TECO Energy Acquisition of NM Gas Co – PRC Hearing: The NM Public Regulation Commission (PRC) began a public hearing on Monday, 3/24/14, to consider the merits of the proposed acquisition of the NM Gas Company (NMGC) by TECO Energy, Inc. The New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) was at the hearing and testified in support of this transaction. We have seen the documentation that shows the value to the state as a whole and all NMGC customers. The NMBC turned in over 125 signatures in support of TECO and want to thank Sylvia Bokor, Jack Bent and others who went out of their way to speak up for the cause of free enterprise in NM. Read more about the hearing HERE.

TECO Energy, a Fortune 500 company, wants to buy and operate the NM Gas Company. New Mexicans will benefit from this acquisition through lower rates and a long-term commitment to quality service by a company that brings cutting-edge expertise for new opportunities.

Albuquerque Bernalillo Air Quality Permit Petition by SOP: The Petition to add costs and regulations to every Air Quality Permit (including Fugitive Dust & Generator Permits) was denied last Wednesday on a vote of 6 to 1 by the Albuquerque Bernalillo Air Quality Control Board.

The New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) works to promote and foster a pro-business environment in which all businesses can flourish and help build the economy of New Mexico. In that spirit, we support businesses like TECO Energy, who have been successful in Florida and want to expand their company to New Mexico.

We have a critical issue before the Santa Fe City Council tomorrow, Wednesday, 3/12/14. The New Energy Economy proposal will be voted on by the Santa Fe City Council, after a short presentation.

Background and explanation

What a GREAT BASH (Business and Social Hour): The standing room only crowd at the New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) BASH last night was energized by a fun and informative event featuring Lt. Governor John Sanchez. The room was packed with business leaders, elected and appointed officials, and community leaders.

Wake Up Tomorrow with the NMBC and Larry Ahrens: The New Mexico Business Coalition President (NMBC), Carla Sonntag, will be the guest tomorrow, March 5, at 7:15 am on the television show ‘The Morning Brew With Larry Ahrens.’ The Morning Brew is an independently produced local TV talk show in Albuquerque, NM and airs weekday mornings at 7 am on Comcast channel 27. Tune in tomorrow morning to get more information on the New Mexico Business Coalition.

Election Day is Tomorrow, Tuesday March 4. There are multiple municipal elections tomorrow, Tuesday March 4. We encourage you to exercise your right to vote. Here is a starting point for voting information.

The New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) is hosting the BASH on March 6, 2014 , at the Albuquerque Country Club, from 4:30 – 6:30 pm . Limited seating available, RSVP NOW. Early bird pricing ($10) ends March 5, tickets at the door will be $15.

LAST CHANCE to let the IRS know the Proposed Rule for 501 C(4) Organizations would violate the US Constitution on Freedom of Speech. The proposed IRS regulations, “Guidance for Tax-Exempt Social Welfare Organizations on Candidate-Related Political Activities”, would restrict groups from engaging in voter registration drives, candidate debates, voter guides, voting records and key votes. They would restrict any criticism of an incumbent federal, state, or local politician within 30 days of a primary or 60 days of a general election. The deadline to make your voice heard is TODAY at Midnight. Please give written objections to the proposed IRS rule HERE.