Housing (Tenant Rights)

SB 138 repeals a state law that has prohibited New Mexico cities and towns from enacting rent control on privately owned housing. This bill directly affects local governments, removing a legal barrier that has prevented them from creating rent control policies since 1991. The key mechanism is the repeal of Section 47-8A-1 NMSA 1978, which previously banned municipalities from passing such ordinances. If passed, this would allow cities and towns to develop their own rent control rules for private rental properties.

HB 190 appropriates $1 million from the general fund to New Mexico's Workforce Solutions Department for fiscal year 2027 to provide eviction prevention and housing assistance specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness. The bill directly affects LGBTQ+ New Mexicans facing housing instability by funding targeted support services. Key provisions include mandatory use of funds for housing-related aid during 2027, with any unspent balance reverting to the general fund by year-end. The legislation focuses on concrete funding allocation without altering eligibility rules or creating new mandates.