FORMER LEGISLATORS AS LOBBYISTS

SB 72 prohibits former New Mexico state legislators from accepting compensation as lobbyists for two years after their term ends. It also bans employers from paying former legislators to lobby during this period. The bill requires lobbyists to disclose in their registration whether they served as a legislator within the past two years, and mandates that the Secretary of State notify employers if a lobbyist has recent legislative experience. These provisions apply to all legislators serving on or after January 1, 2027, and become effective January 1, 2027. The law aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest by creating a cooling-off period for legislators transitioning to lobbying roles.