Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023
Abortion debate switches to Roundhouse
After a good deal of 2022 being consumed by the abortion debate, the state legislature is finally ready to log in on the subject. Since Roe vs. Wade was struck down last year by the Supreme Court, our Governor has stated that codifying abortion rights in state law is among her top issues, even though it is still legal. Eastern side county and municipal governments (including Roosevelt County) have raised the temperature further by enacting ordinances seeking to prohibit abortion clinics from locating inside their boundaries. The new State Attorney General has sought to have the courts block those local governments from doing so. HB-7 now seeks to block those ordinances through legislation. it passed its first committee this past week on a 7-3 vote with local residents on hand to testify. Stay tuned, this is going to get emotional before it’s done.
Bills to reign in medical malpractice suits dropped
Two bills sponsored by Republican lawmakers have dropped in the House that would attempt to reel in medical malpractice lawsuits in New Mexico. They would change various facets of the statutes and cap the potential payouts. Those desperately trying to recruit doctors and other medical professionals, especially in rural markets have said the cost of malpractice insurance and low Medicare reimbursements has become a big issue and threaten our medical system.
Angel Investor rules overhaul sought
A bill seeking to enhance tax benefits to so-called Angel Investors has garnered support from both parties this week as it advanced through committee. The bill seeks to raise the tax deduction money available to investors from $2 million to $5 million. It would also affect the amount of eligibility years available. This would improve startup businesses chances of success when they are unable to borrow money through regular channels.
Reeb bills seek cannabis protection for youths
Local Rep. Andrea Reeb has introduced three bills that will put in fixes to cannabis laws that seek to protect children. One of those bills would mandate education and resources in school. Another would address packaging issues for products that have already fallen into the hands of children thinking they’re getting sweets or snacks. The last one amends the delinquency act to include possession of cannabis.

We’re proud of our local lawyer in the statehouse, even if Alec Baldwin’s attorneys don’t approve.
What’s that smell?
Too often things in Santa Fe start to stink in a big way before the legislature gets done. A bill addressing an official state aroma has nothing to do with that smell or even the smell of burning cannabis, which has dominated the last several sessions. It actually would make the smell of roasting green chile in the fall our “official aroma.” The only thing that might be more pleasing to the agriculture industry would maybe be the aroma of a cow lot in the spring.