STATE EMPLOYEE SALARIES, LEAVE & RETENTION

HB 264 would adjust minimum state employee salaries annually starting July 2026 using inflation data (consumer price index), ensuring raises keep pace with cost-of-living increases. It establishes new annual leave accrual rates based on years of service (e.g., 4.62 hours per pay period for under 3 years) and guarantees 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave for eligible employees following birth, adoption, or custody of a child. The bill also creates a remote work policy to support recruitment and retention, requiring remote positions to be based in New Mexico and maintaining standard work expectations. These provisions apply to most state employees, though collective bargaining agreements may override specific terms.