In the latest National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Outlook survey, 93.3 percent of manufacturers across the nation are either somewhat or very positive about their own company’s outlook, up 77.8 percent from December 2016. It was the second straight quarter where the outlook exceeded its historic average and there were strong gains in confidence for all firm sizes.
The NMBC Farmington Energy BASH (Business and Social Hour) last week, themed “Engaging the Community in Energy”, brought out a huge crowd. Check out this great write up in the Farmington Daily Times about the event: Energy BASH served as forum for energy advocates.
We are glad New Mexicans are ready to engage in our state's future, because YOU are the difference between success and status quo (or worse). We must unite on the side of common sense to defend New Mexico’s most important trades: the extractive industries and energy production.
Farmington Energy BASH with Secretary Ken McQueen, today
Last chance to register for the Farmington Energy BASH (Business and Social Hour), featuring Ken McQueen, Cabinet Secretary, Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources. Seating is limited; 5 seats left. ONLY pre-registered guests will be admitted. Register here.
High interest for the ENERGY BASH by The Farmington Daily Times, read the article here.
Legislative wrap up by NMBC President, Carla Sonntag. Carla will give a summary at the Energy BASH of the good, the bad and the ugly including bills that would impact taxes and energy production in New Mexico. Read more here.
Minimum Wage Call to Action: Governor Martinez is justifiably concerned about signing either minimum wage bill passed by the legislature. One at $9/hour SB386, and one at $9.25/hour HB442 are both problematic in a state that has a stagnant economy and the highest unemployment level in the nation.
We urge you to contact the Governor's office and express your opposition to these bills and encourage the Governor to veto both of them.
Bills passed with strong bipartisan support are being vetoed by the Governor. Some have veto messages and some have no comment.
Senator Brandt started a successful override measure in the Senate on the veto of HB 241 Use of Attendance in Teacher Evaluations. The Senate agreed to override the veto and obtained the necessary two-thirds vote by its members. The measure appears stopped by the House, however, which would also require two-thirds of its members to vote for an override. Rep Gentry, Minority Leader, said he’s confident that the measure will not pass the House.
Last week NMBC provided more information on the multiple proposed minimum wage increases being considered in this legislative session. We asked you, our followers, for your thoughts and feedback, because we care what you think. While the responses we got about NMBC not supporting this legislation were overwhelmingly supportive, we also got a comment that said our stand was 'B.S.'
Congratulations to Senator Neville and all of his colleagues in the Senate for doing the right thing. The Senate passed a bill sponsored by Neville based on what they thought was full and complete information. When Sen Neville received additional information after the fact regarding contributions to the Governor, he immediately notified the full Senate of the new information. The bill was recalled unanimously from the House to be tabled.
Legislative update:
HJR1 Permanent Funds for Early Childhood (Reps Moe Maestas and Javier Martinez) passed the House last night 37-32. This is a “raid the Land Grant Permanent Fund” bill that would be disastrous for the only healthy ‘permanent’ fund remaining in our state.
We applaud the people who voted against this bill. They stood strong in protecting our children’s future by opposing it. Two people went against their party’s support of the measure and we consider them the true heroes. Representatives Bobby Gonzales and Candie Sweetser, thank you for putting New Mexicans ahead of party politics!
Now the state must rely on the Senate to do the right thing and stop this bill. This is a Constitutional Amendment that goes directly to the voters, if passed in both chambers and will bypass the Governor’s veto pen.
Are we helping those who are struggling financially? Some say the increased wage will give them more disposable income to provide for their families. But what about those who make $13-$15/hour to stay home and collect government assistance? Will they re-enter the workforce for $9/hour when faced with childcare and other costs, such as transportation, to take a job?