A contentious piece of legislation has emerged in New Mexico, where the House of Representatives passed House Bill 9 on Friday. The bill, which prohibits local governments from contracting with the federal government to detain undocumented immigrants and others with pending immigration cases, has drawn sharp criticism from Republican Senator Jim Townsend of Artesia. He expressed his dismay in a Facebook post, stating that the bill would lead to the loss of approximately 1,000 jobs in the state.
Townsend characterized the actions of the Democratic majority as prioritizing political opposition to former President Donald Trump over the welfare of New Mexicans. He claimed that the bill was motivated by “hate” rather than a concern for constituents, labeling the situation as “shameful” and “absolutely disgusting.” His remarks reflect a broader tension within the state legislature, where partisan divisions are increasingly evident.
The bill’s passage occurred primarily along party lines, with three Democrats joining Republicans in opposition. Townsend shared a conversation with a Democratic representative who expressed that the political climate, particularly referencing events in Minneapolis, influenced her vote in favor of the bill. In response to the legislation, Townsend has reached out to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, seeking federal intervention to block the bill.
The legislative session, which is currently at its halfway point, has been described as rapid and intense. Freshman Senator Steve Lanier remarked, “It is a jet pack, man,” highlighting the quick pace of discussions and decisions.
As legislators navigate this politically charged environment, attention will soon turn to Senate Bill 18, also known as the Clear Horizons Act. This proposed legislation is set to be addressed by the Senate Conservation Committee on the morning of January 30, 2024. The bill aims to formalize New Mexico’s emission reduction targets and has garnered support from diverse coalitions seeking stability and clean air for families.
However, the Clear Horizons Act faces significant opposition, particularly from the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association (NMOGA), which has mounted a campaign against the proposal both in media advertisements and public discourse. One such ad circulating on social media features images of Democratic senators on the committee, urging voters to “TELL THESE SENATORS NOT TO RAISE YOUR COST OF LIVING.”
NMOGA argues that the Clear Horizons bill would have detrimental effects on the state’s economy, claiming it would increase living costs for every resident. Their sponsored advertisements call on individuals to express their concerns to lawmakers, particularly targeting committee chair Sen. Liz Stefanics of Cerrillos.
As these issues unfold, the balance between economic impact and political ideology remains a contentious battleground in New Mexico’s legislative landscape. The outcomes of these bills could significantly influence both the state’s job market and its environmental policies, making the coming weeks critical for residents and lawmakers alike.
