February 19, 2026
Statement of Lt. Governor Howie Morales
“The 2026 New Mexico Legislature completed its work today – my final regular session presiding in the Senate – and I am extremely proud of the results for residents during this 30-day budget session. A robust state economy and continued strong revenues empowered our lawmakers to make historic investments to address affordability, infrastructure & roads, economic development, classrooms and health care.
“It was a very productive legislative session that I am certain will improve the quality of life for ordinary New Mexicans right now and for the long term. Thanks to the ambitious leadership of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who set a positive tone for this year’s regular meeting of the Legislature, we were successful in accomplishing much, and frequently with welcome bipartisan agreement.
“Top highlights of the 2026 legislative session for me included:
-“Establishing first-in-the-nation universal child care for New Mexico’s youngest children and their families, building on our rigorous early childhood education and care system.
-“$1.5 billion in a bonding measure for roads infrastructure will be critical for keeping New Mexicans moving safely and efficiently for the next decade.
“We took significant action for the health and well-being of all our residents by reforming the medical malpractice rules in our state, and in doing so addressing the critical doctor shortage and high malpractice insurance costs that have made it difficult to recruit and retain doctors here. I am optimistic that this reform will help our rural communities, which are especially underserved.”
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