Sen. Bill O’Neill, D-Albuquerque, signs the name plates for Sen. Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, behind him, and Sen. Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswell, far left, on the Senate floor on Thursday. Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, right, is congratulating Pirtle and Moores who are two of several senators retiring from the Senate this year.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, shakes hands with House Speaker Javier Martínez, D-Albuquerque, after a news conference Thursday at the end of the 2024 legislative session. State lawmakers approved a record-setting $10.2 billion budget last week, a 6.8% increase from last year, aided by about $3.5 billion of surplus revenues primarily from oil and gas development.
House Min. Floor Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, shakes hands with Rep. Luis Terrazas, R-Silver City, after they and other House Republicans held a news conference at the end of the legislative session Thursday in Santa Fe.
House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, center, and other House Republicans hold a news conference after the end of New Mexico’s legislative session Thursday in Santa Fe.
From left, state Rep. Angelica Rubio, D-Las Cruces, Rep. D. Wonda Johnson, D-Church Rock, and House Speaker Javier Martínez, D-Albuquerque, talk after they and other House Democrats held a news conference after the end of New Mexico’s legislative session on Feb 15. Martínez says House Democrats took a holistic approach to community safety during the 30-day session.
House Speaker Javier Martínez, D-Albuquerque, right, and other House Democrats hold a news conference after the end of New Mexico’s legislative session on Thursday in Santa Fe.
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, right, does a dance after he received the Milagro Award from Senate leadership. The awards is given to two senators each year. Sen. Pat Woods, R-Broadview, also received it this year.
Sen. Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, right, hugs Sen. Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswell, after Pirtle was honored Thursday on the Senate floor. Pirtle and Moores are two of several senators retiring from the Senate this year. State lawmakers spent much of the last day of the 30-day session on announcements and miscellaneous matters.
Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, packs up around 50,000 of the 105,000 online petitions he said that were received against Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act. The bill failed 34-36 to pass during a vote on the House Floor Wednesday.
Rep. Christine Chandler, D-Los Alamos, and other representatives, console each other after Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act, failed to pass the House on Wednesday.
Representative Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, with Sec. of Workforce Solutions Sarita as an expert witness, debates Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act, on the House Floor, Wednesday, February 14, 2024. The bill failed to pass 34-36 during the vote.
Environment Secretary James Kenney leaves a Senate Conservation Committee hearing after Senate Bill 292, a measure to create a strategic water supply program, was moved on to the Senate Finance Committee on Wednesday with no recommendation.
Sen. Elizabeth Stefanics, D-Cerrillos, listens as Environment Secretary James Kenney, right, and Rebecca Roose, senior infrastructure adviser to the governor, left, present a bill to create a strategic water supply program to the Senate Conservation Committee on Wednesday.
From left, State Engineer Mark Hamman, Environment Secretary James Kenney, and Rebecca Roose, senior infrastructure adviser to the governor, present Senate Bill 292, a measure to create a strategic water supply program, to the Senate Conservation Committee on Wednesday.
In the Senate Finance Committee room, where normally the dollar amounts are rubbed out, Archbishop John Wester rubs ashes on the forehead of Doris Ortiz, the administrative assistant for Sen. George Munoz, Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Wester is at the Roundhouse for the Catholic ceremony of Ash Wednesday. Sen. Pete Campos, left, was assisting Wester.
In the Senate Finance Committee room, where normally the dollar amounts are rubbed out, Archbishop John Wester rubs ashes on the forehead of David Pacheco, with Building Services, Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Wester is at the Roundhouse for the Catholic ceremony of Ash Wednesday. Sen. Pete Campos, left, was assisting Wester.
Senate Maj. Floor Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, right, with Sen. Maj. Whip Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, asks senators Wednesday to concur to the changes made by the House to Senate Bill 5, which would prohibit firearms near polling places.
Sen. Pete Campos, D-Las Vegas, right, shakes hands with former Sen. Stuart Ingle, while he is being honored in the Senate Chambers on Tuesday. Ingle, of Portales, represented five counties — Chaves, Curry, De Baca, Lea and Roosevelt — in District 27, and served as a state senator since 1985 before retiring last October. Ingle served from 2001 to 2020 as minority leader, plus years as whip and caucus chairman in his nearly 40 years at the Legislature. Ingle was the longest-serving legislator when he stepped down, and now Campos is the senior lawmaker in the state Capitol.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, presents a proclamation to former Sen. Stuart Ingle, while he is being honored in the Senate Chambers on Tuesday. The Portales senator represented five counties in District 27, Chaves, Curry, De Baca, Lea and Roosevelt, and served as a state senator since 1985 before retiring last October. Ingle served from 2001 to 2020 as minority leader, plus years as whip and caucus chairman in his nearly 40 years at the Legislature.
Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, left, congratulates former Sen. Stuart Ingle while he is being honored in the Senate Chambers, Tuesday, February 13, 2024.
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Riley Gaines, center, an NCAA swimmer, Rep. Andrea Reeb, R-Clovis, and others hold a news conference on the steps of the Roundhouse on Tuesday. They were pushing for the Women’s Bill of Rights Act, sponsored by five Republican women, which would define male and woman as well as separate sexes in certain situations, such as athletic competitions. The legislation isn’t germane to this session and will likely die, but Reeb said they’ll reintroduce it in the next session.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, left, tells stories about former Sen. Stuart Ingle while he is being honored in the Senate Chambers, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. The Portales senator represents five counties in District 27, Chaves, Curry, De Baca, Lea and Roosevelt, and has served as a state senator since 1985 before retiring last October. Stuart served as minority leader, whip and caucus chairman in his nearly 40 years at the legislature.
Rep. Derrick Lente, left, D-Sandia Pueblo, talks with Ismael Torres, the Legislative Finance Committee’s chief economist, before presenting House Bill 134 to the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday.
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Espanola, talks with Sen Nancey Rodriguez, D-Santa Fe, on the Senate Floor, Tuesday, February 13, 2024.
Charle Sallee, Legislative Finance Committee director, Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, center, and Sen. George Muñoz, D-Gallup, talk Tuesday on the Senate floor.
Sen. President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, waits on the Senate floor Tuesday to present HB41, a bill the set new clean fuel standards in the state.
Sen. President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, talks with Sen. William Soules, D-Las Cruces, on the Senate floor as she presents HB41, a bill the set new clean fuel standards in the state, on Tuesday.
Sen. Nancy Rodriguez, D-Santa Fe, serves on the Senate Finance Committee, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Rodriguez is sponsoring the capital outlay bill.
Sen. Nancy Rodriguez, D-Santa Fe, serves on the Senate Finance Committee, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Rodriguez is sponsoring the capital outlay bill.
Sen. George Munoz, D-Gallup, stands with James Schmedes, 9, left, and Jacob Schmedes, 7, sons of Sen. Gregg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, to illustrate that the state’s budget was written for future New Mexicans. Lawmakers recently approved a record-setting $10.2 billion budget.
Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, comments during debate of the state General Appropriations Act on the Senate Floor, Monday. The budget passed 31-10.
Copies of the state budget, known a the General Appropriations Act, sit on Sen. Michael Padilla’s desk before debate Monday on the Senate floor.
Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, talks in the hall before the floor session Monday where she is to ask for concurrence on a bill to require a 7 day waiting period for firearm purchases.
Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr., D-Jemez Springs, works on the Senate floor Monday during debate of the state’s budget bill, the General Appropriations Act. Shendo later presented House Bill 252, a tax package, to the Senate.
Sen. Crystal Diamond Brantley, R-Elephant Butte, center, holds a moment of silence for Las Cruces Police Department Officer Jonah Hernandez, on the Senate Floor on Monday
The new Albuquerque Public School Superintendent Gabriella Blakey, center, sits with Sen. President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, in the Senate Chambers, Monday February 12, 2024. Blakey was recognized during the start of the floor session.
David Abbey, former director of the Legislative Finance Committee, is greeted by Sen. Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, in the Senate Chambers, Monday February 12, 2024. Abbey was being honored for serving 26 years as director of the LFC.
David Abbey, former director of the Legislative Finance Committee, is honored in the Senate Chambers, Monday February 12, 2024. Abbey spend 26 years as director of the LFC before retiring last year.
Senator Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, and Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, present HJC/HB 129, a bill to increase the waiting period for background checks when purchasing a firearm. The bill is being heard of the Senate Floor, Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Sen. Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswel, questions the sponsors of HJC/HB 129, a bill to increase the waiting period for background checks when purchasing a firearm. The bill is being heard of the Senate Floor, Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Sen. Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, right, talks with Sen. Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, on the Senate Floor on Saturday. Cervantes is sponsoring a bill to increase the waiting period for background checks on people purchasing firearms.
Rep. Matthew McQueen, D-Galisteo, debates House Bill 48, a bill to raise the royalties on oil and gas leases in the Permian Basin, on the House floor on Saturday.
Frankie Quintana, who works security for the state Capitol, shovels snow off the walk on the east side entrance Saturday. A couple inches of snow fell around the Roundhouse as lawmakers have less than a week to finish their work in the legislative session.
Bella Rae Smith, 11, from Santa Fe, along with several kids in Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club's Global Warming Express, carry tree limbs and take part in a rally, in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 9, 2024. Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, and other legislators took part in the rally demanding legislation to deal with global warming.
Samia Van Hattum, from Santa Fe, holds a Palestinian flag as she takes part in a rally demanding for a ceasefire in Gaza. Around 200 people attended the rally in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Friday, February 9, 2024. The rally is organized by Jewish Voices for Peace, Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
Luis Garcia, from Santa Fe, wearing a Palestinian flag joins around 200 people at a rally demanding for a ceasefire in Gaza, being held in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Friday, February 9, 2024. The rally is organized by Jewish Voices for Peace, Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
Mara Taub, from Santa Fe, sits with her sign and around 200 people during a rally demanding for a ceasefire in Gaza, being held in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Friday, February 9, 2024. The rally is organized by Jewish Voices for Peace, Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
Senator Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, takes part in a rally demanding for a ceasefire in Gaza. Lopez introduced a memorial in the Senate in support of a ceasefire but it never made it to the floor. Around 200 people attended the rally in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Friday, February 9, 2024. The rally is organized by Jewish Voices for Peace, Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
From left, Iman Abdur Rauf Campos-Marquetti, with Minara Muslim Community Center of Albuquerque, Daniel Dupre, with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Santa Fe, and Ryan Tate, with African American Spiritual Church, in Albuquerque, pray together during a rally demanding for a ceasefire in Gaza. Around 200 people attended the rally in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Friday, February 9, 2024. The rally is organized by Jewish Voices for Peace, Southwest Coalition for Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, talks with Sen. Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, on the Senate floor on Friday. Stewart later presented Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act, on the floor.
Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, presents Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family Medical Leave Act, on the Senate floor on Friday.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham answers questions after signing House Bill 171, to change school graduation requirements, into law in the Governor's Office on Friday.
Rep. G Andrés Romero, D-Albuquerque, left, and Lt. Gov. Howie Morales make statements before Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signs House Bill 171 in the Governor’s Office on Friday.
Andreas Archuleta, right, and Janna Vallo, left, both with NMACT, New Mexico Allied Council on Tobacco, take part in a demonstration in the Rotunda of the Capitol in Santa Fe on Thursday. The group invited members of the community who had lost someone because of a tobacco addiction to tie a ribbon on the rope. They want legislators to increase taxes for e-cigarettes and tobacco products and seek more money for education.
Rep. Jared Hambree, R-Roswell, left, shakes hands with Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino after he fouled Ortiz y Pino and the senator made one of the best shots of the game. This is during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Rep. Art De La Cruz, left, D-Albuquerque, celebrates with Rep. Cristina Parajon, D-Albuquerque, after she made one of the best shot of the game, during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, left, is guarded by Lt. Gov. Howie Morales and Sen. Gregg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Rep. Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, drives to the basket during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Rep. Art De La Cruz, left, D-Albuquerque, and Rep. Jared Hambree, R-Roswell, during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Members of the Senate react to one of the shots of the best shots of the game by Sen, Gerald Ortiz y Pino during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Lt. Gov. Howie Morales playing for the Senate during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Sen. Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswell, and Rep. Harlan Vincent, R-Glencoe, tip off the ball for the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, February 8, 2024.
Senate President Pro Tem. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, cheers on her team during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game, held at Santa Fe Indian School, Thursday, Feburary 8, 2024.
From left, Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, Sen. Gregg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, Sen. Antonio Maestas, D-Albuquerque and other members of the Senate stand for the national anthem before the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game at the Santa Fe Indian School on Thursday. Ortiz y Pino made one of the best shots of the game.
Reps. Tara Lujan of Santa Fe and Rep. Art De La Cruz of Albuquerque celebrate after the House won the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game held at the Santa Fe Indian School on Thursday.
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, waves to his fans in the stands during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game at Santa Fe Indian School on Thursday.
New Mexico Senate Chief Clerk Cheri Lujan proudly waves the Senate flag during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game on Thursday.
Sen. Antonio “Moe” Maestas, D-Albuquerque, left, is closely guarded by Rep. Luis Terrazas, R-Silver City, even before has resumed at the Legislative Basketball Game on Thursday.
From left, Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, Sen. Greg Nibert, R-Portales, and Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, spend a moment on the floor after they tumbled during a fight for the ball.
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, right, chair of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, finds referee Jude Torres’s math of a play that gave the Senate a basket and two free throws a bit dubious during the Legislative Basketball game on Thursday.
From left, Sens. Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, and Gregg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, battle Reps. Luis Terrazas, R-Silver City, Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and Art De La Cruz, D-Albuquerque, for a rebound during the Legislative Basketball Game.
Sen. Antonio Maestas, D-Albuquerque tries to find a way through the flailing arm defense of Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, and House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, during the 2024 Hoops 4 Hope Legislative Basketball game at Santa Fe Indian School on Thursday.
Sen. Elizabeth “Liz” Stefanics, D-Cerrillos, presents Senate Bill 17, the Health Care and Delivery and Access Act, on the Senate Floor on Thursday.
Jacqueline Ortiz, left, and Tina Ortiz, both from Albuquerque, hold signs with photos of Israeli citizens being held as hostages by Hamas. This is during a rally in support of Israel, held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho, and Rabbi Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad. Several legislators spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Senate Chaplain Rick Iannucci, left, stands with Rabbi Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad, during a rally in support of Israel, held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Levertov and Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho. Several legislators spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Senate Chaplain Rick Iannucci, left, Father Jim Gordon, a retired Episcopal priest, and Barney Carbajal, with Christians United for Israel, give a prayer during a rally in support of Israel being held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad, and Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho. Several legislators spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Lea Koshkin, from Albuquerque, takes part in a rally in support of Israel being held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad, and Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho. Several legislators spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Dr. Richard Lieberman, from Santa Fe, takes part in a rally in support of Israel, being held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad, and Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho. Several legislators spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Senator Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho, center, hugs Rabbi Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center-Chabad, during a rally in support of Israel, being held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The rally that drew around 120 people and was organized by Levertov, and Brandt. Several legislators, including Sen. Jeff Steinborn, D-Las Cruces, spoke or attended the event that marks 4 month since Hamas attacked Israel.
Representative Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, left, talks with Rep. Tara Lujan, D-Santa Fe, and G. Andres Romero, D-Albuquerque, during debate of a tax package he's sponsoring on the House Floor, Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, left, with Sen. Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, testifies in support of Senate Bill 71, that would create an Office of Housing, in the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee, Wednesday, February 7, 2024. Lujan Grisham has not testified to a legislative committee since she pushed for money for early childhood education in 2019. The committee voted 5-4 to advance the bill the Senate Finance Committee with no recommendation.
Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms Lenny Roybal sings a song for people in the mailroom at the state Capitol on Wednesday. Roybal, who is also retired from a career as a basketball coach in northern New Mexico, was wandering around the Roundhouse singing to people as the Legislature enters its last week.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, is honored with the 2024 Earth Science Achievement Award for Public Service and Public Policy, during an event in the Rotunda of the State Capitol, Monday, February 5, 2024. The award by the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources was created in 2003, to honor outstanding contributions advancing the role of earth science in areas of public service and public policy.
Eddie Moore /Journal Betty, a space mining rover project, is driven through the Rotunda of the Roundhouse during New Mexico Tech Day at the Legislature on Monday in Santa Fe.
TOP: Narges Bagheri, a Ph.D. student in mechanical engineering at New Mexico Tech, shows off one of the drones being worked on at the school during New Mexico Tech Day at the Legislature in Santa Fe on Monday. The drones would be used to monitor wildlife.
House Majority Whip Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, left, talks with Rep. Susan Herrera, D-Embudo, on the House floor before the start of a floor session in the 2024 Legislature.
Army Veteran Beverly Charley, the tribal liaison for the Department of Veterans' Services, wears an Army skirt during a celebration of Military and Veterans Day of the Legislature, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several vendors with veteran's services lined the wings next to the Rotunda during the event.
Vietnam Veterans Juan Jacquez, from Santa Fe, wears a Purple Heart he received for spending 4 years as prisoner of war. This is during a celebration of Military and Veterans Day of the Legislature, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Jacquez was 2 weeks from coming home when he was captured. Several vendors with veteran's services lined the wings next to the Rotunda during the event.
Vietnam Veterans Avelino Calabaza, from Santa Domingo, left, Jerry Martinez, from Santa Fe, listen to speakers during a celebration of Military and Veterans Day of the Legislature, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several vendors with veteran's services lined the wings next to the Rotunda during the event.
LEFT: Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart presents Senate Bill 3, the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, to the Senate Finance Committee at the Capitol on Saturday.
Senator Shannon Pinto, D-Tohatchi, takes part in the 4th annual Indigenous Women's Day, in the Rotunda Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators and tribal leaders spoke at the event.
Carys Herrera, 12, from Santa Fe with Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, performs a hoop dance during the 4th annual Indigenous Women's Day, in the Rotunda Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators and tribal leaders spoke at the event.
Senator Shannon Pinto, D-Tohatchi, speaks during the 4th annual Indigenous Women's Day, in the Rotunda Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators and tribal leaders spoke at the event.
Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, and Rep. Randall Pettigrew, R-Lovington, speak to around 200 people taking part in a Second Amendment rally outside the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators, who oppose bills being considered in the legislature that restrict firearms, spoke during the rally.
Bernadette Martinez, from Albuquerque, and around 200 people take part in a Second Amendment rally outside the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators spoke against bills being considered in the legislature that restrict firearms.
Bryan Small, from Albuquerque, and around 200 people take part in a Second Amendment rally outside the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Several legislators, who oppose bills being considered in the legislature that restrict firearms, spoke during the rally.
Bert Shrecengost, center, and around 200 people take part in a Second Amendment rally outside the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 3, 2024. The rally and heard speeches by several legislators who oppose bills being considered in the legislature that restrict firearms.
From left, Fabby Espitia stands with her friends George Austin and his son David Austin, all from Albuquerque, during a Second Amendment rally outside the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Saturday, February 3, 2024. Around 200 people attended the rally and heard speeches by several legislators who oppose bills being considered in the legislature that restrict firearms.
Rep. Kristina Ortez, D-Taos, takes a picture of the screen displaying the votes as her bill for clean fuels standards passed the House on Saturday.
Laneeah Shroulote, 7, Darius Tiller, 7, and other members of the Pueblo Dance Group perform on in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 2, 2024. The group, consists of dancers from Laguna, Acoma, Zuni, and Hopi, were taking part of American Indian Day at the Legislature. Tribal leaders and people from around the state took part in the celebration in the Rotunda, and House and Senate Chambers.
Crystalyne Curley, the speaker of the Navajo Nation Council, and Navajo Nation Vice President Richelle Montoya, both the first women to hold those positions, speak to a Rotunda full of people in the Roundhouse on Friday.
From left, Isabella Jock, 14, Shaynce Abeita, 14, Joseph Hayah, 24, and other members of the Pueblo Dance Group perform on in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse on Friday. The group consists of dancers from Laguna, Acoma, Zuni and Hopi, who were taking part of American Indian Day at the Legislature.
Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, talks with Rep. Jared Hembree, R-Roswell, after a floor session where a bill to require a seven-day waiting period to purchase a firearm passed 37-33 on Friday in Santa Fe.
Rep. Art De La Cruz, D-Albuquerque, answers questions about an amendment to change a bill to require a 14-day waiting period to purchase a firearm to seven days on Friday in Santa Fe.
Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, answers questions about the bill on the House floor on Friday.
Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill, D-Silver City, foreground, takes a selfie with actress Jennifer Garner on the Senate floor on Thursday.
Actress Jennifer Garner and Mark Shriver, left, speak to Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, right, and other members of the Senate while being honored in the Senate Chambers, Thursday, February 1, 2024. Garner and Shriver are visiting the Roundhouse in their role with with Save The Children.
Actress Jennifer Garner and Mark Shriver, left, receive pins from Lt. Gov. Howie Morales while being honored in the Senate chamber on Thursday.
Actress Jennifer Garner is honored in the House Chambers by Speaker Javier Martinez, right, and other representatives on Thursday.
Mark Shriver is honored in the House chamber by Speaker Javier Martinez, right, and other representatives on Thursday. Shriver and actor Jennifer Garner visited the Roundhouse as representatives of Save the Children.
Rep. Elizabeth "Liz" Thompson, D-Albuquerque, with actress Jennifer Garner on the House floor on Thursday. Garner was at the Roundhouse representing Save the Children.
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, takes a selfie with actor Jennifer Garner on the Senate floor on Thursday.
Mark Shriver, third from left, and actress Jennifer Garner, center, are greeted by Sens. Daniel Ivey-Soto, D-Albuquerque, left, Nancy Rodriguez, D-Santa Fe, and Carrie Hamblen, D-Las Cruces, on the Senate floor on Thursday. Garner and Shriver visited the Roundhouse in their roles with Save the Children.
John Gutierrez, with Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, and a group of people, some for a ceasefire in Gaza and some in support of Israel, protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Wednesday, January 31, 2024.
Rabbi Berel Levertov, left, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center, stands next to Ken Mayer, center, with Veterans for Peace, and a group people, some for a ceasefire in Gaza and some supporting Israel. This is outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Wednesday, January 31, 2024.
Children Youth and Families Department Secretary Teresa Casados, center, is congratulated by her mother Ruth Ortiz, left, husband Dennis Casados, and Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, right, after being confirmed on the Senate floor on Wednesday.
Children, Youth and Families Department Secretary Teresa Casados, left, is congratulated by Sen. Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, and Sen. Nancy Rodriguez, D-Santa Fe, after being confirmed on the Senate floor on Wednesday.
Children, Youth and Families Department Secretary Teresa Casados listens to people speak in her support during her confirmation hearing in the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday in Santa Fe.
Children, Youth and Families Department Secretary Teresa Casados, center, is congratulated by Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Española, after being confirmed on the Senate floor Wednesday in Santa Fe.
Former Legislative Finance Committee director David Abbey is honored in the House Chambers before the General Appropriations Act is debated on the House Floor on Wednesday in Santa Fe.
Former Legislative Finance Committee director David Abbey watches from the gallery as the General Appropriations Act is passed on the House floor on Wednesday.
From left, Rep. Meredith Dixon, D-Albuquerque, Amanda Dick-Peddie, chief of staff to Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, and Small, pose for a photo after the General Appropriations Act was passed on the House floor on Wednesday.
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, and other Democrats on the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, hold a news conference before the General Appropriations Act is voted on by the House on Wednesday.
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, and other Democrats on the House Appropriations and Finance Committee discuss the General Appropriations Act before it went to vote on the House floor on Wednesday.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, holds a news conference to announce a 50 year plan for water use in New Mexico. Environment Secretary James Kenny, left, is taking part in the news conference is being held in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, holds a news conference to announce a 50 year plan for water use in New Mexico. Sen. Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics, right, is taking part in the news conference is being held in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Rebecca Roose, senior infrastructure advisor to the Governor, and Environment Secretary James Kenney take part in a news conference with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to announce a 50 year plan for water use in New Mexico. The news conference is taking part in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, jokes with speakers during a news conference to announce a 50 year plan for water use in New Mexico. Sen. Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics, right, is taking part in the news conference is being held in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham enters a news conference to announce a 50 year plan for water use in New Mexico. Sen. Elizabeth "Liz" Stefanics, right, in taking part in the news conference is being held in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Manuel Mercure along with several people from Los Lunas, cook carne asada, carnitas, potatoes and more outside the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 30, 2024. They were there feeding legislators and visitor to the State Capitol for Valencia County Day at the Legislature.
Sen. William Soules, D-Las Cruces, center, talks to Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, right, on Tuesday during debate of a bill to restrict people from carrying firearms near polling places. Wirth, Soules and Sen. Majority Whip Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, left, voted in support of the bill that passed on the Senate Floor 26-16.
Shai Nootenboom, left, from Rio Rancho, and other first years students in the UNM College of Pharmacy, pose for a picture in the Rotunda earlier this year.
Michael Anderson, left, and Grant Hanner, right, along with other members of the Abe Frank String Quartet, from University of New Mexico, perform on in the Rotunda, Monday, January 29, 2024. They and others were at the State Capitol at part on UNM Day at the Legislature. Many school officials along with demonstrations were scattered through the building to help celebrate the day.
Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, voices his opposition about money put in the state’s budget to pay legislative staff year-round, during a recent meeting of the House Appropriations and Finances Committee.
Representative Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, center, and other members of the House Appropriations and Finances Committee, approved a spending bill for the state on Monday. The budget now goes to the House Floor to be voted on.
House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, waits the floor session to start, Monday, January 29, 2024. He along with Rep. G. Andres Romero, D-Albuquerque, are sponsoring a bill to change graduation requirements in New Mexico schools.
House Minority Leader Rep. Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, left, and Rep. G Andrés Romero, D-Albuquerque, far right, talk on the House floor on Monday. The two are sponsoring a bill to change graduation requirements in New Mexico schools.
Rep. G Andrés Romero, D-Albuquerque, waits for the floor session to start on Monday.
Antoinette Baldonado, from Albuquerque, Youth Development Inc., tries a virtual reality set connected to New Mexico State University's Global Campus. The virtual reality demonstration, to show what technology is making available and the university's digital twin, was set up next to the Rotunda of the State Capitol, Friday, January 26, 2024.
Judith Rodriguez, left, Marisella Mata, center, both 16, and other flamenco dancers with the ensemble group from Tierra Adentro Charter School in Albuquerque, talk with Chief Clerk of the House of Representative Lisa Ortiz McCutcheon, right, while they wait to dance on the House floor on Friday, January 26, 2024
Representative Jason Harper, R-Rio Rancho, left, and Rep. Matthew McQueen, D-Galisteo, present a joint resolution to change the length of the legislative session to 45 days each year. They are presenting to the House Government Elections and Indian Affairs Committee, Friday, January 26, 2024.
Rep. Natalie Figueroa, D-Albuquerque, center, and Rep. D. Wonda Johnson, left, D-Church Rock, discuss a joint resolution that if passed and approved by the voters, would allow legislators to be paid.
Representative Natalie Figueroa, D-Albuquerque, left, along with expert witnesses Timothy Krebs, center, and Michael Rocca, both UNM professors, listen to public comment while presenting a joint resolution to expand the length of the legislative session to 60 days each year. They are presenting to the House Government Elections and Indian Affairs Committee, Friday, January 26, 2024.
Sen. Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, has voiced opposition to drive-up windows for cannabis businesses.
Sen. Greg Nibert, R-Roswell, debates Senate Bill 69, a bill that if passed will extend background checks for firearm purchases to 14 days, with the bill sponsor Sen. Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, on Friday in Santa Fe.
Sen. Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, right, listens to a comment by Dereck Scott, with the Free Party of New Mexico, during debate of Senate Bill 69, a bill that if passed will extend background checks for firearm purchases to 14 days.
Nora Meyers Sackett, center, director of the State of New Mexico Economic Development’s Office of Strategy, Science and Technology, listens as people speak in support of a bill in the Legislature.
David Perez, board chairman for New Mexico Angels, speaks in support of House Bill 83, that if passed would extend the sunset of the angel investments tax credit through 2030.
Gabe Rice, 10, and his teacher Manuel Crespin, left, talk with Sen. Mo Maestas, D-Albuquerque, on the House Floor during West Side Day at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 25, 2024. They are with a group of 5th graders from Carlos Rey Elementary in Albuquerque.
Nicole Chavez, left, a volunteer, helps Quetzalli Marquez, 10, center, question several legislators talking with kids on the House Floor during West Side Day at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 25, 2024. They are with a group of fifth graders from Carlos Rey Elementary in Albuquerque.
State Rep. Stefani Lord, R-Sandia Park, center, and Miranda Viscoli, co-president of New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence, wait in a crowded hall for the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee to hear three bills related to guns on Thursday. Viscoli spoke in support of the bills. Lord opposed the bills.
Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, and Rep. Stefani Lord, R-Sandia Park, argued against a bill to extend background checks to 14 days and a bill to ban certain large-capacity magazines and assault-type weapons, during the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee meeting on Thursday.
Elaine Summerhill of shakes hands with Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, during the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee meeting on Thursday. Both spoke against a bill to extend background checks to 14 days and a bill to ban certain large-capacity magazines and assault-type weapons.
Sandia High student Penelope Loyd Sment, 16, with Student Demand Action, describes how frighten she is at school as she speaks in support of a bill to ban certain gun magazines and assault-type weapons during the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee on Thursday.
State Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero, D-Albuquerque, talks about a personal experience of someone who was close to her being killed with a high-capacity assault weapon. She, along with Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, center, and Rep. Charlotte Little, D-Albuquerque, right, presented a bill to ban certain large-capacity magazines and some firearms to the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee on Thursday.
The University of New Mexico’s new head football coach, Bronco Mendenhall, is introduced in the New Mexico House Chambers at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe on Wednesday. In December 2023, Mendenhall became the highest paid state employee upon accepting a five-year, $6 million contract to replace Danny Gonzales as head coach of the Lobos. Mendenhall, who was UNM’s defensive coordinator from 1998-2002, accumulated a 135-81 record over 17 seasons as the head coach at BYU and Virginia before stepping away from coaching in 2021.
Talia Pura, president of SAG-AFTRA, from Santa Fe, is introduced in the House Chambers, Wednesday, January 24, 2024.
Naomi Celote de la Cruz and a group of kids with the National Dance Institute's Super Wonderful Advanced Team (SWAT) perform on the Senate Floor, at the Roundhouse, Wednesday, January 24, 2024. The dance school in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, is here to be recognized for being in New Mexico for 30 years. The group danced on both the Senate and House floor.
Bella Rae Smith, 11, and Amarisa Gonzales, 10 wait with members of the National Dance Institute's Super Wonderful Advanced Team (SWAT) to perform on the House Floor, at the Roundhouse, Wednesday, January 24, 2024. The dance school in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, is here to be recognized for being in New Mexico for 30 years. The group danced on both the Senate and House floor.
Arjan Khalsa and a group of kids with the National Dance Institute’s perform on the floor of the House of Representatives in Santa Fe on Wednesday. While some say New Mexico needs a full-time Legislature with year-round staff, opponents argue lawmakers waste a lot of time during legislative sessions watching performances, reciting memorials, gazing at celebrities and singing birthday songs to each other.
Allen Sánchez, Executive Director of the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops, believes that a "cool-down" period for firearms purchases could help stem the state's high suicide rate.
Terri Cole, president of the Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, center, and others raise concerns Wednesday about a bill for paid family and medical leave, in the House Health and Human Services Committee.
From left, Representative Patricia Roybal Caballero, D-Albuquerque, Rep. Christine Chandler, D-Las Alamos, and Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, present a bill for paid family and medical leave to the House Health and Human Services Committee on Jan. 24. State lawmakers have until noon on Feb. 15 to pass legislation in the 30-day session.
Sen. David Gallegos, R-Eunice, questions the sponsor of SB24, a bill that if passed will raise the royalty rate for oil and gas leases in the state, during the Senate Conservation Committee, Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Gallegos voted against the bill.
Sen. Bill Tallman, D-Albuquerque, left, with Sunalei Stewart, deputy commissioner of operations for the State Land Office, as an expert witness, presents SB24, a bill that if passed will raise the royalty rate for oil and gas leases in the state, to the Senate Conservation Committee, Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Sen. Steven Mccutcheon, II, R-Carlsbad, right, voted against the bill.
Charles Goodmacher, left, representing Earthworks, an environmental group, and Joan Brown, center, executive director of Interfaith Power and Life, speak Tuesday in favor of a bill by Sen. Bill Tallman, D-Albuquerque, second from left, to raise the royalty rate for oil and gas leases on state lands.
House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and other Republican members of the New Mexico House of Representatives, hold a news conference to announce they have filed a resolution, that, if passed would allow voters to limit the governor's power over health emergencies. The news conference is being held at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and other Republican members of the New Mexico House, hold a news conference Tuesday to speak about a resolution they filed that, if passed, would allow voters to limit the extent of the governor’s emergency powers.
House Majority Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, center, walks through around 100 people take part in a protest outside the La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe, where the New Mexico Democratic Party is holding its legislative dinner, Tuesday, January 23. Protester with New Mexico Jews for a Free Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine, Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, ABQ4Ceasefire Collective, and Queer Community Care are calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Around 100 people take part in a protest outside the La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe, where the New Mexico Democratic Party is holding its legislative dinner, Tuesday, January 23. Protester with New Mexico Jews for a Free Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine, Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, ABQ4Ceasefire Collective, and Queer Community Care are calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Milo Paterson, from Albuquerque, with the Part of Socialism and Liberation, and around 100 people take part in a protest outside the La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe, where the New Mexico Democratic Party is holding its legislative dinner, Tuesday, January 23. Protester with New Mexico Jews for a Free Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine, Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, ABQ4Ceasefire Collective, and Queer Community Care are calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Around 35 people took part in a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. YUCCA, Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Julia Bernal, with Pueblo Action Alliance, speaks at a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. Around 35 people and speakers with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and other environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Norm Gaume, a water resources engineer, speaks at a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. Around 35 people and speakers with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and other environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Norm Gaume, a water resources engineer, speaks at a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. Around 35 people and speakers with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and other environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Mariel Nanasi, with New Energy Economy, speaks at a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. Around 35 people and speakers with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and other environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Julia Bernal, with Pueblo Action Alliance, speaks at a protest against an initiative by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to development of a strategic new source of water, buying treated water that is the byproducts of oil and natural gas drilling. Then treating it and selling it back to industry. Around 35 people and speakers with Youth United for Climate Crisis Action, New Energy Economy, Wild Earth Guardians, No False Solutions and other environmental groups took part in the protest outside the New Mexico State Capitol, Monday, January 22, 2024.
Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, D-Mesilla, center, talks with a hallway full of people outside her office in the Roundhouse, Monday, January 22, 2024. Immigrant families, low-wage workers, and allies from across the state were lobbying at the Roundhouse in support of expanded skills training and workforce development funding for disadvantaged workers. Around 300 people took part in "Immigrant and Workers Day of Action 2024," that was co-sponsored by Somos Acción, El Centro de Poder y Acción, Café Acción, Voices for Children, Partnership for Community Action and others.
Hennessey Contreras, second from left, from Las Cruces, along with a hall full of people, talk with Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, D-Mesilla, outside her office in the Roundhouse, Monday, January 22, 2024. Immigrant families, low-wage workers, and allies from across the state were lobbying at the Roundhouse in support of expanded skills training and workforce development funding for disadvantaged workers. Around 300 people took part in "Immigrant and Workers Day of Action 2024," that was co-sponsored by Somos Acción, El Centro de Poder y Acción, Café Acción, Voices for Children, Partnership for Community Action and others.
Carlos Menchaca, with the National Institute of Flamenco, and Yjastros: The American Flamenco Repertory Company, performs in the Rotunda of the State Capitol on Monday, January 22, 2024.
Chuck Swaim, from Santa Fe, and around 50 other people, take part in a rally to end a prohibition on rent control. The rally was to support a letter several other legislators asking Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for a bill this session for rent control. The rally is organized by People Housing Project and held near the east entrance to the Roundhouse.
Iman Andrade, center, from Albuquerque, and around 50 other people, take part in a rally to end a prohibition on rent control. The rally was to support a letter several other legislators asking Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for a bill this session for rent control. The rally is organized by People Housing Project and held near the east entrance to the Roundhouse.
Senator Brenda McKenna, D-Corrales, speaks to around 50 other people, taking part in a rally to end a prohibition on rent control. The rally was to support a letter by McKenna and several other legislators asking Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for a bill this session for rent control. The rally is organized by People Housing Project and held near the east entrance to the Roundhouse.
Lila Nezar, third from left, and Roger Kurp, center, both renters from Albuquerque, along with around 50 other people, take part in a rally to end a prohibition on rent control. The rally was to support a letter by several legislators to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham asking for a bill this session for rent control. The rally is organized by People Housing Project and held near the east entrance to the Roundhouse.
Kelly Fajardo, representing American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, speaks against HB41
Camilla Feibelman, director of the Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter, speaks in favor of HB41, the clean transportation fuel standards bill, during the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee meeting, at the State Capitol, Friday, January 20, 2024.
Rep. Kristina Ortez, D-Taos, right, and her expert witness, Environmental Protection Division Director for the New Mexico Environment Department Michelle Miano, present HB41, the clean transportation fuel standards bill, during the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee meeting at the State Capitol on Saturday.
From left, Rep. Debra Sarinana, D-Albuquerque, Rep. Jared Hembree, R-Roswell, Rep. Meredith Dixon, D-Albuquerque, and Rep. Miguel Garcia, D-Atrisco, listen and debate HB41, the clean transportation fuel standards bill, during the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee meeting, at the State Capitol, Friday, January 20, 2024.
New Mexico Supreme Court Justice Michael Vigil, along with other members of the Supreme Court, attend the House Appropriations and Finance Committee meeting to talk about what they say are seriously underfunded parts of the LFC's proposed budget for the Judiciary, Friday, January 19, 2024.
New Mexico Chief Justice Shannon Bacon, along with the other 4 Supreme Court Justices came to the House Appropriations and Finance Committee meeting to talk about what they say are seriously underfunded parts of the LFC's proposed budget for the Judiciary, Friday, January 19, 2024.
New Mexico Chief Justice Shannon Bacon, along with the other four Supreme Court Justices came to the House Appropriations and Finance Committee meeting to talk about what they say are seriously underfunded parts of the LFC's proposed budget for the Judiciary, Friday, January 19, 2024.
In an unprecedented display all five New Mexico Supreme Court Justices attend a meeting of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, Friday, January 19, 2024. Chief Justice Shannon Bacon, left, Justice Briana Zamora, from right, Justice Julie Vargas, Justice David Thomson, and Justice Michael Vigil came to the HAFC meeting to talk about what they say are seriously underfunded parts of the LFC's proposed budget for the Judiciary. With them are Arthur Pepin, director of the Administrative Office of the Courts, second from left, and Mario Semiglia, executive budget and polocy analyst with the Department of Finance and Administration.
Sophie Lopez, 4, left, from Cebolla, and Alayah Tapia, 3, from Santa Fe, play in the lobby of the Governor's Office before attending a news conference in the Governor's cabinet room Thursday, January 18, 2024. They were among several children invited to attending the meeting where the Governor announced she want $60 million for a literacy program.
Aria Padilla, left, and Liamor Padilla, both 5, read books during a news conference in the Governor's cabinet room Thursday, January 18, 2024. They were among several children from Kids Campus at Santa Fe Community College attending the meeting where the Governor announced she want $60 million for a literacy program.
Serenity Castro, 3, from Santa Fe, enjoys story time near the Rotunda in the state Capitol on Thursday.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham plays with a group of kids from a pre-K program in Dulce in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse on Thursday. She was there to speak to kids and families during Early Childhood Day at the Legislature.
During a rally for the “Dignity, Not Detention” bill on Thursday in the state Capitol, people listen to stories by immigrants of being held in detention.
Zoe Bowman, foreground, with Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, translates in English for Liliana Fabiola, in the back, during the “Dignity, Not Detention” rally at the Capitol on Thursday. Fabiola, from Mexico, talked about spending four months in the Otero County Detention Center.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, and other members of the Senate Committees' Committee talk about a list of bill that have been rules germane at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 18, 2024.
Senator Benny Shendo, Jr., D-Jemez Pueblo, center, Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, second from right, Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill, D-Silver City, and other members of the Senate Committees' Committee look over a list of bill that have been rules germane at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 18, 2024.
Allen Sanchez, left, Executive Director of the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Bishop James Wall, with the Diocese of Gallup walk from the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi to the Roundhouse for the annual Sanctity of Life rally, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Several bishops and legislators spoke during the event.
Catholics pray during the annual Sanctity of Life rally, at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The anit-abortion rally started at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and moved to the Rotunda of the State Capitol. Several bishops and legislators spoke during the event.
Juliette Avalos, from El Paso, prays with around 150 people, during the annual Sanctity of Life rally, at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The anit-abortion rally started at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and moved to the Rotunda of the State Capitol. Several bishops and legislators spoke during the event.
Lydia Jaramillo, from Silver City, prays with around 150 people, during the annual Sanctity of Life rally, at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The anit-abortion rally started at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and moved to the Rotunda of the State Capitol. Several bishops and legislators spoke during the event.
John Gutierrez and a group of activist, protesting for a ceasefire in Gaza, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The protesters are from Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more and were reading the names of around 30,000 people killed during the Iraeli Palestinian war.
Rabbi Berel Levertov, with the Santa Fe Jewish Center, walks through a group of activist protesting for a ceasefire in Gaza. Rabbi Levertov gave the opening prayer for the Senate floor session, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. The protesters are from Santa Fe Ad Hoc Committee on Palestine, Santa Feans for Justice in Palestine and more.
Representative Stefani Lord, R-Sandia Park, and Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, talk before the start to the floor session, in the House Chambers, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Lord and Block have file articles of impeachment against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Tuesday.
Representative John Block, R-Alamogordo, waits for the start to the floor session, in the House Chambers, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Block and Rep. Stefani Lord, R-Sandia Park,have file articles of impeachment against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Tuesday.
Representative Stefani Lord, R-Sandia Park, and Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, talk before the start to the floor session, in the House Chambers, Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Lord and Block have file articles of impeachment against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, stands during the National Anthem at the start of the 2024 legislative session, Tuesday, January 20, 2024.
Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho, talks with Sen. Carrie Hamblen, D-Las Cruces, on the Senate Floor before the start of the 2024 legislative session. Brandt pre-filed a Senate bill to challenge the current pretrial detention system by making it a defendant’s responsibility to prove why they should not stay behind bars until trial.
Senate Minority Leader Gregory Baca, R-Belen, give the Republican response to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's State of the State address, at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, and other House Democrats hold a news conference before the start of the 2024 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Lt. Governor Howie Morales and members of the Senate are welcomed into the House Chambers to hear Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham give her State of the State address, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Espanola, takes a photo with members of the Santa Fe High NJROTC before the start of the 2024 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Maegan Pacheco, with Mariachi Euforia, performs on the House Floor before the State of the State address and the start of the 2024 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, left, hugs House Majority Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, before giving the State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate in the House Chambers, Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Chasey's husband, former Attorney General of New Mexico and Speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives David L. Norvell passed away in December.
Representative James Townsend, R-Artesia, is now serving as the Minority Whip in the House. Townsend had been the Minority Leader in the House before the 2023 session.
Protesters with several organizations interrupt Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate in the House Chambers, Tuesday, January 16, 2024. The protesters are protesting for a ceasefire in Palestine and climate change issues.
Senator Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswel, holds his new son Henry on the first day of the 2024, 30 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Carolyn Salazar Nibert pins a rose of her husband Sen. Greg Nibert, R-Roswel, before the start of the 2024, 30 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Nibert, the former House Minority Whip, was appointed to fill the seat vacated by Sen. Stuart Ingle, who retired last year.
Senator Cliff Pirtle, R-Roswel, holds his new son Henry and is surrounded by the rest of his children as he sign the roster on the first day of the 2024, 30 legislative session, Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
Protesters with several organizations interrupt Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s State of the State address on Tuesday.
Senator Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, shows off his boot and son Mark Donald Elipio Moores, 11 months, on the Senate Floor. The first day of the 2024, 30 legislative session, started at noon of Tuesday, January 16, 2024. The boots have the New Mexico Senate seal on them.
Senator Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, hold his son Mark Donald Elipio Moores, 11 months, while talking on the Senate Floor. The first day of the 2024, 30 legislative session, started at noon of Tuesday, January 16, 2024.
House Minority Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and other Republicans sit quietly as Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham delivers her State of the State speech on Tuesday in Santa Fe.
Demonstrators who interrupted the State of the State address were calling for a ceasefire in Palestine and for leaders to address climate change.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham delivers her State of the State address to a joint session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse on Tuesday.
With a sign language interpreter next to her, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham gives her State of the State address to members of the state House and Senate on Tuesday.
