HIGHER EDUCATION RADIO

SB 495 would have established a dedicated nonreverting fund within New Mexico's state treasury to replace equipment at educational television and radio stations operated by state institutions of higher education and public schools. The Higher Education Department would have developed rules for distributing funds via department vouchers, ensuring future appropriations for this purpose wouldn't revert to the general fund without specific language. The bill passed both legislative chambers in March 2025 but received a pocket veto, meaning it did not become law. It directly affected public universities, community colleges, and public schools operating educational broadcast stations.