The 2026 New Mexico Legislative Session concluded with a sharp partisan divide over public safety, taxes, healthcare, immigration policy, and government expansion. While lawmakers advanced several significant measures, dozens of high-profile proposals were defeated, leaving both sides claiming victories and frustrations.
Key Measures That Passed
Among the most notable bipartisan wins was HB80, which strengthens the state’s Oil and Gas Reclamation Fund. The bill increases dedicated revenue for plugging abandoned wells, accelerates land restoration, and requires annual transparency reporting. Supporters framed the measure as a fiscally responsible way to protect taxpayers from footing the bill for environmental cleanup while maintaining energy production jobs.
Healthcare reforms also featured prominently. HB99 modernized New Mexico’s Medical Malpractice Act by clarifying liability standards and limiting the “stacking” of damage awards when multiple providers are involved. Lawmakers argued the reform would help stabilize malpractice insurance costs and retain physicians in the state. Additionally, SB1 enacted the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, allowing qualified out-of-state doctors to receive expedited licensure in New Mexico — a move aimed at addressing persistent provider shortages, particularly in rural areas.
Public safety legislation included HB61, which increases penalties for aggravated battery against peace officers by elevating certain offenses to second-degree felonies. Lawmakers said the bill strengthens protections for law enforcement personnel.
The House also adopted HR1, creating a bipartisan investigative committee with subpoena power to examine unanswered questions surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s activities at Zorro Ranch and the response of state and local agencies.
Major Bills That Were Defeated
Several controversial measures were halted this session. SB17, dubbed the “Stop Illegal Gun Trade Act,” failed after facing opposition over new regulations on firearm dealers, expanded reporting mandates, and compliance requirements. Opponents argued the bill would burden lawful businesses without targeting criminals.
Similarly, HJR3, a proposed constitutional amendment establishing enforceable environmental rights, was defeated amid concerns that its broad language could trigger extensive litigation and regulatory challenges.
In the area of crime reform, nearly 25 Republican-backed proposals were introduced addressing fentanyl trafficking, repeat offenders, competency procedures, and expanded victim reparations. Most did not advance out of committee.
Tax reform efforts also stalled. Proposals included eliminating state income tax on tips, reducing taxes on overtime and Social Security income, expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, and creating credits for foster parents and caregivers. None of the comprehensive package reached final passage.
Housing affordability measures — including zero-percent down loans for first-time homebuyers and restrictions on corporate home purchases — also failed to advance.
Controversial Measures That Passed
Democrats advanced several major initiatives that sparked debate.
SB241 expands the state’s childcare assistance system and broadens eligibility, raising concerns among critics about potential oversight challenges and long-term fiscal sustainability.
HB9 restricts public bodies from entering into federal immigration detention agreements, while HB124 establishes a “New Americans Division” within the Workforce Solutions Department.
SB30 repeals abortion reporting requirements previously codified in state law, eliminating certain public health data collection mandates.
Election policy changes came through SB264, which prohibits armed federal personnel from being present at polling locations within 28 days of an election.
Finally, HJR5 advanced a constitutional amendment that would allow legislators to receive a salary of up to $70,000 annually, pending voter approval.
A Session Marked by Division
The 2026 session reflected deep ideological differences over crime policy, taxation, healthcare access, immigration enforcement, election procedures, and the proper scope of government. While lawmakers secured progress in select areas — particularly healthcare licensing reform and energy reclamation — many high-profile initiatives on both sides stalled.
As the legislature adjourned, both parties signaled that these unresolved debates will likely return in future sessions, ensuring that the policy battles of 2026 are far from over. It is also unclear what Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham will sign or veto, or if she may call the Legislature back in for a special session.
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