CVNM Responds to Passage of Historic Legislative Modernization Measure
A professionalized legislature will even the playing field for those who depend on a salary to serve their communities
Tuesday, February 17th, the Senate passed HJR 5 Legislative Compensation, CA on a vote of 23-19. The measure would provide state legislators with a salary for the first time, equivalent to the median salary for New Mexico residents. New Mexico is the last state in the nation with a fully-volunteer legislature, which serves as a substantial barrier for community members that are not independently wealthy to represent their communities in office.
In recent years, legislators and advocates have called out the impact that New Mexico’s volunteer legislative structure has had on elected officials who juggle multiple jobs, are parents, young adults, or otherwise low income. In some instances, legislators have been forced to step down from office due to financial constraints. HJR 5 will now be on the ballot this November for voter consideration. In response, John Martinez CVNM Political Director released the following statement:
“Our democracy is richest when people from all walks of life can engage in it fully and equitably. Communities most impacted by policy decisions deserve a seat at the table shaping our laws. However, the ability to afford to be away from work and family for one to two months at a time is a huge barrier for many in running for office. Professionalizing our legislature evens the playing field, creating the conditions for an elected body that is truly representative of the state. New Mexicans deserve elected leaders that are able to serve their communities full time year around. An annual salary allows leaders to serve their constituents in between interim committees, and take the time needed to more fully understand the complexities of the issues our communities face. We applaud the legislature for passing HJR 5, and look forward to seeing the outcome of the 2026 ballot initiative.”
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CVNM is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization connecting the people of New Mexico to their political power to protect our air, land, water, wildlife and communities for a healthy Land of Enchantment. CVNM does this by mobilizing voters, winning elections, holding elected officials accountable, and advancing responsible public policies.