Legislature Passes Incentives To Reduce Climate Pollution In Construction and Manufacturing
Wednesday, February 18th 2026, the New Mexico Senate passed HB 153 Industrial Carbon Reduction Act on a vote of 30-6. The legislation creates a voluntary mechanism for producers of construction materials, like cement and steel, to create more climate-friendly products. Companies that opt in would have to label the carbon emissions of their products, and would be eligible for a tax rebate if their products are below the average emissions of products in the region. Construction materials are responsible for nearly one-third of all climate change emissions. Companies are also increasingly looking for environmentally-friendly alternatives for building construction. In response, CVNM Legislative Director Zoe Barker issued the following statement:
“As New Mexico seeks new avenues for economic diversification, investing in climate-friendly businesses is common sense. Research shows that the construction and manufacturing industries make up a significant portion of the nation’s climate pollution. Companies are also recognizing this, and seeking climate-friendly products to build their facilities and source their investments. New Mexico can and should be a hub for low-carbon construction materials, and HB 153 motivates and rewards companies for embracing innovation and investing in solutions that protect our communities and our climate. We applaud the legislature for passing HB 153, and thank the sponsors, especially Representative Dixon and Senator Berghmans, for the tireless work on this legislation over the past year.”
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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.