HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS

Bill provides COVID relief grants to small businesses and attracts large companies to New Mexico 

A $200 million relief and support package for New Mexico businesses cleared its first hurdle in the House of Representatives today. 

Sponsored by Rep. Christine Chandler (D – Los Alamos) and Speaker of the House Rep. Brian Egolf (D – Sante Fe), House Bill 11 provides immediate economic assistance to thousands of struggling small businesses in the state, and creates a sustainable way to incentivize large companies to come to New Mexico. 

“Through House Bill 11, New Mexico businesses who need help the most can receive up to $100,000 in assistance to use for rent, equipment, and supporting job creation which the state desperately needs,” said Rep. Chandler.  

“House Bill 11 provides a two-fold solution to help our state today and tomorrow,” said Speaker Egolf. “Robust assistance will help New Mexico’s restaurants, shops, and other small businesses navigate the pandemic, while the bill simultaneously generates long-term economic gains and jobs for the state, which will boost our economy for years to come.”  

HB 11 passed the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee with a 6-4 party line vote, and will be heard next in the House Taxation and Revenue Committee.  

Members of the public can track legislation on the New Mexico Legislature website, access committee meetings and House floor sessions via the Webcasts tab, or participate by Zoom to provide public comment on committee hearings. During the 2021 Legislative Session, the House of Representatives is focused on passing critical legislation while protecting the health and safety of the public, the staff, and the legislators.