SANTA FE, NM — This November, New Mexicans will decide whether to change the state constitution to provide state legislators with an annual salary. House Joint Resolution 5 (HJR 5), which recently passed the Legislature, officially places the issue of legislative compensation in the hands of the voters. The Proposal: What is HJR 5? If approved, New Mexico legislators would receive an annual salary of $67,800. This amount is tied to New Mexico’s median household income and would be adjusted automatically based on U.S. Census Bureau figures. Currently, New Mexico is the only state in the nation where legislators do not receive a base salary. However, they are currently compensated through: Under HJR 5, the new $67,800 salary would be added on top of these existing per diem, mileage, and

More than 1,000 Albuquerque residents responded to NMBC’s call to action, sending letters to city councilors opposing the proposed Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) increase. As a result of this strong community response, the measure was defeated in an 8–1 vote. This outcome highlights the impact of engagement from local businesses and residents working together to advocate for policies that support economic growth and stability. NMBC thanks all who took action and encourages continued involvement in future advocacy efforts.