Maddy summaryHB 337 amends New Mexico's grid modernization grant program to require that the energy department explicitly consider how proposed projects help meet the state's Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) when evaluating applications. The bill directly affects entities applying for grants, including municipalities, schools, universities, tribal nations, and rural communities. It adds RPS compliance as a specific evaluation factor alongside other criteria like grid efficiency, technology innovation, and economic development. This change ensures grant-funded projects actively support New Mexico's renewable energy goals without altering the existing RPS requirements. The amendment integrates RPS considerations into the grant program's assessment process for grid modernization initiatives.
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Maddy summaryHB 326 requires owners or operators of produced water facilities (which handle wastewater from oil and gas drilling) to obtain specific insurance before receiving state permits for treatment, reuse, discharge, or transport of this water. The insurance must cover all foreseeable costs of spills, including cleanup, remediation, long-term monitoring, and public health impacts. It also establishes that multiple parties involved in produced water activities could be held jointly and severally liable for damages caused by their operations. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and applies directly to oil and gas facilities handling produced water.
Maddy summaryThis memorial requests New Mexico's Energy Department to form a working group to design a pilot project installing portable solar devices (which plug directly into wall outlets) in 5-10 low-income households. The project will measure monthly energy cost savings for participants and assess impacts on local power grids. The working group must include utilities and community organizations experienced in serving low-income renters and households. They must report findings to lawmakers by November 2026.
Maddy summarySB 257 requires New Mexico's Department of Environment to prioritize the disposal of hazardous waste generated within the state when issuing, renewing, or modifying hazardous waste permits. This applies specifically to disposal facilities seeking permits under the state's Hazardous Waste Act. The bill amends permit regulations to mandate that the department consider a permittee's capacity to accept and prioritize state-generated waste during these permit decisions. It does not change existing waste standards or fees but modifies how permit approvals are evaluated.
Maddy summaryHB 329 creates the Energy Affordability and Grid Reliability Council to evaluate strategies for keeping electricity and natural gas rates affordable while modernizing the grid. The council, composed of 5 appointed members (including utility, consumer advocacy, and economic development experts) plus utility representatives, will assess regulatory approaches, examine impacts on residential, rural, tribal, and small business customers, and identify best practices. It will develop recommendations for legislative or regulatory action to balance cost containment, reliability, emissions reduction, and grid resilience. The bill appropriates $2 million from the general fund for the council’s operations in fiscal year 2027.
Maddy summaryHB 185 authorizes New Mexico's Public Education Secretary to require local school board members to correct failures in performing legally required duties, such as adhering to school laws or regulations. If a board member doesn't fix the issue within 30 days of written notice, the Secretary may suspend them, with the member able to request a hearing under administrative procedures. During suspension, the Secretary (or a designee) can temporarily vote to break budget deadlocks in the school district. The bill directly affects school board members who neglect statutory duties under the Public School Code.
Maddy summaryHB 100 appropriates $3 million from the state general fund to the Public Education Department for the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Innovation Network during fiscal year 2027. This funding directly supports public schools and educational institutions in New Mexico by financing STEM programs and resources. Any unspent funds at the end of fiscal year 2027 must revert to the general fund. The bill establishes a specific, time-bound funding mechanism without altering existing education policies or creating new requirements for schools.
Maddy summaryHB 29 appropriates $8 million from New Mexico's general fund to the Military Base Impact Fund for fiscal year 2027 and future years. This funding directly supports military bases in New Mexico by providing dedicated financial resources to address impacts from military operations. The bill ensures any unspent funds at year-end remain in the fund rather than reverting to the general budget. It establishes a permanent funding stream to help communities near military installations manage related costs.
Maddy summaryHB 89 establishes a new computer science teaching endorsement in New Mexico, allowing educators to teach computer science at all grade levels. To qualify, teachers must meet one of several requirements, including 15 college credits in computer science, two years of industry experience, or 60 hours of relevant professional development. The bill appropriates $250,000 for quantum computing-focused professional development to support teachers seeking or maintaining this endorsement. This requirement directly affects current and future New Mexico teachers who wish to add computer science to their teaching license.
Maddy summaryHB 49 increases penalties for felons who receive, transport, or possess firearms or destructive devices in New Mexico. It specifically raises the penalty for first-time felon firearm possession from a third-degree felony to a second-degree felony, and to a first-degree felony for repeat offenses. The bill applies directly to individuals convicted of felonies who have not completed their sentence, probation, or received a pardon within the past ten years. Key provisions clarify definitions of "serious violent felon" and "destructive device" while raising criminal charges for violations. This policy change aims to strengthen restrictions on firearm access for certain convicted individuals.