Do legislative staffers deserve a one-time payment of $300.00 for working in the Capital during January – March of 2021 before COVID-19 vaccines were widely available? Senate Bill 439, says yes! Without wading into the veracity if the payment is warranted or not, NM State Auditor Brian Colón has published a determination that the payment proposed under Senate Bill 439 is unconstitutional.

Many New Mexicans worked under COVID conditions and restrictions where they had to be tested for COVID before working, filled out health questionnaires every day, were required to wear masks, social distance, and even work from home, but they aren’t receiving extra money. It was just a part of “doing their job”. 

NMBC applauds State Auditor Brian Colón for holding our state accountable and for taking action to stop this payment, not because workers, whether public or private deserve a bonus or not, but because tax payment dollars are being used.

Our passion and work at NMBC is to improve the quality of life for all New Mexicans and that includes holding elected officials accountable with tax payer dollars.