STATEWIDE PUBLIC HEALTH AND CLIMATE PGM

HB 108 creates a new statewide public health and climate program within New Mexico's Department of Health, requiring it to launch by January 2026. The program directs the Environmental Health Epidemiology Bureau to improve collaboration on health equity and climate adaptation, help communities develop resilience plans, provide climate and health expertise to local councils, and prioritize engagement with communities most impacted by extreme weather. It appropriates $1.1 million from the general fund for the program in fiscal year 2026, with unspent funds reverting to the state treasury. The bill directly affects the Department of Health, local public health councils, tribal communities, and residents in areas vulnerable to climate impacts.