Carbon-Capture Stewardship  |  HB458

HB458 enacts the Geologic Carbon Dioxide Storage Stewardship Act, which authorizes the transfer of carbon-capture sequestration facilities, and long-term storage responsibilities to the state, and creates a long-term storage fund.

The New Mexico Senate passed HB458 March 22, 2025 by a vote of 26 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the nays because carbon-capture programs intended to combat “climate change” align closely with the UN’s Agenda 2030, undermining national sovereignty and individual liberty. States should reject UN environmental agendas that erode U.S. sovereignty. Additionally, the underground CO2 storage endangers the security of water resources, and communities, due to the long-term monitoring and storage requirements of carbon sequestration storage sites.

SNAP Expansion  |  HB77

HB77 enacts a new section of the Public Assistance Act requiring the New Mexico Health Care Authority to develop annual state outreach plans for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The authority must submit these plans to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, and seek maximum federal matching funds.

The New Mexico Senate passed HB77 on March 21, 2025 by a vote of 36 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation increases state acceptance of the federal SNAP program. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution does not authorize the federal government to create food assistance programs. By aligning with federal SNAP requirements and relying on federal matching funds, HB77 entangles New Mexico in federal regulations and undermines state authority over public policy.

Illegal Aliens as Law-Enforcement Officers  |  SB364

SB364 amends New Mexico law to expand eligibility for law-enforcement-officer appointments to noncitizens. The bill allows DACA recipients and noncitizens authorized to work by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to serve as law-enforcement officers in New Mexico.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed SB364 on March 21, 2025 by a vote of 38 to 20. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation undermines public safety and national security by expanding law-enforcement eligibility to noncitizens. While the 10th Amendment reserves to the states the authority to regulate law enforcement qualifications, this power should be exercised in a manner that upholds the integrity of law enforcement. Allowing noncitizens to exercise police power and authority over citizens as law-enforcement officers undermines public trust in law enforcement and raises concerns about allegiance and accountability.

“Extreme Risk” Firearm Confiscation  |  HB12

HB12 amends the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act to allow law-enforcement officers to file petitions for firearm protection orders based on information collected during official duties, and from reporting parties. Petitions must include a statement supporting the belief of “imminent danger.” Respondents are required to surrender all firearms immediately upon service of a extreme-risk firearm protection order.

The New Mexico Senate passed HB12 on March 17, 2025 by a vote of 23 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation allows law enforcement to confiscate firearms without due process, violating the Second Amendment and undermining individual liberty by allowing subjective assessments of “imminent danger” to authorize firearm confiscations. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms. State governments must reject laws that infringe on God-given, constitutionally protected rights.

LGBTQ+ Public Holiday  |  HB518

HB518 designates the fourth Tuesday of January of each odd-numbered year as “Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Expansive Day” in New Mexico to recognize the supposed cultural, economic, and historic contributions of individuals identifying as “lesbian,” “gay,” “bisexual,” “transgender,” “queer,” or “expansive.” This public holiday is intended to “honor” past, present, and future leaders of the LGBTQ+ movement.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB518 on March 13, 2025 by a vote of 43 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation promotes “woke” LGBTQ+ identity-based recognition, which fosters division and sanctions grossly illicit acts of sexual perversion. Homosexual behavior is contrary to the “Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God,” undermining self-government and the family. It attacks the very foundations of a free society. Nothing in the U.S. Constitution can be used to support homosexuality. No amount of “LGBTQ+” legislation can make normal, let alone constitutional, that which truth has told us since time immemorial to abominable and shameful.

Illegal Aliens as Law-Enforcement Officers  |  SB364

SB364 amends New Mexico law to expand eligibility for law-enforcement-officer appointments to noncitizens. The bill allows DACA recipients and noncitizens authorized to work by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to serve as law-enforcement officers in New Mexico.

The New Mexico Senate passed SB364 on March 13, 2025 by a vote of 26 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation undermines public safety and national security by expanding law-enforcement eligibility to noncitizens. While the 10th Amendment reserves to the states the authority to regulate law enforcement qualifications, this power should be exercised in a manner that upholds the integrity of law enforcement. Allowing noncitizens to exercise police power and authority over citizens as law-enforcement officers undermines public trust in law enforcement and raises concerns about allegiance and accountability.

Carbon-Capture Stewardship  |  HB458

HB458 enacts the Geologic Carbon Dioxide Storage Stewardship Act, which authorizes the transfer of carbon-capture sequestration facilities, and long-term storage responsibilities to the state, and creates a long-term storage fund.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB458 March 11, 2025 by a vote of 51 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the nays because carbon-capture programs intended to combat “climate change” align closely with the UN’s Agenda 2030, undermining national sovereignty and individual liberty. States should reject UN environmental agendas that erode U.S. sovereignty. Additionally, the underground CO2 storage endangers the security of water resources, and communities, due to the long-term monitoring and storage requirements of carbon sequestration storage sites.

Housing Assistance Program  |  HB453

HB453 amends the Affordable Housing Act to establish a creditworthiness assistance program administered by the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority, providing grants to cover unpaid rent and damages to rented residential properties. The bill allows grants for land, buildings, or infrastructure to support affordable housing. It also sets requirements for local governments to enact ordinances for housing-assistance grants, and mandates long-term affordability for housing projects.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB453 on March 10, 2025 by a vote of 47 to 16. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation increases government spending and involvement in housing and financial assistance, burdening taxpayers and undermining the free market. HB453’s expansion of state-funded grants and acceptance of federal funds infringes on state sovereignty and encourages dependency on government assistance. Taxpayer money should not be used to fund this program because it increases government spending and bureaucracy, undermining economic freedom and personal responsibility.

Special Education Act  |  SB38

SB38 enacts the Special Education Act, which creates the Office of Special Education within the Public Education Department. This legislation transfers federal funding for preschool special education to the Early Childhood Education and Care Department. It mandates evaluations and screenings for disabilities, as well as research-based or evidence-based interventions. Additionally, this legislation mandates the inclusion of students with disabilities in all educational programs and activities and monitors their academic and nonacademic progress.

The New Mexico Senate passed SB38 on February 27, 2025 by a vote of 31 to 7. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation expands public-education bureaucracy and increases government involvement in education, infringing on local control and parental rights. The bill’s alignment with federal mandates increases federal oversight in New Mexico, reducing state sovereignty.

Climate-Change Fund  |  SB48

SB48 creates the Community Benefit Fund in the state treasury, administered by the Department of Finance and Administration, to fund “climate change” projects to reduce combustion-engine vehicle use and greenhouse-gas emissions, increase electric grid capacity, increase electricity from renewable energy resources, and support electric-vehicle charging infrastructure. Projects under this bill focus on supporting “overburdened communities” affected by environmental challenges.

The New Mexico Senate passed SB48 on February 25, 2025 by a vote of 23 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the nays because climate-change programs aligned with the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, undermine national sovereignty and expand government bureaucracy. The bill’s focus on climate-change initiatives reduces state autonomy and prioritizes ideological goals, states should reject UN environmental agendas that infringe on economic freedom and local control.

“Extreme Risk” Firearm Confiscation  |  HB12

HB12 amends the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act to allow law-enforcement officers to file petitions for firearm protection orders based on information collected during official duties, and from reporting parties. Petitions must include a statement supporting the belief of “imminent danger.” Respondents are required to surrender all firearms immediately upon service of a extreme-risk firearm protection order.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB12 on February 25, 2025 by a vote of 41 to 27. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation allows law enforcement to confiscate firearms without due process, violating the Second Amendment and undermining individual liberty by allowing subjective assessments of “imminent danger” to authorize firearm confiscations. The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution explicitly protects the right of the people to keep and bear arms. State governments must reject laws that infringe on God-given, constitutionally protected rights.

SNAP Expansion  |  HB77

HB77 enacts a new section of the Public Assistance Act requiring the New Mexico Health Care Authority to develop annual state outreach plans for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The authority must submit these plans to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, and seek maximum federal matching funds.

The New Mexico House of Representatives passed HB77 on February 21, 2025 by a vote of 62 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation increases state acceptance of the federal SNAP program. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution does not authorize the federal government to create food assistance programs. By aligning with federal SNAP requirements and relying on federal matching funds, HB77 entangles New Mexico in federal regulations and undermines state authority over public policy.

Paid Medical Leave  |  SB3

SB3 proposed creating a state-run Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, offering up to 12 weeks of paid leave for workers needing time off for serious health conditions, caregiving, bonding with a child, or military-related leave. Funded through payroll taxes (0.5% from employees and 0.4% from employers), the program would begin in 2028 and adjust rates annually to remain solvent.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives rejected SB3 on February 14, 2024 by a vote of 34 to 36. We have assigned pluses to the nays because government intervention in private business operations undermines the free market. Additionally, this greatly expands the burden on taxpayers to pay for government employees’ medical leave. Decisions about employee benefits, such as paid medical leave, should be left to businesses to determine based on market competition, which naturally incentivizes employers to provide attractive benefits to retain and recruit workers.

Subsidized Healthcare  |  SB17

SB17 promotes healthcare accessibility in rural areas. It establishes the Healthcare Delivery and Access Medicaid-Directed Payment Program, which aims to leverage approximately $1.3 billion in federal Medicaid matching funds. This program is designed to increase financial stability for hospitals across the state, with a focus on supporting rural hospitals at risk of closure. To receive full funding, hospitals must meet specific quality of care metrics and are required to reinvest 75% of the funds into healthcare services within New Mexico.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed SB17 on February 13, 2024 by a vote of 59 to 1. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation is a blatant expansion of government. Instead of letting the free market determine which hospitals survive, SB17 props up failing healthcare facilities with taxpayer dollars, distorting the system and increasing government dependency. Medicaid itself is an unconstitutional federal program, as it is not authorized under Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution. States should reject these funds because, as the bill itself states, hospitals must meet specific federally dictated quality metrics. Federal money always comes with strings attached, further entrenching government control over healthcare.

Early Childhood Education Funding  |  SB153

SB153 bolsters early childhood education funding. The legislation increases the annual transfer to the Early Childhood Education and Care Program Fund from $150 million to $250 million.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed SB153 on February 10, 2024 by a vote of 52 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because education is not a proper function of government, and taxpayers should not be forced to fund schooling for other people’s children. Instead, we encourage parents to remove their children from government-run schools and seek sound alternatives, such as homeschooling or patriotic private institutions such as FreedomProject Academy, which operate without government funding.

Clean Transportation Fuel Standards  |  HB41

HB41 establishes a Clean Transportation Fuel Standard to reduce the “carbon intensity” of transportation fuels used in the state. The law sets targets to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from these fuels to 20% below 2018 levels by 2030 and to 30% by 2040. It introduces a system where producers and importers of low-carbon fuels can generate credits to sell to those dealing with higher-carbon fuels, pushing others to adopt cleaner energy sources.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed HB41 on February 3, 2024 by a vote of 36 to 33. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill expands government and infringes on individual freedoms and economic liberties. Tax dollars should not go toward complying with any aspect of the UN’s Agenda 2030, as it is not constitutional. Additionally, this legislation creates more government interference in the economy and advances the Marxist climate-change agenda. Businesses should have the freedom to conduct business without the government meddling in their affairs by setting unrealistic and costly regulations.

Firearm Sale Waiting Period  |  HB129

HB129 establishes a mandatory seven-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. This “cooling-off” period aims to reduce impulsive acts of violence and suicide by providing individuals time to reconsider decisions to acquire firearms. The waiting period includes the time required for federal background checks; however, if the background check is not completed within seven days, the seller must wait until it is finalized before transferring the firearm.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed HB129 on February 2, 2024 by a vote of 37 to 33. We have assigned pluses to the nays because imposing waiting periods and background checks as a general requirement for firearm purchases significantly infringes on our constitutionally protected rights, particularly the Second and Fourth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. The Second Amendment states, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Waiting periods and background checks directly violate that right.

General Appropriation  |  HB2

HB2 is the state’s General Appropriation Act for fiscal year 2024, allocating funding across multiple sectors. It designates approximately $1.96 billion for health services, including Medicaid and other programs through the new Health Care Authority Department. The bill also increases funding for natural-resources agencies such as the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, as well as the Environment Department. In commerce and industry, it allocates $13.5 million for the Local Economic Development Act and $175 million for expanding the opportunity enterprise fund. Judicial and public-safety agencies also receive budget increases for staffing and equipment. Additionally, it provides for a 4% salary raise for public and school employees, with over $127 million earmarked for school employees and $87 million for state and higher education staff. The act includes $1.13 billion for nonrecurring special appropriations and $126 million to supplement the 2024 operating budget.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed HB2 on January 31, 2024 by a vote of 53 of 16. We have assigned pluses to the nays because these appropriations are a gross abuse of taxpayer spending. Funding Medicaid, expanding bureaucratic agencies, and pouring millions into economic development schemes are not the proper roles of government. From healthcare funding to embracing false climate-change narratives, these spending items should be cut down to nothing.

Subsidized Housing  |  HB195

HB195 modifies the Opportunity Enterprise Revolving Loan Fund, enabling it to support housing infrastructure and workforce development projects. Accompanied by a $125 million appropriation, the fund aims to assist “essential workers” such as teachers, police officers, and nurses who struggle to afford homes. The New Mexico Finance Authority will manage the fund, collaborating with local governments to bypass permitting and land-use issues that delay housing development.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB195 on February 14, 2024 by a vote of 26 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill represents unwarranted government interference in the market. This government-subsidized housing program unfairly benefits a specific segment of the population, effectively picking winners and losers. Moreover, this bill represents a step toward socialism, as it misuses taxpayer dollars to fund subsidized housing, undermining market-driven solutions and fiscal responsibility.

Federal Match Fund  |  HB177

HB177 established the “New Mexico Match Fund,” a non-reverting fund within the state treasury. Administered by the Department of Finance and Administration, this fund is designed to provide matching funds to state, tribal, and local entities, enabling them to qualify for federal grants and programs that require such matches. The initiative aims to enhance the state’s ability to secure federal funding for infrastructure, research, and economic-development projects.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB177 on February 13, 2024 by a vote of 37 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because New Mexico should not create a fund that effectively will surrender state sovereignty to the federal government. Federal funds always come with strings attached, leading to expanded government control and the erosion of state and local decision-making.

Clean Transportation Fuel Standards  |  HB41

HB41 establishes a Clean Transportation Fuel Standard to reduce the “carbon intensity” of transportation fuels used in the state. The law sets targets to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from these fuels to 20% below 2018 levels 2030 and to 30% by 2040. It introduces a system where producers and importers of low-carbon fuels can generate credits to sell to those dealing with higher-carbon fuels, pushing others to adopt cleaner energy sources.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB41 on February 13, 2024 by a vote of 26 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill expands government and infringes on individual freedoms and economic liberties. Tax dollars should not go toward complying with any aspect of the UN’s Agenda 2030, as it is not constitutional. Additionally, this legislation creates more government interference in the economy and advances the Marxist climate-change agenda. Businesses should have the freedom to conduct business without the government meddling in their affairs by setting unrealistic and costly regulations.

General Appropriation  |  HB2

HB2 is the state’s General Appropriation Act for fiscal year 2024, allocating funding across multiple sectors. It designates approximately $1.96 billion for health services, including Medicaid and other programs through the new Health Care Authority Department. The bill also increases funding for natural-resources agencies such as the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, as well as the Environment Department. In commerce and industry, it allocates $13.5 million for the Local Economic Development Act and $175 million for expanding the opportunity enterprise fund. Judicial and public-safety agencies also receive budget increases for staffing and equipment. Additionally, it provides for a 4% salary raise for public and school employees, with over $127 million earmarked for school employees and $87 million for state and higher education staff. The act includes $1.13 billion for nonrecurring special appropriations and $126 million to supplement the 2024 operating budget.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB2 on February 12, 2024 by a vote of 31 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the nays because these appropriations are a gross abuse of taxpayer spending. Funding Medicaid, expanding bureaucratic agencies, and pouring millions into economic development schemes are not the proper roles of government. From healthcare funding to embracing false climate-change narratives, these spending items should be cut down to nothing.

Early Childhood Education Funding  |  SB153

SB153 bolsters early childhood education funding. The legislation increases the annual transfer to the Early Childhood Education and Care Program Fund from $150 million to $250 million.

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB153 on February 1, 2024 by a vote of 31 to 7. We have assigned pluses to the nays because education is not a proper function of government, and taxpayers should not be forced to fund schooling for other people’s children. Instead, we encourage parents to remove their children from government-run schools and seek sound alternatives, such as homeschooling or patriotic private institutions such as FreedomProject Academy, which operate without government funding.

Firearms Near Polling Places  |  SB5

SB5 prohibits the possession of firearms within specific distances of polling places during elections. Specifically, individuals are barred from carrying loaded or unloaded firearms within 100 feet of the entrance to a school-based polling location on election day, within 100 feet of the entrance to other polling places, and within 50 feet of postal collection boxes or monitored secured containers.

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB5 on January 30, 2024 by a vote of 26 to 16. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill directly violates the Second Amendment, which clearly states, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” By prohibiting the possession of firearms near polling places, SB5 imposes unconstitutional restrictions on law-abiding citizens. Nowhere does the Constitution grant the government the authority to dictate where individuals may exercise their right to bear arms, making this legislation an unjust infringement on fundamental freedoms.

Permanent Residence for Illegal Aliens Under 21  |  HB15

HB15 allows illegal aliens under 21 years of age to apply for “Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ)” classification in children’s court and seek “lawful permanent residence” in the U.S. if it is in their “best interests” due to “abuse, neglect, abandonment, or similar circumstances.”   

The Senate passed HB15 on March 18, 2023, by a vote of 33 to 6. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because persons who enter the United States illegally—which, by definition, is a crime—should not be permitted sanctuary in New Mexico, let alone be regarded as eligible for “lawful permanent residence” according to “best interests of the child” legislation modeled after the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Rather than pursue a blatantly unconstitutional and anti-American policy that erodes both the rule of law and the value of citizenship, state lawmakers should use their powers reserved under the U.S. Constitution’s 10^th Amendment to end the crisis of illegal immigration and provide for the public safety.  

Universal Background Checks for Firearms  |  HB306

HB306 makes it a crime for a person to purchase or transfer any firearm “for, on behalf of or at the request or demand of” another person who is a “felon” or “intends to use, carry, possess, sell, or otherwise transfer” a firearm “in furtherance of a felony or misdemeanor.”

The Senate passed HB306 on March 16, 2023, by a vote of 28 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill effectively requires a background check for every firearm purchase or transfer, without any exception for gifts or family members. Moreover, it does not contain a time limit for prosecution or differentiate between a “felon” convicted of a violent capital or first-degree crime (e.g., murder or rape) and persons guilty of lesser fourth-degree offenses (e.g., theft or possession of illegal drugs). Law-abiding citizens, including those who have made just restitution for their past wrongs, need their Constitutional rights restored. The Second Amendment guarantees that “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed,” whereas the Fifth and the 14th Amendments prevent “any State” from depriving or denying “any person” of their “life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.”

Permanent Residence for Illegal Aliens Under 21  |  HB15

HB15 allows illegal aliens under 21 years of age to apply for “Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ)” classification in children’s court and seek “lawful permanent residence” in the U.S. if it is in their “best interests” due to “abuse, neglect, abandonment, or similar circumstances.”   

The House passed HB15 on March 12, 2023, by a vote of 64 to 0. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because persons who enter the United States illegally—which, by definition, is a crime—should not be permitted sanctuary in New Mexico, let alone be regarded as eligible for “lawful permanent residence” according to “best interests of the child” legislation modeled after the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Rather than pursue a blatantly unconstitutional and anti-American policy that erodes both the rule of law and the value of citizenship, state lawmakers should use their powers reserved under the U.S. Constitution’s 10^th Amendment to end the crisis of illegal immigration and provide for the public safety.  

“Free” School Meals  |  SB4

SB4, the “Healthy Hunger-Free Students’ Bill of Rights Act,” expands “free” meals to all public, charter, and private school students attending schools that participate in the national school breakfast and lunch programs.     

The House passed SB4 on March 12, 2023, by a vote of 63 to 0. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because it is not the role of government to feed or educate children; rather, each of these responsibilities belongs to a child’s parents or family. Not only does charity have no part in the duty of government, but there can be no such thing as a “free” meal that comes at “no cost.” The reality is that this type of ‘cradle-to-grave’ program relies on the unconstitutional theft of taxpayer money for use on behalf of some citizens (particularly those who have little or no tax liability) at the expense of others—resulting in more debt, dependency, and poverty. The hard-working people of New Mexico should not be forced to fund all that now entails a compulsory, failing, and state-administered K-12 school system.

Universal Background Checks for Firearms  |  HB306

HB306 makes it a crime for a person to purchase or transfer any firearm “for, on behalf of or at the request or demand of” another person who is a “felon” or “intends to use, carry, possess, sell, or otherwise transfer” a firearm “in furtherance of a felony or misdemeanor.”

The House passed HB306 on March 10, 2023, by a vote of 62 to 3. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill effectively requires a background check for every firearm purchase or transfer, without any exception for gifts or family members. Moreover, it does not contain a time limit for prosecution or differentiate between a “felon” convicted of a violent capital or first-degree crime (e.g., murder or rape) and persons guilty of lesser fourth-degree offenses (e.g., theft or possession of illegal drugs). Law-abiding citizens, including those who have made just restitution for their past wrongs, need their Constitutional rights restored. The Second Amendment guarantees that “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed,” whereas the Fifth and the 14th Amendments prevent “any State” from depriving or denying “any person” of their “life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.”

State-Sponsored Abortion and Sex Mutilation  |  SB13

SB13 considers “reproductive health care,” such as “abortion,” as well as “gender affirming health care,” to be a “protected health care activity,” which shall not be subject to certain civil or criminal liability or professional disciplinary action.

The Senate passed SB13 on March 10, 2023, by a vote of 26 to 16. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the care of human life—not its destruction—is the greatest responsibility of government. New Mexico ought to forbid all methods of abortion and prohibit the practice of sex mutilation. No person has the right to kill or harm a child using the pretext of “reproductive health” or “gender identity.” Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution affirm the fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right to life and limb of every person. Therefore, each of the several States has a duty to defend the basic humanity of all its citizens, especially the preborn and minors.

Medicaid for All  |  HB400

HB400 requires a study of the “Medicaid Forward” plan, which would open Medicaid coverage to every resident, regardless of income.

The House passed HB400 on March 7, 2023, by a vote of 58 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the nays because neither health care nor social welfare is the legitimate object of government. Medicaid, like other so-called ‘entitlement programs,’ is financed in large part by immoral and anti-constitutional forms of taxation (e.g., personal or corporate income taxes) that take from citizens the wages they have rightfully earned. Instead of seeking ways to create and implement a completely government-run health care system in New Mexico, the Legislature should work to rein in big government, out-of-control spending, and the reckless use taxpayer money. Medicaid is an ever-expanding and unsustainable Federal-State program that is not authorized under Article I, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.

“Free” School Meals  |  SB4

SB4, the “Healthy Hunger-Free Students’ Bill of Rights Act,” expands “free” meals to all public, charter, and private school students attending schools that participate in the national school breakfast and lunch programs.     

The Senate passed SB4 on March 4, 2023, by a vote of 35 to 0. We have assigned minuses to the yeas because neither feeding children nor educating them is the role of the government; rather, each of these responsibilities belongs to a child’s parents or family. Not only does charity have no part in the duty of government, but there can be no such thing as a “free” meal that comes at “no cost.” The reality is that this type of ‘cradle-to-grave’ program relies on the unconstitutional theft of taxpayer money for use on behalf of some citizens (particularly those who have little or no tax liability) at the expense of others—resulting in more debt, dependency, and poverty. The hard-working people of New Mexico should not be forced to fund all that now entails a compulsory, failing, and state-administered K-12 school system.

“Diversity Act”  |  SB226

SB226 would establish a “chief diversity officer” for New Mexico, along with a “workforce diversity and inclusion council,” and direct state agencies to address the problem of “institutional racism.”   

The Senate passed SB226 on February 28, 2023, by a vote of 27 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill would lead to the formation of a state-controlled and operated “diversity” police, with the intent of forcing compliance on anyone it deems “racist” (e.g., supporters of free-market capitalism or traditional marriage). At its core is the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) movement, which is nothing but a modern and subtle outgrowth of efforts by earlier Marxist radicals to alter or destroy the American way of life via a ‘long march through the institutions.’ The goal is a complete disruption of our moral, social, political order so as to impose conformity on citizens and end all opposition to the welfare state—the ‘modus operandi’ of totalitarian regimes for centuries. As justice in the hands of “social justice” warriors seeking parity in every aspect of life will only lead to tyranny, defenders of liberty should reject the divisive myths and false historical narratives propagated by critical race theorists, feminists, LGBTQ+ activists, etc. Our Constitution’s Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment, in fact, were written to promote the “general Welfare” of all Americans through “equal protection of the laws” respecting private property and freedom of association.   

No Life Sentence for Juvenile Murderers  |  SB64

SB64 eliminates life imprisonment, without release or parole, for juvenile murderers.  

The Senate passed SB64 on February 22, 2023, by a vote of 32 to 8. We have assigned pluses to the nays because justice is the overall purpose of civil government. The State of New Mexico has a dual role of securing the “unalienable” right to life, liberty, and property while punishing anyone responsible for depriving it. Young adult offenders (e.g., 16 or 17-year-olds) who have reached an age of discretion can only themselves be held accountable for their own actions. Punishment for one’s crimes must be borne by that person, and failed parenting is not an excuse for first-degree murder. The U.S. Constitution’s “due process” and “equal protection” requirements follow the Common Law retributive principle that ‘the punishment should fit the crime.’ Serious crimes, especially murder, demand capital punishment, and thus are worthy of no less than life imprisonment without release or parole.

State-Sponsored Abortion and Sex Mutilation  |  HB7

HB7 provides that state or local entities “shall not deny, restrict, or interfere” with a person’s ability to access “reproductive health care,” such as “abortion,” or “gender-affirming health care.”

The House passed HB7 on February 21, 2023, by a vote of 38 to 31. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the care of human life—not its destruction—is the greatest responsibility of government. New Mexico ought to forbid all methods of abortion and prohibit the practice of sex mutilation. No person has the right to kill or harm a child using the pretext of “reproductive health” or “gender identity.” Both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution affirm the fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right to life and limb of every person. Therefore, each of the several States has a duty to defend the basic humanity of all its citizens, especially the preborn and minors.

Public Project Revolving Fund  |  SB37

SB37 appropriates $14.22 million from the public project revolving loan fund in 2023, $6.72 million to the drinking water state revolving loan fund to provide state matching funds for the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, $2.5 million to the wastewater facility construction loan fund to match funds for the federal Clean Water Act projects and $5 million to the cultural affairs facilities infrastructure fund.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed SB37 on February 14, 2022 by a vote of 66 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because state taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund unconstitutional programs, especially if they feed into the liberal agenda.

General Appropriation Act  |  HB2

HB2 makes recurring general fund appropriations for fiscal year 2023 of $8.48 billion, up 13.9 percent from 2022. This includes $3.87 billion for public schools, which is a $424.9 million, or 12.3 percent, increase from the prior year.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB2 on February 14, 2022 by a vote of 37 to 3. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this budget greatly expands the size of government and invests more into the country’s failing public-school system, which is indoctrinating our children with Marxist ideology.

“Equality New Mexico Day”  |  HM38

HM38 commemorates the “founding of equality” in New Mexico for “lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer individuals,” the validation of “same-sex marriages,” and the “defeat” of “anti-transgender bills.”

The House passed HM38 on February 8, 2023, by a vote of 47 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because homosexual behavior and “same-sex marriages” should be illegal in New Mexico, not memorialized. Being contrary to the “Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God,” the grossly illicit, self-inhibiting, and unsanitary acts of sexual perversion inherent to the LGBTQ+ movement are destructive of self-government and the family—the very foundations of a free society. As with abortion, there is nothing in the U.S. Constitution that can be used to support homosexuality because true “equality” under the law means that there can be no appeal to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” for anyone apart from the moral sanctions set forth by “their Creator” who grants them with “certain unalienable Rights.” In other words, the positive standard established by the principles of the American Founding implies the negative prohibition. Despite what the New Mexico House of Representatives declares, no amount of commemoration can make normal or even constitutional that which truth has told us since time immemorial to abominable and shameful.

Increasing Teacher Salaries  |  SB1

SB1 increase the minimum starting pay of the state’s public school teachers by $10,000. That means starting teachers will see their pay rise to $50,000 from $40,000.

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB1 on April 5, 2022 by a vote of 31 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because public education is not a constitutional right. Investing more money in a public education that is indoctrinating our children with Marxist and liberal ideas is a strong misuse of taxpayer funds. Parents should take their children out of public schools.

Increasing Teacher Salaries  |  SB1

SB1 increase the minimum starting pay of the state’s public school teachers by $10,000. That means starting teachers will see their pay rise to $50,000 from $40,000.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed SB1 on April 5, 2022 by a vote of 61 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because public education is not a constitutional right. Investing more money in a public education that is indoctrinating our children with Marxist and liberal ideas is a strong misuse of taxpayer funds. Parents should take their children out of public schools.

Public Project Revolving Fund  |  SB37

SB37 appropriates $14.22 million from the public project revolving loan fund in 2023, $6.72 million to the drinking water state revolving loan fund to provide state matching funds for the federal Safe Drinking Water Act, $2.5 million to the wastewater facility construction loan fund to match funds for the federal Clean Water Act projects and $5 million to the cultural affairs facilities infrastructure fund.

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB37 on February 1, 2022 by a vote of 33 to 0. We have assigned pluses to the nays because state taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund unconstitutional programs, especially if they feed into the liberal agenda.

Clean Fuel Standard Act  |  SB14

SB14 offers tax incentives to fuel producers to encourage lower-carbon fuel production and requires fuel producers to meet certain requirements and emission caps intended to reduce air pollution from the transportation sector, which is also known as a top greenhouse gas producer alongside fossil fuels. This also bill authorizes spending of $650,000 to create a Climate Change Bureau and requires vehicles to meet a minimum 20% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 and 30% by 2040.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives rejected SB14 on February 17, 2022 by a vote of 33 to 33. We have assigned pluses to the nays because it would lead to significant increases in fuel prices, creates more government interference in the free market and advances the Marxist climate change agenda. Businesses should have the freedom to conduct business without the government meddling in their affairs. The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” and government interference in entrepreneurship and private business is in violation of that belief.

Opportunity Scholarship Act  |  SB140

SB140 creates a government subsidized college scholarship program. The estimated 2022 year-end balances for the funds would leave the new opportunity scholarship with $24.5 million.  This bill makes college tuition-free for most New Mexicans and establishes the most wide-reaching tuition-free scholarship program in the United States. 

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed SB140 on February 16, 2022 by a vote of 51 to 17. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the use of taxpayer dollars to provide free college for people is a gross waste of resources. This expands the size of government and embraces Marxism by creating a socialist program. Free college is not a constitutional right.

Community Energy Efficiency Development Block Grant  |  HB37

HB37 increases the affordability of energy utilities to low-income communities by creating a program to increase energy efficiency in low-income homes. Grants established under the bill would be offered to local governments and Indigenous groups to fund such improvements for New Mexicans living in poverty.

The New Mexico State Senate passed HB37 on February 15, 2022 by a vote of 26 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this is a blatant socialist program where taxpayer dollars and wealth are distributed to only benefit specific people in society.

Opportunity Scholarship Act  |  SB140

SB140 creates a government subsidized college scholarship program. The estimated 2022 year-end balances for the funds would leave the new opportunity scholarship with $24.5 million.  This bill makes college tuition-free for most New Mexicans and establishes the most wide-reaching tuition-free scholarship program in the United States. 

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB140 on February 13, 2022 by a vote of 30 to 6. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the use of taxpayer dollars to provide free college for people is a gross waste of resources. This expands the size of government and embraces Marxism by creating a socialist program. Free college is not a constitutional right.

Community Energy Efficiency Development Block Grant  |  HB37

HB37 increases the affordability of energy utilities to low-income communities by creating a program to increase energy efficiency in low-income homes. Grants established under the bill would be offered to local governments and Indigenous groups to fund such improvements for New Mexicans living in poverty.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed HB37 on February 5, 2022 by a vote of 44 to 24. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this is a blatant socialist program where taxpayer dollars and wealth are distributed to only benefit specific people in society.

General Appropriation Act  |  HB2

HB2 makes recurring general fund appropriations for fiscal year 2023 of $8.48 billion, up 13.9 percent from 2022. This includes $3.87 billion for public schools, which is a $424.9 million, or 12.3 percent, increase from the prior year.

The New Mexico State House of Representatives passed HB2 on February 3, 2022 by a vote of 56 to 8. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this budget greatly expands the size of government and invests more into the country’s failing public-school system, which is indoctrinating our children with Marxist ideology.

Clean Fuel Standard Act  |  SB14

SB14 offers tax incentives to fuel producers to encourage lower-carbon fuel production and requires fuel producers to meet certain requirements and emission caps intended to reduce air pollution from the transportation sector, which is also known as a top greenhouse gas producer alongside fossil fuels. This also bill authorizes spending of $650,000 to create a Climate Change Bureau and requires vehicles to meet a minimum 20% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 and 30% by 2040.

The New Mexico State Senate passed SB14 on February 2, 2022 by a vote of 25 to 16. We have assigned pluses to the nays because it would lead to significant increases in fuel prices, creates more government interference in the free market and advances the Marxist climate change agenda. Businesses should have the freedom to conduct business without the government meddling in their affairs. The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” and government interference in entrepreneurship and private business is in violation of that belief.