New Mexico Senate passes cybersecurity, transparency measures in Monday session

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Senate convened Monday, March 17, to discuss and vote on several key pieces of legislation.

Cybersecurity legislation moves forward

Senators unanimously approved Senate Bill 254 by a 37-0 vote, renaming the Cybersecurity Office to the Office of Cybersecurity and elevating the state chief information security officer from a nonvoting member to chair of the Cybersecurity Advisory Committee. The legislation aims to strengthen cybersecurity protections for state agencies, counties, tribal entities, municipalities, higher education institutions, and public school districts.

"As New Mexico carries out our Marshall Plan to expand broadband access across our vast state, the cybersecurity and stability of state information networks are critical," said Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, the bill’s sponsor. "In the last year alone, our state agencies and public school districts have already fallen victim to bad actors either looking for chaos or a payout, and we must send an overwhelming response that this will not stand."

Albuquerque State Fairgrounds redevelopment approved

Senate Bill 481 establishes the State Fairgrounds District, a new tax increment development district in Albuquerque overseen by a seven-member board. The district will retain 75% of gross receipts taxes generated within its boundaries—which include Albuquerque Downs Racetrack and Casino, adjacent parking areas, and horse barns—to fund infrastructure improvements. The bill also allows the district to acquire additional private properties nearby.

"Like so many New Mexicans, I have great memories from the state fair, which has been hosted at the same location since 1938," said Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque. "However, it’s no secret that our state fairgrounds need serious work. Senate Bill 481 ensures Albuquerque has the resources we need to redevelop this area and that a team is in place to help envision the next chapter for these historic grounds."

Lobbying transparency bill narrowly passes

House Bill 143, requiring lobbyists to disclose lobbying activities within 48 hours, passed the Senate by a 22-15 vote and now awaits Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s signature. Lobbyists would be required to report the legislation they’re lobbying, their employer’s stance on the legislation, and their employer’s identity.

"Since my first days as a legislator here in the Roundhouse, I have believed that New Mexicans — and especially those who live far from Santa Fe, like me — have never gotten a full picture of what is happening during the legislative session," said Sen. Jeff Steinborn, D-Las Cruces, the bill’s sponsor. "This is a transparency tool that will help every New Mexican, regardless of whether you live in Santa Fe, Las Cruces, or over in Carlsbad, understand who is trying to influence their duly elected legislator."

Red flag law enhancements approved

House Bill 12, enhancing New Mexico’s Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order—also known as the red flag law—advanced to Gov. Lujan Grisham’s desk. The measure would simplify the process for law enforcement and individuals to temporarily remove firearms from people considered threats to themselves or others.

"When people are in crisis and not in a position to make clear decisions, removing firearms from the situation can help keep them and those around them safe," said Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, a Senate sponsor of the bill. "By empowering law enforcement to intervene before a tragedy occurs more effectively, our red flag law prioritizes public safety and mental health, creating a safer environment for everyone."

Senate confirmations

The Senate also confirmed three appointments to the Western New Mexico University Board of Regents:

• John V. Wertheim, approved 34-0
• Keana Richelle Huerta (student member), approved 35-0
• Joseph Dean Reed, approved 37-0