioning to the Senate. Advocacy groups and businesses are actively engaging with these new members to discuss priorities and build relationships.
  
  
• Faster-Paced Session:
  Compared to previous 60-day sessions, legislative activity is moving at an accelerated rate. This momentum reflects the urgency among lawmakers to address public concerns on education, crime, and economic development.

​​Staying Informed & Engaged

The Santa Fe Chamber remains committed to keeping the business community informed on legislative developments. Advocacy efforts are in full swing, ensuring that local businesses have a voice in policy discussions.

For those interested in following the legislative process, all bill hearings and legislative updates can be accessed online at nmlegis.gov. If you have any questions or need assistance navigating the session, please reach out to Matt Jaramillo, Ricky Lee Chavez, or the Chamber team.
​
Stay tuned for our next update on Wednesday, February 12 as we continue tracking critical legislation impacting businesses and the community.

Legislative Session Update: February 12

The Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce continues to closely monitor the fast-paced developments of the 2025 legislative session. Public Policy Committee Chair Matthew Jaramillo provided this week’s update, highlighting key discussions and emerging policies that could impact New Mexico businesses and residents.

​Governor’s Race Announcement

Former Interior Secretary and Congresswoman Deb Haaland announced her candidacy for Governor. With Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham nearing the end of her term, this announcement marks the first in what is expected to be a highly competitive race.

​Key Legislative Highlights
​

• Paid Family and Medical Leave (House Bill 11):
  This bill is under review to balance benefits for employees with manageable costs for small businesses. Ongoing discussions are expected in the coming days to address potential solvency and burden-sharing concerns.
  
  
• Climate and Energy Initiatives:
  Several bills aim to reduce methane emissions, plug orphan wells, and meet commitments under the Paris Climate Accord. Efforts are focused on promoting responsible operators while encouraging compliance for others.
  
  
• Artificial Intelligence Regulation:
  New measures aim to ensure responsible AI use and protect consumers. As AI integration increases across industries, the Chamber will monitor developments closely.
  
  
• Public Banking:
  The Chamber remains opposed to public banking efforts, which could impact local financial institutions. Protecting small banks in Santa Fe and beyond remains a priority.
  
  
• Water Resource Management:
  Legislation addresses brackish water desalination and potential reuse of byproducts from the oil and gas industry. These initiatives could enhance water sustainability for agriculture and economic development.
  
  
• Economic Development and Infrastructure:
  Efforts to improve New Mexico’s site readiness for business expansion continue. Proposed initiatives aim to strengthen utility infrastructure and make the state more competitive in attracting new businesses.
  
  
• Healthcare:
  Policymakers are focused on addressing healthcare access by increasing the availability of doctors and nurses. Enhancing healthcare resources for all age groups remains a top priority.
  ​
• Crime and Public Safety:
  Crime reduction efforts are under significant review, with proposed measures aimed at improving tools and safety measures for first responders.

​Community Safety Resource Guide

​The Santa Fe Chamber recently launched its Community Safety Resource Guide on santafechamber.com. This comprehensive guide provides resources related to crime prevention, safety, health, and wellness. Visit the website for more information and support tools.

Engagement and Advocacy

Community members are encouraged to voice their opinions on proposed legislation. Contact information for representatives and updates on bills are available at nmlegis.gov.
​
The legislative session runs through March 22, 2025. Stay tuned for next week’s update as we cover more specific developments related to healthcare and crime. Thank you for staying engaged, and enjoy the beautiful Santa Fe weather!

Legislative Session Update: February 19

​Welcome to this week's legislative session update from the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce. As we move past the midpoint of the session, critical legislative developments are unfolding that could significantly impact the business community. Below is a summary of today’s discussion led by Public Policy Committee Chair Matt Jaramillo.

​Legislative Session Status
​

• New Bill Introduction Deadline:
  Tomorrow, February 20, is the last day to introduce new legislation. However, leadership and committee chairs can still reserve spots for key initiatives, often using "dummy bills" as placeholders.
  ​
• Over 1,000 pieces of legislation have been introduced so far.

​House Bill 11 and Committee Substitute

Today at 1:30 PM, the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee will debate House Bill 11 (Paid Family Medical Leave Act) and its newly proposed committee substitute, the Welcome Child and Family Wellness Leave Act.

Comparison of the Original Bill vs. Committee Substitute
​

• Purpose:
  Original Bill: Broad coverage for family, medical, and safety-related leave.
  Committee Substitute: Narrower focus on parental bonding, bereavement, and family care leave.
  
  
• Benefits:
  Original Bill: Covers family, medical, safety, and extensive leave.
  Committee Substitute: Adds welcome child, foster, bereavement, and safety leave, but limits durations.
  
  
• Eligibility:
  Original Bill: Broadly applies to employees and self-employed individuals who opt in.
  Committee Substitute: More detailed provisions for self-employed individuals.
  
  
• Duration:
  Original Bill: 12 weeks annually, with gradual medical leave rollout.
  Committee Substitute: 6 weeks annually, except for 12 weeks of welcome child leave.
  
  
• Funding Source:
  Original Bill: Employee/employer contributions at 0.5%, increasing after 2030.
  Committee Substitute: Employee contributions at 0.2% and employer contributions at 0.15%, adjusted after 2030.
  
  
• Employer Opt-Out:
  Original Bill: Allows opt-out for employers with comparable programs.
  Committee Substitute: Employers can apply for a waiver if offering comparable benefits.

The committee substitute is viewed as more fiscally manageable and business-friendly, though concerns remain about its administration and solvency.

​Other Key Legislative Measures
​

• Minimum Wage Increase:
  Proposals to raise the minimum wage are moving forward.
  
  
• Hospitality Industry Measures:
  Legislation is advancing to prevent restaurants from deducting point-of-sale fees from employees' tips.
  
  
• Energy Legislation:
  Utility-related bills on grid hardening and maintenance are progressing. A measure allowing utilities to petition for low-income rates is also under consideration.
  
  
• Crime and Health Legislation:
  ​These measures are now crossing over between the House and Senate, with ongoing debates to refine provisions.

​How to Stay Informed 
​
​Visit www.nmlegis.gov to follow today’s Paid Family Medical Leave Act debate and explore other legislative measures. The site provides committee schedules, webcasts, and legislator contact information for those wishing to voice their opinions.

​Looking Ahead

​​The legislative session concludes on March 22, and key discussions will continue over the coming weeks. Tune in next Wednesday for more updates, and thank you for supporting Bridget and the Santa Fe Chamber’s efforts to advocate for the business community.
​
Thank you for staying engaged, and we look forward to bringing you more updates as we work together to make New Mexico a thriving place for businesses and communities alike.

Legislative Session Update: March 5

With just 17 days remaining in the legislative session, there is still a significant amount of work to be done. Key legislative priorities continue to move through the process, and the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce is keeping a close eye on developments that will impact the business community.

Legislative Progress

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has already signed two major pieces of legislation:
​

• Senate Bill 3 – Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act
  ​
• House Bill 8 – Criminal Competency and Treatment Legislation

The House and Senate leadership committed to making behavioral health and competency treatment a priority, and they have followed through on that promise. However, with over two weeks left, many bills are still pending, and the state budget remains the top priority.

State Budget and Federal Concerns

​The budget, which passed the House, is now in the Senate Finance Committee for review. A looming concern is potential federal budget cuts, which could have a significant impact on key sectors such as higher education and healthcare. Legislative leaders are considering adjustments to fill potential funding gaps, and there is speculation about a possible special session later in the year to address these issues.

Taxation Proposals

​A proposed tax package is moving quickly through the House, which includes:
​

• Corporate Tax Increases
  
  
• Equalization Tax on Oil & Gas

While these measures could generate an estimated $500-$600 million annually, they also raise concerns about the impact on industries that have been driving New Mexico’s economic growth. The Chamber will continue to monitor these proposals and advocate for policies that support a healthy business climate.

Business-Related Legislation

Several bills are of particular interest to the business community:
​

• Hospital Mergers & Acquisitions Oversight:
  Proposed legislation would give the state more authority in these transactions, but the Chamber believes private enterprises should govern themselves.
  
  
• Staffing Ratios for Nurses & Doctors:
  A bill addressing this issue is moving through the House.
  
  
• Data Privacy & Artificial Intelligence Regulations:
  New Mexico is considering policies similar to those in Colorado, though there are concerns about their practicality and impact on businesses.
  ​
• Economic Development & Energy Infrastructure:
  ​The Chamber supports efforts to improve site readiness and power grid flexibility to attract businesses and streamline the permitting process.

​Workforce and Housing

• Minimum Wage Increase:
  While Santa Fe and New Mexico already have some of the highest wages in the region, new legislation is under discussion.
  
  
• Rent Control:
  A measure previously defeated is being reconsidered, raising concerns about its impact on housing development.

A Call to Action

The Chamber encourages business leaders to stay informed and engage with their elected officials. Visit www.nmlegis.gov to find your representatives, share your perspectives, and provide feedback on legislation that affects the local business community.

​Recognizing Leadership

​A special thank you to Bridget Dixon, President & CEO of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, for her tireless advocacy on behalf of local businesses. Her leadership, along with the efforts of the Chamber team and board, has been instrumental in ensuring that business voices are heard at the Roundhouse.

As we approach the final stretch of the session, we remain committed to keeping you updated on key developments. The next legislative update will take place on Wednesday, March 19. If you have concerns or questions, please reach out to the Chamber team.
​
Thank you for staying engaged, and we look forward to the final weeks of this legislative session.

Legislative Session Update: March 19

​With just four days remaining in the 2025 legislative session, it's been a whirlwind week at the Roundhouse. Several significant business-related developments have taken place, with both victories and ongoing challenges for the business community.

​Paid Family & Medical Leave Defeated

​A major point of discussion this session was House Bill 11, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. The bill failed to advance out of Senate Finance, marking a win for the business community. The Santa Fe Chamber, along with a coalition that included the Greater Albuquerque Chamber, the Hispano Chamber, the Alamogordo and Las Cruces Chambers, the Restaurant Association, and the Hospitality Association, worked diligently to educate lawmakers on the concerns surrounding this bill. Special thanks go to Senate Finance Chair George Muñoz, Vice Chair Benny Shendo, as well as Senators Bobby Gonzales and Pete Campos, for recognizing the need for a more measured approach. This issue is likely to return next year, and discussions will continue on how to create a balanced solution that benefits both employees and employers.

​​Key Bills Signed by the Governor

Several high-priority bills have already been signed into law:

• House Bill 1 (The Feed Bill):
  Covers the costs of the legislative session.
  
  
• House Bill 8:
  Omnibus Public Safety Reform Bill.
  
  
• Senate Bill 1:
  Establishes a trust fund for behavioral health initiatives.
  
  
• Senate Bill 3:
  ​Develops a regional behavioral health coordination plan with the Office of the Courts.

​Legislation Passed by Both Chambers,
Awaiting the Governor’s Action
​

• House Bill 5:
  Establishes the Office of Child Advocates within the NM Department of Justice.
  
  
• House Bill 47:
  Raises the veterans' property tax exemption from $4,000 to $10,000.
  
  
• House Joint Resolution 2:
  Proposes a constitutional amendment to eliminate pocket vetoes.
  
  
• Senate Bill 163:
  Ensures students can wear tribal regalia at graduation.
  
  
• Senate Bill 417:
  Clarifies state law regarding parenthood of children conceived via assisted reproductive methods.

​Major Bills Still in Play

With four days left, several significant measures are still making their way through the process:
​

• House Bill 2 (State Budget):
  A $10.8 billion budget reflecting increased revenues from the oil and gas industry.
  
  
• House Bill 7 (Children’s Future Act):
  Establishes "baby bonds" to invest in future economic opportunities for NM youth.
  
  
• House Bill 9:
  Bans state and local governments from contracting with the federal government for civil immigration detention.
  
  
• House Bill 10:
  Grants law enforcement authority to regulate illicit cannabis markets.
  
  
• House Bill 12:
  Expands the state’s extreme risk firearm protection law.
  
  
• House Bill 14:
  Creates a new Earned Income Tax Credit, replacing the Working Families Tax Credit.
  
  
• House Bill 37:
  Allows for the treatment and reuse of brackish water, supporting NM’s long-term water strategy.
  
  
• House Bill 143:
  Introduces new transparency measures for lobbyist disclosures.
  
  
• House Bill 166:
  Expands liquor license options for restaurants.
  
  
• House Bill 197:
  Expands the NM Silver Alert System to include elders showing signs of cognitive decline without requiring an official diagnosis.
  
  
• House Bill 586:
  Increases oversight of private equity acquisitions of hospitals, which has raised concerns among healthcare providers.

​Looking Ahead

As we enter the final days of the session, anything can happen. The budget remains a priority, and last-minute negotiations will determine the fate of many pending bills. The Santa Fe Chamber will continue monitoring developments and advocating for policies that support our business community.

Stay tuned for our final post-session update, where we will recap the outcomes and what they mean for businesses in New Mexico.

​Legislative ​Priorities

Economic Development

Economic Development

Chamber Supports:

• ​Increased investment in strategic, proven economic development programs as well as enhancing statewide tools that incentivize business investment, job creation, workforce development and vocational educational pathways.
• Amendments and/or changes to the local, state and federal procurement codes that increase efficiencies, transparency and access allowing greater access to funding resources.
• Investment and support for the New Mexico Tourism and the Economic Departments for marketing and promotional activities.
• Broadband policy that would increase private sector investment and innovation by eliminating barriers to rural deployment.
• Continued investment in road and bridge infrastructure that supports safety, local contractors, workers, and job growth in all regions of New Mexico.
• Maintaining the exclusive use of Lodgers Tax for marketing New Mexico and its cities to attract and increase tourism.
• Diversifying and creating new revenue streams to assist struggling counties and municipalities that do not increase taxes, place employment burdens on local business owners, or significantly increases the cost of doing business locally.
• Policy intended to streamline building, property, easement or utility permitting that would allow New Mexico to attract , expand and recruit new and/or existing businesses.
• Collaborative programs that will assist in increasing the supply of affordable housing in Santa Fe and New Mexico.

​Chamber Opposes:
​

• Any increase in taxes to small and local businesses, counties, municipalities and residents.
• Policies that would support “out-of- state” businesses over local New Mexico Businesses.
• Increasing regulation and “red tape” that overburden already struggling businesses.
• Any policy related to additional collections or redistributions of GRT on and away from local governments and businesses.
• Regulations that are more stringent than federal regulations.

Education and Workforce Development

Education and Workforce Development

Chamber Supports:
​

• Creating avenues that expand access to high-quality early childhood services for families by promoting and strengthening a stable early childhood industry.
• Quality childcare and education programs that are focused on a child’s success in school, measured outcomes and continued training opportunities and other initiatives to retain staff in early childhood settings
• Investment in broadband infrastructure and deployment for the use of assisting with remote and virtual education.
• Supporting the Santa Fe Community College, Branch Colleges, the State Workforce Boards, Career Technical Education and private sector industries who are committed to providing affordable and accessible education to Santa Fe’s current and future workforce.
• Coordinated high school and college workforce development programs that address New Mexico's needs such as STEM, skilled trades, healthcare, job search and financial literacy.
• Creation of apprenticeship and internship programs (with funding) to help build skills that allow soon to be graduates gain experience in the workforce.
• Recurring funding stream for New Mexico’s “Be Pro, Be Proud” vocational job advisory program.
• Increasing number of school counselors and Department of Workforce Solutions career advisors to better assist with career planning needs.

Regulatory and Government Accountability

Regulatory and Government Accountability

Chamber Supports:
​

• Reforming regulatory and administrative processes to eliminate delays and to promote consistent, reasonable, and predictable processes including policy development, permitting, enforcement and compliance procedures.
• Policy and regulation that protects the collection, communication, storage and sharing of personal information about consumers, individuals and children.
• Implementation of a one-stop local business portal and statewide business licensing system with involvement from the business community to effectively streamline business filings, registrations, and regulations.
• Evaluation of the state tax code for recommendations to minimize the disproportionate burden on industries, individuals, and employers.
• Support recently developed statewide economic development plan as well as funding and staff to ensure the effort has all opportunities for success
• Increase funding for public safety and police officers as well as policy that will allow for increased police presence in Greater Santa Fe area.
• Consistent, efficient and predictable regulations and permitting processes to bolster state and local development pipelines.

​Chamber Opposes:
​

• Policy related to creation of a State Public Bank
• Authorizing or funding non-governmental entities and/or private citizens to bring actions on their own behalf or behalf of the state to enforce state regulations or permit conditions.

Workplace Issues

Workplace Issues

Chamber Supports:
​

• Policy, programs and funding to address crime, employee and visitor safety and the unclean and unpleasant pedestrian experience, especially in the dusk and overnight hours.
• State preemption of local government mandates on employers, such as unreasonable paid or unpaid leave mandates, fair work week, wage or fringe benefit mandates and scheduling mandates, to provide a stable environment for employers to promote economic development.
• Equal policies supporting local businesses over out-of-state cannabis providers. More research into medical and recreation cannabis use to provide perspective on an employer’s ability to maintain a drug free workplace.
• Support policy and regulation that will ensure healthcare and prescription costs are affordable, allow for flexibility, and provide greater access to small and midsize businesses and their employees.

​Chamber Opposes:
​

• Excessive employment laws or regulations that expose employers to legal, regulatory, and financial risks.
• Oppose policies that restrict employee access and education regarding available affordable healthcare and prescription drug options.

Learn More About HB 11

Supporting families is a top priority for the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, and we recognize the importance of policies that help working parents and caregivers. However, as currently written, HB 11 misses the mark and presents significant challenges for businesses that could ultimately impact jobs and economic growth. We are advocating for a solution that better balances support for families with the needs of employers.

Learn more about HB 11 and why the Chamber is working to improve it.