Our champion in the nm legislature
Christine Chandler has been our champion in the NM Legislature fighting for the issues that matter the most to us.
First elected in 2018, she serves as chair of the influential House Judiciary Committee carefully reviewing the most critical details of the most important bills that go through the legislature. She is also a member of the House Taxation & Revenue Committee and Chair of the Interim Courts, Corrections & Justice Committee.
Legislative Achievements
HB5: Workforce Development & Apprenticeship Fund
The "Workforce Development & Apprenticeship Fund" bill establishes a dedicated trust fund to support apprenticeship programs across New Mexico, ensuring sustained investment in the state's workforce. Sponsored by Christine Chandler, this bill highlights her commitment to fostering economic growth and providing valuable training opportunities for residents.
Updated: 2/28/2024
HB41: Clean Transportation Fuel Standards
The "Clean Transportation Fuel Standards" bill empowers the Environmental Improvement Board to establish and enforce a statewide clean transportation fuel standard, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Supported by Christine Chandler, this legislation underscores her dedication to environmental sustainability and public health, promising economic growth through innovative investments in clean energy infrastructure.
Updated: 3/5/2024
HB141: Judicial Salary Increase
The "Supreme Court Justice Salary Increase" bill increases the salaries of judges across the state of New Mexico, in order to recruit and retain the most qualified, experienced legal professionals as judges on New Mexico courts.. This legislation, supported by Christine Chandler, underscores her commitment to fair compensation for the judiciary, ensuring competitive salaries for justices and judges, which may enhance the state's ability to attract and retain highly qualified judicial professionals.
Updated: 2/10/2024
HB151: Post-Secondary Affirmative Consent Policies
The "Post-Secondary Affirmative Consent Policies" bill requires post-secondary institutions receiving state funds to adopt trauma-informed policies for investigating sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, stalking, and harassment involving students, faculty, employees, contractors, or regents. Institutions must use affirmative consent as the standard for sexual activity consent, ensuring thorough support services and comprehensive prevention programs. This bill aligns with existing federal requirements but emphasizes the need for additional training and resources, potentially incurring minimal yet variable costs across institutions.
Updated: 3/1/2024
HB27: Breast Exam Coverage
The "Breast Exam Coverage" bill ensures that all insured individuals have access to essential breast cancer screening and diagnostic exams without any out-of-pocket costs, promoting early detection and improved health outcomes for women. This legislation supports preventive healthcare measures and aligns with federal standards to enhance patient care and reduce breast cancer mortality rates.
Updated: 2/18/2023
HB31: No Publication Required for Name Changes
The "No Publication Required for Name Changes" bill allows individuals to petition for a name change without the costly and potentially dangerous requirement of public notice, providing greater safety and accessibility for those seeking to change their names, such as domestic violence survivors or those aligning with their gender identity. This legislation removes financial and safety barriers, making the name change process more inclusive and secure for all applicants.
Updated: 3/28/2023
HB160: Broadband Infrastructure
The "Broadband Infrastructure" bill facilitates the expansion of broadband internet services to unserved and underserved areas by allowing the State Transportation Commission to prescribe conditions for infrastructure installation along public highways and potentially waive fees, promoting digital connectivity and bridging the digital divide in New Mexico.
Updated: 4/5/2023
HB169: Disclosure of Legislative Ethics Complaints
The "Disclosure of Legislative Ethics Complaints" bill allows complainants to disclose information related to the filing or investigation of legislative ethics complaints at any time, promoting transparency and aligning the confidentiality rules with those of the State Ethics Commission.
Updated: 3/30/2023
HB287: Driver Safety Awareness License Plates
The "Driver Safety Awareness License Plates" bill introduces a special license plate to promote driver safety awareness, particularly to remind drivers to look twice for motorcycles, with proceeds supporting motorcycle operator training and driver awareness initiatives.
Updated: 3/30/2023
HJM7: Study School Ventilation & Air Conditioning
House Joint Memorial 7 requests the study and improvement of school HVAC systems to enhance indoor air quality, reduce airborne virus transmission, and promote a healthier learning environment for students and staff. The initiative aligns with federal recommendations and aims to ensure sustainable funding for HVAC assessments and upgrades.
Updated: 3/17/2023
HM30: Jim Walther Day
House Memorial 30 declares February 7, 2023, as "Jim Walther Day" in recognition of Jim Walther's transformative contributions to nuclear education and his leadership at the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History. Under his direction, the museum expanded its reach, initiated Nuclear Science Week, and significantly enhanced STEM programming for the community.
Updated: 2/17/2023
SB47: Drivers License Suspension Penalties
Summary: Senate Bill 47 aims to improve fairness in the legal system by removing penalties for driver’s license suspensions due to failure to appear in court or nonpayment of fines. This change is expected to alleviate financial burdens on drivers and encourage compliance with court orders without the added stress of license suspension.
Updated: 3/15/2023
SB168: Death Pronouncements By Nurses
Senate Bill 168 expands the ability for registered nurses within hospice agencies to pronounce deaths due to natural causes, facilitating quicker and more dignified death pronouncements in nursing homes. This change helps reduce delays and reliance on emergency services, enhancing the overall care experience for residents and their families.
Updated: 4/4/2023
HM21: NM Rural Electric CO-OP Day
House Memorial 21 designates February 3, 2023, as "New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Day" to recognize the vital role these cooperatives play in providing power, supporting local economies, and enhancing education in rural areas. This day celebrates their significant contributions, including infrastructure investments, scholarships, and community engagement, while highlighting their commitment to renewable energy and technological advancement.
Updated: 2/8/2023
HB2: Tax Rebates
House Bill 2 (HB2) provides two temporary personal income tax rebates and additional relief payments to support taxpayers. The bill allocates funds for $250 to $500 rebates based on filing status, a $1,000 relief payment for eligible households with dependents, and administrative costs, with an emergency clause for immediate effect.
Updated: 4/8/2022
HB52: Harm Reduction Amendments
House Bill 52 expands New Mexico's Harm Reduction Program by allowing a broader range of harm reduction supplies and educational resources, including drug testing devices, to address the growing opioid crisis and enhance public health outcomes. This bill aims to reduce overdose deaths and improve overall health by supporting comprehensive harm reduction efforts.
Updated: 2/28/2022
HB67: Tech Readiness Gross Receipts Tax Credit
House Bill 67 extends the Technology Readiness Gross Receipts Tax Credit through 2032 and standardizes its funding, aiming to support New Mexico's national laboratories by providing a tax credit of up to $1 million per lab per year. This bill is designed to bolster technological advancements and economic growth while simplifying the credit's administration.
Updated: 3/8/2022
HB95: Health - Easy Enrollment Act
House Bill 95, the Health - Easy Enrollment Act, streamlines the process for New Mexico taxpayers to access health insurance by allowing them to consent to sharing their tax information with state health programs. This bill aims to significantly increase health coverage enrollment, making it easier for uninsured individuals to find and enroll in appropriate health insurance plans.
Updated: 3/2/2022
HB153: General Obligation Bond Projects
The "General Obligation Bond Projects" bill authorizes approximately $258.8 million in bonds for senior citizen facilities, library resource acquisitions, and capital improvements for higher education and tribal schools. The bonds, requiring voter approval, will be issued in 2023 and repaid through property taxes, with funds available to recipients in late spring 2023.
Updated: 3/9/2022
HB163: Tax Changes
The "Tax Changes" bill positively impacts both the sustainable building sector and healthcare professionals by extending the eligibility for sustainable building tax credits and introducing a $1,000 refundable tax credit for full-time hospital nurses in New Mexico for 2022. This amendment fosters environmental sustainability and supports the healthcare workforce, demonstrating a commitment to both economic and social benefits.
Updated: 3/8/2022
HJR1: Public Assistance For Household Services
The "Public Assistance for Household Services" bill proposes a constitutional amendment to allow state funds for essential infrastructure like internet, energy, water, and wastewater services. By broadening the scope of public investment, it aims to enhance access to critical services, which could significantly benefit residents, especially during emergencies like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Updated: 2/16/2022
HM23: El Rancho De Las Golondrinas Day
The "El Rancho de Las Golondrinas Day" bill celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of New Mexico's premier living history museum by proclaiming January 25, 2022, as "El Rancho de Las Golondrinas Day." This recognition honors the museum's dedication to preserving New Mexico's cultural heritage, its educational impact, and its community contributions, including fresh produce donations and support for local schools.
Updated: 2/8/2022
HM59: Rep. Daymon Ely, In Recognition
The "Rep. Daymon Ely, in Recognition" bill honors Representative Daymon Ely for his exemplary service to New Mexico, highlighting his contributions as a legislator, attorney, and former Sandoval County commissioner. The resolution acknowledges his dedication to justice, legislative skill, and commitment to improving the lives of New Mexicans.
Updated: 2/6/2022
SB4: Prevailing Wage And Fringe Benefit Rates
The "Prevailing Wage and Fringe Benefit Rates" bill aims to streamline the process for setting and appealing prevailing wage rates by establishing firm deadlines for rate determinations and allowing rates to take effect during appeals, with the option for a stay granted by a court. This approach is designed to ensure timely implementation of wage rates while providing clear procedures for addressing disputes, thereby enhancing efficiency and predictability in wage administration.
Updated: 2/28/2022
SB41: College Research Park & Econ Dev Act Changes
The "University Research Park and Economic Development Act Changes" bill aims to enhance labor relations by subjecting research park corporations managing health care facilities to the Public Employee Bargaining Act. This change, potentially impacting entities like the UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center, could streamline unionization processes and provide a more favorable environment for collective bargaining under state regulations.
Updated: 3/8/2022
HM57: Rep. Karen C. Bash, In Recognition
This bill honors Representative Karen C. Bash for her dedicated service to New Mexico, recognizing her as a committed advocate for child well-being, early childhood education, food security, and expanded access to healthcare. Her contributions as vice chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee and her extensive background in education and community service are celebrated, highlighting her positive impact on both the legislature and the broader community.
Updated: 2/16/2022
HM58: Rep. Deborah A. Armstrong, In Recognition
This bill honors Representative Deborah A. Armstrong for her exemplary service to New Mexico, recognizing her as a dedicated advocate for health care policy and patient rights. Her significant contributions include her work on key legislation such as the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, the Elizabeth Whitefield End-of-Life Options Act, and her leadership in repealing outdated laws. With a distinguished background in physical therapy and health care administration, Representative Armstrong has made a lasting impact through her legislative work and commitment to improving health care access and quality.
Updated: 2/16/2022
HM62: Rep. Brittney Barreras, In Recognition
This bill honors Representative Brittney Barreras for her exemplary service to New Mexico. Elected in 2020 to represent District 12, she has made significant contributions as vice chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and a member of the Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee. Known for her dedication to human rights and LGBTQIA+ advocacy, Representative Barreras has actively supported her community through initiatives like backpack drives and essential needs assistance. Celebrated for her sense of humor and bipartisan approach, she is recognized for her outstanding commitment to both her constituents and the legislative process.
Updated: 2/17/2022
HB10: Broadband Development Division
The "Broadband Development Division" bill creates a council to support and coordinate broadband investments across New Mexico, focusing on connecting underserved areas and fostering digital inclusion. This initiative aims to improve broadband access statewide, stimulating economic development and enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses.
Updated: 3/19/2021
HB11: GRT & Permanent Fund For LEDA Projects
The "GRT & Permanent Fund For LEDA Projects" bill expands LEDA to provide recovery grants to businesses affected by COVID-19, enhances the definition of broadband network facilities, and sets criteria for grant eligibility, including demonstrating a net increase in full-time employees and prioritizing those with significant revenue declines.
Updated: 2/19/2021
HB20: “Healthy Workplaces Act”
The "Healthy Workplaces Act" creates a right to paid sick leave for New Mexico workers, requiring employers to provide at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, with a yearly minimum of 64 hours. It also prohibits employers from reclassifying employees to avoid compliance, covers state and local governments, and outlines specific conditions for the use and accrual of sick leave.
Updated: 3/20/2021
HB76: EIB Permit Denial For Poor Compliance
The "EIB Permit Denial for Poor Compliance" bill (HB 76) allows the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) or local air permitting agencies to deny or revoke air quality permits for facilities with poor compliance histories, including cases of misrepresentation, failure to disclose information, environmental felony convictions, or operating un-permitted facilities. The bill aims to protect public health and level the playing field for compliant businesses by ensuring non-compliant operators are held accountable.
Updated: 3/16/2021
HB89: Healthy Soil Tax Refund Contribution Option
The "Healthy Soil Tax Refund Contribution Option" bill (HB 89) allows New Mexico taxpayers to donate part or all of their personal income tax refunds to the Healthy Soils Program. This program, administered by the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA), supports farming, ranching, and land management practices that improve soil health.
Updated: 4/6/2021
HB291: Tax Changes
The "Tax Changes" bill introduces new income tax brackets, expands the Low-Income Comprehensive Tax Rebate and Working Families Tax Credit, narrows the capital gains tax deduction, and allows for higher property tax increases on non-owner-occupied residences.
Updated: 4/6/2021
SB1: LEDA Changes
The "LEDA Changes" bill expands the Local Economic Development Act by allowing a permanent mechanism for sharing gross receipts tax revenue from large construction projects (over $350 million) with the LEDA fund, enhancing New Mexico’s ability to attract significant investments. It also introduces stricter reporting requirements and clawback provisions if project targets are not met.
Updated: 4/7/2021
SB8: Local Government Air Quality Regulations
The "Local Gov't Air Quality Regulations" bill allows state and local governments to implement environmental regulations stricter than federal standards, including for air quality and hazardous waste. It provides the Environmental Improvement Board (EIB) with more authority to address specific state and local air pollution issues and manage hazardous waste, potentially improving public health and environmental protection.
Updated: 4/8/2021
SB32: Wildlife Conservation & Public Safety Act
The "Wildlife Conservation & Public Safety Act" bill prohibits the use of traps, snares, or poisons on public lands, with specific exceptions for various wildlife management and ceremonial purposes. The Department of Game and Fish anticipates reduced sales of furbearer licenses and potential increased demand for wildlife mitigation services.
Updated: 4/5/2021
HB6: Temporary Tax Waivers and Distributions
The "Temporary Tax Waivers and Distributions" bill waives penalties and interest on certain delayed tax payments due to COVID-19, including personal and corporate income taxes, withholding taxes, and gross receipts taxes. It also provides increased temporary distributions to local governments and exempts CARES Act funds from gross receipts tax.
Updated: 6/29/2020
HB17: Disclosure Requirements for Private Colleges
The "Disclosure Requirements for Private Colleges" bill mandates private post-secondary institutions to provide prospective students with detailed information on the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and other expenses. Institutions must also disclose program length, completion rates, loan debt, and potential earnings.
Updated: 3/6/2020
HB44: New Mexico Work and Save Act
The "New Mexico Work and Save Act" establishes a voluntary retirement savings program for private sector and nonprofit employees, including self-employed individuals. It creates a web-based marketplace managed by a board to connect users with retirement plans, aiming to be financially self-sustaining within five years through administrative fees.
Updated: 2/26/2020
SB64: Public Records Pertaining to Certain Claims
The "Public Records Pertaining to Certain Claims" bill enhances transparency by allowing public inspection of settlement agreements and records related to damage claims against government entities and employees. It removes delays and penalties associated with record access and eliminates a 180-day inspection delay.
Updated: 3/4/2020
SB98: Public Project Prevailing Wage Complaints
The "Public Project Prevailing Wage Complaints" bill amends the Public Works Minimum Wage Act to enhance transparency and enforcement by requiring the Labor Relations Division (LRD) to investigate wage complaints and ensure compliance with prevailing wage rates. It mandates that certified payroll records be available for public inspection and imposes stricter penalties for wage violations.
Updated: 3/5/2020
HB225: Kiki Saavedra Senior Dignity Fund
The "Kiki Saavedra Senior Dignity Fund" bill establishes a fund aimed at enhancing services for seniors and adults with disabilities. It provides for funding innovative and emergency services through grants, including mobile day care pilots, in-home caregiver services, and support for grandparents raising grandchildren.
Updated: 2/26/2020
HM1: Centennial of 19th Amendment
The "Centennial of the 19th Amendment" bill commemorates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States. The bill recognizes the efforts of key figures and communities in advancing women's suffrage, particularly highlighting New Mexico's role in ratifying the amendment. It celebrates the contributions of women to civic and political life and encourages the acknowledgment and remembrance of the suffrage movement's impact.
Updated: 2/11/2020
HM64: Foster Parent & Advocate Day
The "Foster Parent & Advocate Day" bill designates February 13, 2020, as "Foster Parent and Advocate Day" in the New Mexico House of Representatives. The resolution honors foster parents for their dedication and selflessness in providing care and stability to displaced children. It acknowledges their role in fostering positive connections and supporting children's development while respecting their cultural and community ties.
Updated: 2/17/2020
HM66: Rep. Paul C. Bandy, In Recognition
The "Rep. Paul C. Bandy, In Recognition" bill honors Representative Paul C. Bandy for his fourteen years of service as a state legislator for District 3, San Juan County. It recognizes his contributions on various committees, including agriculture, water resources, and appropriations, and highlights his work on the 2019 forest and watershed restoration bill.
Updated: 2/15/2020
HM68: Rep. Tomas E. Salazar, In Recognition
The "Rep. Tomás E. Salazar, In Recognition" bill honors Representative Tomás E. Salazar for his eight years of service as a state representative for District 70. It recognizes his contributions to education, water supply, and economic development, and highlights his extensive work on various committees, including Appropriations and Finance, Higher Education, and Investments and Pensions Oversight.
Updated: 2/19/2020
HB17: Water Leases & Use of Leased Water
The "Water Leases & Use of Leased Water" bill clarifies the process for leasing water rights, especially those served by acequias or community ditches. It ensures that leases are effective only after legal approval, prohibits leases from cumulating water year-to-year or expanding usage in a way that harms other users, and sets specific lease terms.
Updated: 4/2/2019
HB227: Use of Teacher Attendance For Evaluations
The "Use of Teacher Attendance For Evaluations" bill prohibits the inclusion of teacher attendance, including up to ten days of sick leave, in annual performance evaluations as long as the leave is used according to local policies. It allows the evaluation to reflect attendance if the leave usage is inconsistent with local policies or agreements.
Updated: 2/4/2019
HB312: Seizure & Disposition of Forfeited Property
The "Seizure & Disposition of Forfeited Property" bill updates procedures related to the seizure, storage, and disposition of forfeited or abandoned property. It revises definitions and procedures for forfeiture proceedings, including the sale of forfeited property, destruction of certain seized items, and reporting requirements. The bill also addresses the distribution of proceeds from sales and makes an appropriation to support these changes.
Updated: 4/2/2019
HB379: Acquia Property Liens From Court Judgements
The "Acequia Property Liens From Court Judgments" bill allows acequias and community ditches to obtain a lien on property through magistrate or district court judgments for unpaid assessments. It provides procedures for collecting these assessments, including the filing of liens and releases of liens, and sets penalties for non-payment.
Updated: 3/16/2019
HB479: De-Earmark Local Option Gross Receipts
The "De-Earmark Local Option Gross Receipts" bill allows municipal and county gross receipts taxes to be used for any municipal or county purpose, respectively, rather than being restricted to specific uses. It ensures that changes or repeals of these taxes do not impair outstanding revenue bonds and mandates that previously dedicated revenues continue to be used for their original purposes.
Updated: 4/4/2019
HB526: Lab Small Business Tax Credit Changes
The "Lab Small Business Tax Credit Changes" bill updates the definition of "contractor" in the Laboratory Partnership with Small Business Tax Credit Act to include more entities. It modifies notice requirements for small businesses receiving assistance from a national laboratory or its contractors, and increases the credit amount available for each participating small business.
Updated: 3/15/2019
SB11: Gross Receipts for Nonprofit Organizations
The "Gross Receipts for Nonprofit Organizations" bill amends the gross receipts tax exemption for nonprofits by excluding receipts from unrelated trade or business activities, and from prime contractors operating national laboratories or state-owned research facilities in New Mexico.
Updated: 2/28/2019
SB191: Lobbyist Reporting Requirements
The "Lobbyist Reporting Requirements" bill revises the reporting obligations for lobbyists by detailing new categories and thresholds for expenditure reporting, mandating electronic submission and authentication of reports, and setting deadlines for filing. It also requires documentation of all expenditures and political contributions, including a statement of no activity if no transactions occur during a period.
Updated: 2/4/2019
HB6: Tax Changes
The "Tax Changes" bill makes extensive revisions to New Mexico's tax laws, including: updating personal income tax brackets, limiting capital gains deductions, increasing various tax credits, and adjusting the treatment of certain taxes. It also introduces combined reporting for unitary groups, changes to corporate tax filing requirements, and adjusts sourcing rules for state taxes. Additionally, it increases taxes on cigarettes and tobacco products, and modifies the distribution of motor vehicle excise tax revenues.
Updated: 4/4/2019
HB55: Agreement to Elect President by Popular Vote
The "Agreement to Elect President by Popular Vote" bill enacts a compact to elect the U.S. President by national popular vote. It amends the Election Code to align with the agreement, which includes conducting a nationwide popular election and ensuring that electoral votes are allocated to the presidential slate with the most national popular votes. The bill requires member states to conform to new procedures for determining and certifying presidential electors based on popular vote totals.
Updated: 4/3/2019
HB66: Mammogram Info Disclosure
The "Mammogram Info Disclosure" bill mandates that health facilities performing mammograms provide patients with information about their breast density classification. If a patient's breast tissue is identified as dense, the report must include a notice about the potential implications and suggest a discussion with their healthcare provider about further screening options.
Updated: 2/4/2019
HB462: Create Outdoor Recreation Division
The "Create Outdoor Recreation Division" bill establishes the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division within the Economic Development Department. It creates the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Committee to guide the division, sets up the Special Projects and Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Fund, and introduces the Outdoor Equity Grant Program and Fund. The division will focus on boosting outdoor recreation-based economic development, attracting businesses, and promoting environmental stewardship and public health.
Updated: 4/2/2019
Christine Will Continue Fighting for:
HB6: Paid Family & Medical Leave Act
The "Paid Family & Medical Leave Act" establishes a program to provide eligible employees with paid leave to bond with a new child, care for a family member, or address personal health issues. It creates the Paid Family and Medical Leave Fund and outlines the administration of the program by the Workforce Solutions Department. The bill specifies eligible leave types and durations, excludes certain employees, and preempts similar programs.
This bill narrowly failed to pass, however Rep. Chandler will continue to fight for Paid Family Medical Leave in the 2025 legislative session.
Updated: 1/25/2024
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