- Rocket Docket: There were 42 bills that passed both chambers and were signed by the Governor on 2/4/19. These were bills that were vetoed by Governor Martinez after receiving widespread support by both chambers. This is record speed for that many bills signed into law this early in the session. But understand that there are many bills flying through the House on their own personal ‘rocket docket’, by a majority that won’t be slowed down or held back.
- Taxes and our government: In his infinite wisdom, President Ronald Reagan summed up the government’s view of the economy in a few short phrases: “If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.” It is unfortunate how true this is in New Mexico. Our legislature is trying to squeeze every last dime out of us they can. NMBC stopped two GRT tax bill increases and worked with others to stop a corporate tax increase. The problem is after you stop one, four more pop up to take its place.
- Energy: The sky is falling, no wait, it’s got a big hole and life as we know it will end if we don’t stop using the resources in our earth. One bill introduced would stop fracking, which would, of course, take away over a third of the state’s budget. Then what? There is also a move to a significantly higher renewable energy requirement for our electric companies and we’re anticipating attempts to increase methane and other regulation.
- Minimum Wage: A study by Washington University on minimum wage was very enlightening. There is more from this study that you can read about HERE, but here is an important take away that should not be missed. From an employer’s perspective, each $1/hour increase in minimum wage costs the employer approximately $2,600/year per employee. So if New Mexico’s statewide minimum wage increases from $7.50 to $10, it will cost employers $6,500/year per employee in those brackets.
- University of New Mexico: In the past, we’ve written about mismanagement of funds and the continual expansion in light of declining enrollment. We are sorry that some sports teams got cut from the UNM lineup, but we believe this is an issue that needs to be addressed by the Regents and not a new bailout requirement of the state. UNM needs to get a public memo (the same way APS did on Tuesday) that they need to clean up their administration. Bailouts lead to further dependence and won’t address the root cause of the issues.
NMBC will continue to speak boldly for the good of New Mexicans. We’re here for YOU and supported by voluntary contributions ONLY – never by your tax dollars.
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