NMBC Members Spoke - Legislators Listened: SB 319 County IRB Projects and Complaint Process, sponsored by Senator Leavell was heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee late last night. Many of you contacted legislators and the NMBC was in the room to stand and support this bill that expands opportunities for counties to issue Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB).
Call to Action: The Bernalillo County Commissioners plan to vote on a Gross Receipts Tax increase on Tuesday, 2-17-14, TOMORROW evening. Read an Op-Ed by Commissioner Wayne Johnson on the issue HERE.
SB 319 County IRB Projects and Complaint Process, Senator Leavell: This bill expands opportunities for counties to issue Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB) to help spur economic development. That’s a good thing! Current law allows for affected parties to protest, should there be an issue with direct competition. Read more about this issue here.
It was a pleasure to witness the bipartisan action of the Senate Corporations & Transportation committee on Monday afternoon. The committee is chaired by Senator Phil Griego and runs like a well-oiled machine. Legislation is introduced, the audience given an opportunity to express opinions; it is discussed by the committee and a vote is taken.
Legislative Hero says ‘NO’ to Raised Gas Tax and ‘YES’ to Saving our Perm Funds: With so many New Mexicans out of work and struggling to provide for their families, the last thing we need are increased taxes. While some legislators tried to raise taxes on gasoline, Representative Jason Harper was one of those who voted NO and stopped this effort in committee. Rep Harper said, “For the pain we’ll cause New Mexico Families…it’s not really an effective solution.”
Respect for the Public Heroes: The NMBC would like to thank the new Speaker of the House, Representative Don Tripp. For the first time in recent memory, the House is respecting the public’s time with hearings and floor sessions by actually following posted schedules. Rep Tripp promised the public committee meetings would start on time and they have! The House floor has been conducting a shorter session focusing on lighter business in the morning and then working hard on bills in the afternoon after committees have adjourned.
What’s the Problem with Higher Mandated Wages? Increased minimum wages in New Mexico are not good for our employees, for businesses or our economy. Read more HERE.
Bring Jobs to New Mexico without Government-Subsidized Competition
Legislators are currently looking at using more tax money to bring business - and jobs - to New Mexico. No one would disagree that we need to make that happen.
Call to Action, Support HB 32 and HB 79: This Thursday, 1-29-15, at 1:30 PM in Santa Fe, the NM House Safety and Civil Affairs Committee (HSCAC) will hear two pieces of legislation to end the current practice regarding issuance of driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.
Success at the Bernalillo County Commission: Last night, Bernalillo County Commissioners considered a resolution to Congress on a “Fee and Dividend” program concerning CO2 emissions. We are glad to report the vote was 3 – 2, AGAINST the resolution.
There was a great response to the NMBC Call to Action on this issue! Many NMBC members sent emails, made calls and some attended last night’s meeting to give Commissioners feedback. Our VOICE made the difference in stopping this resolution.