CREATE OFFICE OF BORDER SECURITY

SB 257 creates a new Office of Border Security within New Mexico to coordinate border security efforts with federal and local governments. The office will manage construction, security, and maintenance of a physical border fence along New Mexico's border with Mexico, using powers like eminent domain to acquire land and a dedicated $6 million fund ($4 million for fence coordination, $2 million for operations) appropriated from the state general fund through 2029. This bill directly affects landowners near the border and local governments involved in border security projects. The office must coordinate with federal authorities and will disburse funds through state treasury warrants, with unused funds reverting to the general fund by 2029.