Enchantment State News

The New Mexico State Legislature's 2025 legislative session concluded on March 22, a 60-day session focused heavily on legislation affecting small businesses. During this period, 1,182 bills and 148 memorials, resolutions, and joint resolutions were introduced. Out of these, 195 bills have been approved by both chambers and forwarded to the Governor, while 52 memorials and resolutions have been adopted by the Legislature.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) closely monitored 40 pieces of legislation with potential impacts on small businesses throughout the state. Executive Director of NFIB New Mexico, "Jason Espinoza," emphasized the organization's active role in lobbying against proposals that could increase operational difficulties for small businesses.

One significant bill that NFIB opposed was House Bill 11, the Paid Family & Medical Leave Act. This proposal was defeated in the Senate Finance Committee with an 8-3 bipartisan vote. It intended to implement a state-run leave program funded by payroll taxes on employers and employees, including small businesses. The proposed bill was argued to create "significant administrative burdens and legal risks" for employers.

Another contested proposal was House Bill 246, which aimed to increase the minimum wage to $17 per hour by 2026. This bill passed the House Labor Committee but did not advance further. NFIB opposed it, citing the potential negative impact on small businesses, particularly those struggling with labor shortages.

House Joint Resolution 3, known as the Green Amendment, was also a point of contention. NFIB joined other organizations in opposing this amendment, which intended to grant far-reaching environmental rights. Although it passed one committee, it wasn't advanced for further hearings.

Finally, House Bill 84, the Employee Free Speech Act, was another measure that faced opposition from NFIB and failed to gain traction. The bill sought to restrict employer communications on political subjects within the workplace.

In addition to opposing these proposals, NFIB supported several initiatives aimed at assisting small businesses. Among them was House Bill 279, sponsored by Representatives Nicole Chavez, Gail Armstrong, and Elaine Sena Cortez, which proposed reviews of health insurance mandates.

Other legislative efforts included House Bill 262, concerning the transparency of attorney fees in legal advertising, and House Bill 312, the Litigation Financing Transparency Act. Despite bipartisan support, these bills did not advance far in the legislative process.

Lastly, NFIB backed House Bill 425, which targeted reforming the State Rules Act to enhance transparency in how agencies handle public comments during the rulemaking process.

NFIB's efforts during the session reflect a commitment to creating a more transparent business environment in New Mexico, according to Executive Director Espinoza. He acknowledged the active participation of NFIB members in advocating for small business interests.

Jason Espinoza concluded, “Thank you to every NFIB member who emailed a legislator, testified in committee, or met with an elected official. Your engagement fuels our advocacy and ensures that small businesses remain a force to be reckoned with at the Roundhouse.”