Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has called a special session of the New Mexico State Legislature for October 1 to address the impact of recent federal funding cuts. The reductions stem from the Trump administration’s budget reconciliation bill, H.R.1, which was signed into law on July 4 and reduces discretionary spending through 2034 while lowering taxes for high-income earners.
The governor’s office says these federal changes will significantly affect programs such as Medicaid, SNAP food assistance, and public broadcasting services in New Mexico. According to state officials, about 40 percent of New Mexicans depend on these programs for health care and food support.
“We’re not going to stand by while Washington abandons New Mexico families,” said Lujan Grisham. “This special session is about protecting the people who need help most.”
Cabinet Secretary Kari Armijo of the Health Care Authority added: “While the new federal law brings significant changes, our focus is clear: protecting benefits and services for the 40 percent of New Mexicans who rely on our programs for health care and food assistance. We’re committed to maintaining a strong safety net through these challenges.”
During the special session, lawmakers will consider several targeted measures:
– Expanding the Rural Health Care Delivery Fund to provide grants in areas with shortages of health professionals.
– Adjusting eligibility requirements for participation in the state health insurance exchange.
– Setting vaccine standards based on recommendations from the Department of Health.
– Appropriating funds in response to recent federal budget cuts.
– Confirming regents for Western New Mexico University.
– Amending competency laws so metropolitan courts can determine competency.
– Funding behavioral health support in legal proceedings through a pilot program.
– Transferring money into an emergency contingency fund.
– Supplementing funding for the Regulation and Licensing Department.
– Preparing for possible implementation of an interstate medical licensing compact.
– Covering legislative expenses related to this special session.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth commented: “The cuts coming from Washington are not theoretical, they are happening now and will directly harm New Mexican families who are struggling to put food on the table or cannot afford healthcare. This special session allows us to respond immediately to Washington’s dysfunction and take the first critical steps to protect our state’s progress.”
House Speaker Javier Martínez stated: “Deep federal budget cuts and continued chaos in Washington, D.C. are making life harder and more expensive for New Mexicans now. But New Mexico’s leaders are ready for this fight, so we’re stepping up to address the most pressing issues facing families: skyrocketing healthcare premiums, seniors losing food benefits, and rural healthcare providers on the brink. This special session is about making sure families across our state have access to the things they cannot live without.”
The legislature is scheduled to convene at noon on October 1 at the State Capitol Building in Santa Fe.
