HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS
Legislation supporting New Mexico’s plan for a just, equitable transition to a clean energy economy is now headed to the House Floor after passing the House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee today with a 5-2 vote.
Sponsored by Rep. Angelica Rubio (D-Las Cruces) and Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-Albuquerque), HB 279: the Workforce and Economic Prosperity Act, proposes steps to ensure that New Mexico’s workforce and local economies are ahead of the curve as the state, national, and global economies shift towards clean energy sources. The bill establishes the Workforce and Economic Prosperity Council within the Workforce Solutions Department, to develop a framework for New Mexico to proactively and equitably support the development of a clean energy workforce.
“All too often, the everyday New Mexicans most deeply affected by policy changes are left out of the conversations,” said Rep. Rubio. “On the contrary, HB 297 is written and developed by the very New Mexicans who are most impacted by pollution, the effects of climate change, and reductions in the demand for fossil fuels.”
Rep. Rubio continued: “This legislation continues to give these groups a meaningful voice in policies and economic development plans by creating a council largely made up of members from these communities.”
“HB 297 is about centering communities in building a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for New Mexico,” said Rep. Stansbury. “The bill lifts up the work of communities across the state and provides a framework and tools for our communities to lead. I am grateful for the Committee’s vote today and am excited to see the bill move to the Floor.”
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.