New Mexico is preparing for its upcoming 60-day legislative session, with state agencies submitting budget requests to the Legislative Finance Committee. Key departments like tourism, veterans’ services, and the environment are seeking significant funding increases to address staffing shortages and critical projects.
The New Mexico Tourism Department, led by Acting Secretary Lancing Adams, is asking for a 3.3% budget increase, amounting to $790,000 for new positions.
Additionally, they are seeking $16 million for marketing efforts, $2 million for a centralized state agency marketing office, and $2 million for litter clean-up campaigns.
The New Mexico Environment Department is requesting nearly $474 million, including $150 million for non-superfund site clean-up and $250 million for strategic water supply projects.
The Veterans’ Services Department is focused on hiring a social worker for the Suicide Prevention Act and improving veterans’ cemeteries, with a total request of more than $20 million. The department also aims to build a new Veterans Resource Center.
The New Mexico Indian Affairs Department is seeking half a million dollars to increase its staff and enhance coordination with other state agencies. Lastly, the Regulation and Licensing Department is requesting additional funding for vehicles and compliance officers to support the Cannabis Control Division.
These budget requests will be considered in the upcoming legislative session.