{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"NM\" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-president-jimmy-carter", "Heinrich Statement on President Jimmy Carter", "2024-12-29", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement in recognition of the life of former U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize winner Jimmy Carter.\n\n\u201cJimmy Carter devoted his life to serving others, seeking peace, and improving the world around him.\n\n\u201cFrom creating the Department of Energy to protecting our rivers and wildlands in New Mexico, Alaska, and elsewhere, President Carter\u2019s legacy was forward-looking, thoughtful, and visionary. Above everything, he stood tall for working people, never relenting in the fight for a better economic future for all.\n\n\u201cAt a time of great polarization and partisan divide in our nation, I hope each of us can draw from President Carter\u2019s constant example of compassion, humility, and decency.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquezs-bill-protect-rural-jobs-signed-law", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez\u2019s Bill to Protect Rural Jobs Signed into Law", "2024-12-26", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02)\u2019s Rural Installation Job Protection Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden after passing the Senate and House with bipartisan support. The bill protects jobs on rural military installations and ensures that the Department of Defense (DoD) will be transparent with Congress before making decisions that could hurt local economies, safeguarding the future of workers and families who rely on these installations.\n\n\u201cFolks who are hired to supplement training programs at military installations such as Holloman Force Base contribute to our national security. That\u2019s why my bill ensures that their jobs\u2014and the local economies that depend on them\u2014will be protected,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cThe Department of Defense must be transparent with Congress when making decisions that impact rural installations. We must ensure that folks who choose to live in rural communities can continue to contribute to a strong defense infrastructure, and it is needed now more than ever. My bill, included in the NDAA, will ensure transparency and accountability and even the playing field for communities like Alamogordo and Las Cruces.\u201d\n\nRural communities like Alamogordo rely on the thousands of good paying contractor jobs at Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range. The Rural Installation Job Protection Act protects jobs by requiring the DoD to notify Congress before canceling civilian contracts that impact 50 or more jobs at rural military installations. This law will ensure that rural communities that rely on military installations are not left behind.\n\nVasquez\u2019s bill was passed in the final bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which was signed into law on December 23.\n\nAs the only Member of the New Mexico delegation to serve on an Armed Services Committee, Vasquez has worked to support New Mexico\u2019s service members, families and installations to ensure New Mexico remains at the forefront of our national defense.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-legislation-to-fully-restore-social-security-benefits-for-law-enforcement-officers-firefighters-and-public-servants-heads-to-presidents-desk-to-be-signed-into-law", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n Legislation to Fully Restore Social Security Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters & Public Servants Heads to President\u2019s Desk to be Signed into Law", "2024-12-21", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) secured Senate passage of the Social Security Fairness Act, legislation they cosponsored to restore full Social Security benefits for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other state and local public servants by repealing two provisions of current law that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees receive.\n\nThe Social Security Fairness Act passed the House in November and, following today\u2019s Senate passage, now heads to President Joe Biden to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cOur police officers, firefighters, bus drivers, and teachers deserve to receive the Social Security benefits they\u2019ve earned after a lifetime of hard work,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cNo American should have to worry about affording basic necessities like food or safe housing after paying into Social Security their entire lives. I\u2019m proud to advance this legislation to ensure all Americans get the benefits they are entitled to and can retire with the dignity and peace of mind they were promised.\u201d\n\n\"I was proud to help pass the Social Security Fairness Act for the good of thousands of New Mexicans. This important bipartisan legislation will help ensure that New Mexicans are getting the benefits they have earned and deserve,\" said Luj\u00e1n. \"I\u2019m honored to stand with the millions of dedicated public servants \u2014 police officers, teachers, firefighters, and other local and state employees \u2014 who tirelessly serve our communities, trusting that they will receive the benefits they\u2019ve been promised. I have always fought to protect New Mexicans' Social Security, and I will always continue to do so.\u201d\n\nOver 15 ,000 New Mexicans who have dedicated their lives to public service are prevented from receiving the full Social Security benefits they have earned due to two laws from the 1970s and 1980s.\n\nThe Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), enacted in 1983, reduces the earned Social Security benefits of a worker receiving their public pension from a job not covered by Social Security. For example, some educators who do not earn Social Security in public schools but who work part-time or during the summer in jobs covered by Social Security have reduced benefits, even though they pay into the system for enough quarters to receive benefits. Likewise, the Government Pension Offset (GPO), enacted in 1977, reduces spousal benefits of people who work as federal, state, or local government employees \u2014 including police officers, firefighters, and educators \u2014 if the job is not covered by Social Security. The GPO reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension \u2014 often offsetting benefits entirely.\n\nThe Social Security Fairness Act would repeal both of these laws, ensuring law enforcement, firefighters, teachers, park rangers, and other public sector workers and their families receive the full Social Security benefits they\u2019ve earned.\n\nThe legislation is led by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Susan Collins (R-Maine). Alongside Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Bob Casey, D-Pa.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D- Conn.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jon Ossof (D-Ga.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Deb Fisher (R-Neb.), Chuck Schumer, (D-N.Y.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and John Boozman (R-Ark.).\n\nIn the House, the legislation is led by U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-Va.) and Garret Graves (R-La.).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-government-spending-bill-prevent-shutdown-ensure", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes for Government Spending Bill to Prevent Shutdown, Ensure Critical Funding for Disaster Assistance", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in favor of a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government and prevent a government shutdown, supporting New Mexico\u2019s farmers, families and service members. Vasquez also emphasized that Congress should prioritize a stable budget process to provide long-term certainty for the American public and federal agencies.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to avoid a government shutdown and stop the Republican chaos in favor of hard-working New Mexicans who would have been impacted by yet another manufactured crisis,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cBy voting in favor of the bill, I\u2019m supporting farmers, communities devastated by natural disasters, service men and women and their families and many more. I\u2019ll continue to be a champion for New Mexicans and support New Mexican values.\u201d\n\nThe continuing resolution\u2013which passed with bipartisan support\u2013includes vital funding for wildfire recovery, disaster relief, economic development and key extensions for health care and social services.\n\nThe continuing resolution extended the Farm Bill until September 30, 2025, ensuring critical farm programs do not lapse at the end of this year. In addition, $166 million was included for economic aid and disaster assistance for New Mexican farmers to help with crop losses due to drought and wildfires. However, Republicans did not include funding for reimbursements for people whose SNAP benefits were stolen or $14.5 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act for climate-smart agriculture initiatives that farmers rely on. On the House Agriculture Committee, Vasquez will continue to fight to pass a full five-year Farm Bill for New Mexico\u2019s producers.\n\nThe bill also includes critical disaster assistance for New Mexico, such as $1.5 billion for the Hermit\u2019s Peak and Calf Canyon Fire Fund to support wildfire recovery efforts in New Mexico and other impacted regions.\n\nVasquez applauded the bill\u2019s support for rural patients and hospitals. The bill allows Medicaid patients to continue using telehealth options, which is critical for patients in rural communities who often face barriers to accessing care nearby. The bill also prevents cuts and keeps critical payments going to rural hospitals to ensure patients in rural areas can access the care they need.\n\nVasquez emphasized that while these provisions are essential, the CR is a temporary solution\u2013not a permanent practice. The government\u2019s reliance on CRs undermines effective budgeting and long-term planning, creating unnecessary uncertainty for federal agencies and Americans.\n\nVasquez remains committed to ensuring the government has the resources to function effectively while advocating for stability and certainty in the budget process.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-boozman-secure-final-passage-of-bipartisan-every-kid-outdoors-extension-act", "Heinrich, Boozman Secure Final Passage of Bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Bill heading to President Biden\u2019s desk extends the wildly successful Every Kid Outdoors Program that Heinrich helped establish in 2019 to provide all American fourth graders and their families free national park access\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) secured the Senate\u2019s passage of their bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act as part of the larger Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that already passed the House and will now go to President Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cAs a father and a former outdoor educator, I know how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cSince we passed my original Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago, thousands of children and their families have been inspired to visit our public lands in New Mexico and all across the country. By keeping this program going, our public lands can continue serving as outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur youth deserve the opportunity to learn about and explore our national parks and develop an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our nation. I am proud to see my colleagues recognize the benefits of facilitating outdoor adventure and education for children and families. I look forward to the extension of this significant program,\u201d said Boozman.\n\nStarting in 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has offered fourth graders and their families free entrance to all federally managed public lands. Heinrich led the original bipartisan effort in Congress, alongside then-U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) to codify the Every Kid Outdoors program into law. Heinrich and Alexander\u2019s Every Kid Outdoors Act passed in 2019 as part of the larger John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act.\n\nThe authorization under Heinrich\u2019s original legislation is currently scheduled to expire in 2026. Once President Biden signs it into law, Heinrich and Boozman\u2019s Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act will now extend free access to national parks and other public lands to all American fourth grade students and their families, through 2031.\n\nThe Every Kid Outdoors program has been wildly successful at encouraging tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America\u2019s public lands, waters, and historic sites, including national parks \u2013 more than 2,000 sites in all. In 2023, Every Kid Outdoors vouchers helped create free admission for 11,805 visits to New Mexico public lands, including 879 visits to Carlsbad Caverns National Park, 295 visits to Bandelier National Monument, and 396 visits to White Sands National Park.\n\nThe Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act garnered widespread support, including endorsements from The Wilderness Society, the Sierra Club, and the Outdoor Alliance for Kids.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-capito-celebrate-final-passage-of-bipartisan-simplifying-outdoor-access-for-recreation-act", "Heinrich, Capito Celebrate Final Passage of Bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), celebrated the Senate\u2019s passage of their bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act, legislation to improve the permitting process for outfitters, educational organizations, and community groups to access public land. The legislation was included in the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that already passed in the House and will now go to President Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cOur public lands are where we go to camp under the stars, chase elk, and fish for trout in mountain streams,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cAs a former guide myself, I know from experience how paperwork and bureaucracy can get in the way of getting outside. I\u2019m proud that we have passed my bipartisan legislation to cut red tape to help small businesses and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy our public lands and continue growing economic development through outdoor recreation. We just made it easier for families, schools, and community groups to get outside and enjoy our public lands.\u201d\n\n\u201cMaking it easier to explore and enjoy the incredible beauty of our public lands is a key priority, especially at home in West Virginia,\u201d said Capito. \u201cI\u2019m thrilled our SOAR Act has passed as part of the EXPLORE Act and now heads to the president\u2019s desk to be signed into law. Once officially law, it will reduce bureaucratic red tape and make commonsense changes to current permitting requirements that can discourage outfitters from utilizing our public lands and in turn, constrain economic development. These changes to federal public lands regulations will help support the outdoor recreation industry and benefit the local communities and economies that they serve.\u201d\n\nThe Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act streamlines and improves the recreational permitting process for federal agencies:\n\nThe Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act was supported by a wide range of organizations, including the Wilderness Society, American Mountain Guides Association, The Mountaineers, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, and the Outdoor Industry Association.\n\nThe bill was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Steven Daines (R-Mont.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-kennedy-bipartisan-legislation-to-restore-wetlands-and-migratory-bird-habitats-passes-senate-and-heads-to-presidents-desk", "Heinrich, Kennedy Bipartisan Legislation to Restore Wetlands and Migratory Bird Habitats Passes Senate and Heads to President\u2019s Desk", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, and U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) announced that their bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) through 2030 has passed the Senate, as part of the America\u2019s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThis reauthorization will continue to support our most successful public-private conservation partnership, and I'm proud to see it head to the President\u2019s desk,\" said Heinrich. \"The bipartisan North American Wetlands Conservation Act helps conserve New Mexico\u2019s unique waterfowl and the wetlands they depend on for our future generations while investing in our flourishing outdoor recreation economy. The President should sign this bill immediately.\u201d\n\n\u201cLouisiana\u2019s wetlands are a big part of our state\u2019s outdoor sportsman culture and geographical beauty. The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is an important step to preserve our wildlife and protect our environment\u2019s natural defense system,\u201d said Kennedy.\n\nNAWCA was originally enacted in 1989 to provide federal matching grants\u2014in partnership with funding from state and local governments, private industry, and non-profit organizations\u2014for projects that conserve North America\u2019s wetlands, waterfowl, and wildlife.\n\nNew Mexico has 14 NAWCA projects either completed or underway, which have conserved 22,632 acres of wildlife habitat. NAWCA funding of more than $5.7 million stimulated partner contributions of over $14 million in the state.\n\nAbout NAWCA:\n\nWetlands secure freshwater supplies, recharge aquifers, and mitigate soil erosion and flooding. In addition, waterfowl, migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife depend on wetlands for habitat, food, and migration stopovers. This wildlife also supports a multi-billion-dollar outdoor recreation economy, including fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. NAWCA funding has been critical to acquiring, restoring, and enhancing wetlands in all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico. In total, more than 3,300 NAWCA projects have contributed to the conservation and restoration of more than 32 million acres of wetlands all across North America.\n\nNAWCA has provided a great return on investment, generating, on average, two additional dollars for every federal dollar. Over the program\u2019s history, federal grants totaling more than $2.28 billion have spurred $4.53 billion for NAWCA projects through matching funds. NAWCA funds have also supported an average of 7,500 jobs each year and more than $5 billion in annual economic activity.\n\nThe legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.).\n\nThe North American Wetlands Conservation Act is endorsed by Ducks Unlimited, Congressional Sportsmen\u2019s Foundation, the Nature Conservancy, National Wildlife Federation, New Mexico Wildlife Federation, Delta Waterfowl, Boone and Crockett, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Audubon, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Outdoor Industry Association, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and Restore America\u2019s Estuaries.\n\nA one-page summary of the bill is here.\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-votes-to-keep-government-open-secures-additional-15-billion-for-hermits-peak/calf-canyon-recovery", "Heinrich Votes to Keep Government Open, Secures Additional $1.5 Billion for Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Recovery", "2024-12-20", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted to pass a continuing resolution that will keep federal agencies funded through March 14, 2025.\n\nIn addition to avoiding a disastrous Republican-caused government shutdown, the Continuing Resolution funds critically needed disaster assistance for communities across New Mexico and the country, delivers an additional $1.5 billion for New Mexicans recovering and rebuilding from the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, extends the period that victims may start claims with the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office, delivers necessary disaster relief for farmers, and extends the 2018 Farm Bill for one more year while Congress continues work to pass a new farm bill that best supports working families, the farmers that produce our food and fiber, and our rural communities.\n\n\u201cDespite Elon Musk and Donald Trump\u2019s best efforts, Democrats came together to avert a government shutdown that would\u2019ve devastated our economy, hurt working families, and thrust our government into chaos right before Christmas.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased we secured a number of my top priorities, including $1.5 billion aimed at helping New Mexicans recover and rebuild from the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. While we got this done on behalf of working families, this was far from a success.\n\n\u201cIf the last two days proved anything, it\u2019s that Republicans are willing to use working people as pawns, bending to the whims of an unelected billionaire and his puppet \u2014 even if it means risking YOUR paycheck, YOUR health care, and YOUR family\u2019s well-being.\n\n\u201cMy North Star has and continues to be passing serious appropriations bills and delivering for New Mexico and the American people. That\u2019s who I fight for.\u201d\n\nHeinrich will continue pressing House and Senate leadership to take up and pass full-year appropriations bills that the Senate Appropriations Committee passed on a bipartisan vote. In total, those bills contain over $300 million for New Mexico and more than $124 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for 138 local projects across the state.\n\nAs a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Heinrich helped secure the following in the Continuing Resolution passed today:\n\n$1.5 billion for Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Relief\n\nHeinrich, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) successfully secured an additional $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.\n\nThe Continuing Resolution also extends the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit\u2019s Peak Claims Office to March 14, 2025. The lawmakers are continuing to call for the passage of their Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation they introduced last year to extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit\u2019s Peak Claims Office through the end of 2027.\n\nThe New Mexico Congressional Delegation has now secured a total of $5.45 billion in federal resources to help New Mexicans recover and rebuild since the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire started in April 2022.\n\nLast month, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez announced that President Biden\u2019s disaster supplemental request included transfer authority for $1.5 billion to help New Mexicans recover from the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez also sent a letter urging the FEMA Director of the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office and the FEMA Director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office to address concerns from New Mexicans about the process for receiving compensation from the Claims Office and help families get the relief and compensation needed to recover.\n\nKey Public Health Extensions\n\nAmong other health provisions, Heinrich secured an extension of the special diabetes program for Type I diabetes, including an extension of funding for special diabetes programs for Native Americans. Critical flexibilities for federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics providing telehealth in health shortage areas \u2014 including mental health and substance use disorder treatment \u2014 will now be extended. This will allow for continued patient care without the hurdle of the Medicare in-person requirements for treatment maintenance.\n\nAdditionally, there will be a delay to hospital payment cuts in New Mexico for disproportionate share hospitals. These vital hospitals continue to serve predominantly uninsured and underinsured New Mexicans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-announces-2024-nominees-to-the-united-states-service-academies", "Heinrich Announces 2024 Nominees to the United States Service Academies", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced his nominees to the United States Service Academies. A nomination is required to attend the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy; the U.S. Coast Guard Academy does not require a nomination. Being nominated is a significant honor. The application process is rigorous, and only the most qualified and meritorious candidates receive a nomination.\n\n\"Our nation\u2019s service academies provide exceptional education, training, and experience that prepare students for leadership roles in our armed forces as well as the skills needed to succeed after their military service,\" said Heinrich. \"I'm pleased to announce and congratulate this year's nominees \u2014 these students embody the best of New Mexico, and they have shown incredible initiative. I commend them on their commitment to serve our country.\"\n\nThe United States Service Academies offer four-year college educations to qualified students. Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy receive commissions in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Merchant Marine, or Coast Guard, and are obligated to serve for at least five years after graduation.\n\nThe following students received nominations through Senator Heinrich's office:\n\nUnited States Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado\n\nMatthew Cao of Albuquerque\n\nJacqueline Cervantes Charlifue of Santa Fe\n\nTanner Colburn of Albuquerque\n\nZachary Fernandez of Albuquerque\n\nJannik Garcia of Albuquerque\n\nEva Love of Albuquerque\n\nEmma Martinez of Anthony\n\nMatthew Sauceda of Albuquerque\n\nArianna Valenzuela of Rio Rancho\n\nCarlos Wendler of Las Cruces\n\nUnited States Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland\n\nNicholas Angelley of Santa Fe\n\nIvan Belyaev of Albuquerque\n\nLuke Brown of Albuquerque\n\nPepper Cayme of Hobbs\n\nHyunoo Kim of Los Alamos\n\nMarcel LeFevre of Tijeras\n\nNora McDaniel of Albuquerque\n\nIsaiah Ocampo of Socorro\n\nDiego Rael of Santa Fe\n\nChloe Shaw of Albuquerque\n\nUnited States Military Academy at West Point, New York\n\nAntonio Ali of Rio Rancho\n\nLuis Cusicanqui Tarquino of Holloman Air Force Base*\n\nMatthew McCargish of Albuquerque\n\nSavanah McGhan Barthel of Albuquerque\n\nJonah Pratt of Albuquerque\n\nDominic Quintana of Albuquerque\n\nAidan Rosette of Albuquerque\n\nCharles Vause of Rio Rancho\n\nOwen Wagner of Albuquerque\n\nAdam Walton of Rio Rancho\n\nUnited States Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York\n\nMichael Bane of Los Alamos\n\nLuis Cusicanqui Tarquino of Holloman Air Force Base*\n\nEvan Kennedy of Roswell\n\nMario Leyba Jr. of Bernalillo\n\nValerie Mendoza of Anthony\n\nMcKynna Motes of Reserve\n\nSarah Romero of Rio Rancho\n\nCarroll Santiago of Los Lunas\n\nJason Shelton Jr. of Edgewood\n\nElizabeth Titus of Albuquerque\n\n*Indicates a double nomination.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-announces-jasmine-dimitriou-as-energy-and-natural-resources-committee-staff-director-additional-hires", "Heinrich Announces Jasmine Dimitriou as Energy and Natural Resources Committee Staff Director, Additional Hires", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 Incoming Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced that Jasmine Dimitriou will serve as the Committee\u2019s Staff Director for the Minority beginning in the 119thCongress.\n\n\u201cTaking on the climate trends that are driving unnatural fires, floods, and droughts across our country, protecting our progress in lowering utility bills and delivering clean energy manufacturing jobs for working families, and investing in both the public lands Americans cherish and the energy technologies that will be foundational to America\u2019s continued global leadership: these are my priorities. And I am thrilled to have Jasmine joining my team to help deliver on them as our new Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Staff Director,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI take pride in having a team that rolls up their sleeves to get the job done every day, no matter the challenges. With her extensive experience, I know Jasmine is ready to take on the work ahead with the determination it requires.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am honored to join incoming Ranking Member Heinrich\u2019s team at the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Senator Heinrich has dedicated his career to shaping a better future for America\u2019s families by championing the solutions we need to some of the most consequential challenges of our time, and nowhere is that clearer than in his work on energy and public lands,\u201d said Dimitriou.\n\nDimitriou most recently served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm. Dimitriou previously served as Legislative Director for U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, and as his Senior Policy Advisor working on energy, science, and climate issues before that. Formerly an American Association for the Advancement of Science/American Chemical Society Science Policy Fellow, Dimitriou earned her B.A. in Chemistry and Biochemistry at Washington University in St. Louis and her Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry from the University of California, Santa Barbara.\n\nAdditionally, Heinrich announced that Ana\u00efs Borja will serve as his Energy Policy Director and Maya Hermann will serve as his Natural Resources Policy Director.\n\nBorja, a Senior Policy Advisor for Heinrich, has served as Heinrich\u2019s lead advisor on energy policy for three years, and has nearly 9 years of experience on Capitol Hill.\n\nHermann, a Senior Policy Advisor for Heinrich, was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has served as Heinrich's lead advisor on natural resources policy since 2009.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leads-bicameral-legislation-to-help-working-families-access-healthy-meals-while-supporting-local-producers", "Heinrich Leads Bicameral Legislation to Help Working Families Access Healthy Meals While Supporting Local Producers", "2024-12-19", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the Fueling Optimal Outcomes through Diet (FOOD) for Health Act, legislation to establish and administer grant funding for Food is Medicine pilot programs nationwide. In the House, the legislation is led by U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-Ill.).\n\nFOOD for Health aims to reduce nutrition-related chronic diseases and address food insecurity by supporting the production of nutritious food.\n\n\u201cWe should be making it easier for working families across New Mexico to put healthy food on the table,\u201d said Heinrich, Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees funding for SNAP, WIC, and other federal nutrition programs. \u201cMy Food for Health Act does exactly that by funding programs that connect rural communities to fresh produce and nutritious foods, supporting New Mexicans' health and our local producers at the same time.\"\n\n\u201cEveryone, no matter where they live, deserves access to healthy foods that fuel their bodies and minds. But like the 40 million Americans who live in food deserts, many of my constituents in urban, suburban, and rural areas live closer to a fast-food restaurant than a grocery store,\u201d said Kelly. \u201cMy bill would address these challenges by supporting Food is Medicine programs to help prevent, manage, and treat diet-related diseases. The best medicine is preventative medicine \u2013 and that includes food.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the FOOD for Health Act directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary, to establish a pilot program that provides grants to Food is Medicine programs around the country while prioritizing local foods and regional diversity. Eligible activities would include providing medically tailored meals, produce prescriptions, on-site emergency food assistance, and individual or group-based culinary education.\n\nParticipants in Food is Medicine programs would be those who struggle with diet-related diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, obesity, HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, and other diseases as determined appropriate by the USDA Secretary.\n\nThe FOOD For Health Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by Roadrunner Food Bank of New Mexico, Food Bank of Eastern New Mexico, Agri-Cultura Cooperative Network, Three Sisters Kitchen, New Mexico Farmers\u2019 Marketing Association, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Feeding America, Foodsmart, Good Food is Good Medicine, and Wound Pros.\n\n\u201cRoadrunner is proud to support the Fueling Optimal Outcomes through Diet (FOOD) for Health Act,\u201d said Katy Anderson, Vice President, Strategy, Partnerships and Advocacy at Roadrunner Food Bank of New Mexico. \u201cRoadrunner has long recognized that many of our communities across the state, rural and metro, lack proper access to fresh produce and healthy calories. These food inequities have a dire impact on the health and wellbeing of too many New Mexicans including children, expecting mothers, and people over fifty. This bill would support our ongoing efforts to provide nutritious meals, expand collaborations with medical providers, and ensure that more people suffering from chronic disease have the foods they need to ensure better health outcomes. We thank Senator Martin Heinrich for bringing forth this legislation and continuing to support the work of New Mexico\u2019s food bank network.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe New Mexico Farmers\u2019 Marketing Association endorses the \u2018Fueling Optimal Out-comes through Diet for Health Act of 2024.\u2019 We stand behind your [Heinrich\u2019s] efforts to expand access to produce prescriptions for all New Mexicans and for patients across the country. We know that, together, we can improve health outcomes for patients while supporting local producers and the local food system. Thank you for championing this innovative and important policy. Please continue to push for its passage,\u201d said Denise Miller, Executive Director of the New Mexico Farmers\u2019 Marketing Association.\n\n\"Agri-Cultura Cooperative Network, a sustainable & regenerative farming organization, and La Cosecha, our equitable food access and nutrition education partner, is in full support of the FOOD for Health Act,\u201d said Helga Garcia Garza, Executive Director, Agri-Cultura Cooperative Network / La Cosecha CSA. \u201cAs urban, rural & tribal farming communities in New Mexico, we are committed to providing the healthiest food production possible, grown with climate-smart organic methods and distributed through our food hub maintaining the highest level of food safety standards and certification. Our local production of New Mexico grown fruits & vegetables are distributed at their highest level of nutritional value. Highlighting the mindset of Food is Medicine and providing nutrition related assistance that is evidence and value based in support of healthy environment, food production, and nutrition.\"\n\nIn a statement issued by the Board of Three Sisters Kitchen, members stated, \"At Three Sisters Kitchen, we love helping people feel more connected to where their food comes from, as they take control of their nutritional health and build confidence cooking & eating locally grown food. We also understand the importance of increasing access to healthy food and nutrition and cooking education as key contributors to healthy eating behaviors. The FOOD for Health Act will ensure that our communities have access to good food and cooking education opportunities that lead to healthy lives and celebrate food traditions and the bounty of our local food systems. \"\n\n\u201cThe Wound Pros applauds and supports the introduction of the FOOD for Health Act,\u201d said Dr. Bill Releford, CEO of The Wound Pros and owner of Bloom Ranch of Acton. \u201cWe have witnessed first-hand how essential a healthy diet and access to nutritious food are for a patient\u2019s overall health and well-being. Effective treatment goes beyond medical intervention and must encompass holistic lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, many patients still lack access to or cannot afford healthy food options. We look forward to working with congressional champions to advance the FOOD for Health Act to ensure that more individuals have the opportunity to benefit from nutritious, local food as part of their care.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith every year that passes, hundreds of billions in healthcare costs and countless avoidable deaths result from chronic conditions related to poor nutrition,\u201d said Dr. Jason Langheier, CEO and co-founder of Foodsmart. \u201cThe connection between a proper diet and vastly improved health outcomes is indisputable based on the scientific evidence, and everyone in America should have access to a primary care dietitian who is empowered to tailor a personalized \u2018foodcare\u2019 strategy on behalf of their patients. Congresswoman Kelly's FOOD for Health Act is a key step towards helping seniors with any disease to receive the \u2018foodcare\u2019 they need, ensuring that key agencies gather the data that they need to make these interventions available more broadly.\u201d\n\nA bill summary is here.\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-legislation-to-clean-up-abandoned-mines-signed-into-law", "Heinrich Legislation to Clean Up Abandoned Mines Signed into Law", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced today that his Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act was signed into law by President Joe Biden. Co-led with U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), this legislation will make it easier for \u201cGood Samaritans,\u201d such as state agencies, nonprofits, and other groups, to clean up and improve water quality in and around abandoned hardrock mines.\n\nHeinrich applauded the passage of the bill in the U.S. House of Representatives last week and hailed the Senate\u2019s unanimous passage of the bill in July. The House companion legislation is led by U.S. Representatives Celeste Maloy (R-Utah), Mary Peltola (D-Alaska), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.).\n\n\u201cOur Good Samaritan legislation is now the law of the land, after more than 25 years of hard work to get it over the finish line. Good Samaritans will no longer face hurdles preventing them from helping to protect the land, water, fish, and wildlife our communities rely on. This victory belongs to every single person who rolled up their sleeves to fix this longstanding roadblock, and I\u2019d like to thank those who have carried the baton to get us to this point. Now it\u2019s time to get to work to clean up abandoned mines in New Mexico and across the country, making our water cleaner and lands safer,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\n\u201cAfter years of red tape and unnecessary barriers, Good Samaritans willing to clean up long-abandoned mine sites can finally move forward with meaningful remediation. I\u2019m proud to have led the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act with Senator Heinrich and look forward to the positive impacts this law will have on our land and water in Idaho,\u201d said Risch.\n\n\"Today, we celebrate Utahns having more freedom,\u201d said Maloy. \u201cWith this bill signed into law, Utahns can bypass bureaucratic hurdles and senseless lawsuits to clean up abandoned mines for the benefit of their communities. This achievement is the culmination of decades of bipartisan work, and I want to thank everyone who helped get this commonsense bill across the finish line.\u201d\n\n\u201cAbandoned hardrock mines in Nevada and across the country are poisoning our waters, threatening Tribal lands, and their hazardous landscapes have injured and killed Americans. For 25 years, bills like this one to clean up these mines have stalled because of Washington politics. Today, we made history by finally empowering nonprofits and agencies that are willing and able to assist this long overdue clean up,\u201d said Lee. \u201cBecause of commonsense bipartisanship, our nation is now on a path to cleaner waters and safer landscapes.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nThe U.S. has hundreds of thousands of abandoned hardrock mine features, of which at least 33,000 pose environmental hazards according to the GAO. Organizations that have no legal or financial responsibility to an abandoned mine \u2013 true Good Samaritans \u2013 want to volunteer to remediate some of these sites. Unfortunately, liability rules would leave these Good Samaritans legally responsible for all the pre-existing pollution from a mine, even though they had no involvement with the mine prior to cleaning it up.\n\nThe Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act creates a pilot permitting program to enable not-for-profit cleanup efforts to move forward, while ensuring Good Samaritans have the skills and resources to comply with federal oversight. This pilot program is designed for lower risk projects that will improve water and soil quality or otherwise protect human health.\n\nA one-page summary is here.\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\nHeinrich championed a provision in the Infrastructure Law to establish the first-ever abandoned hardrock mine reclamation program in the Department of the Interior. With the passage of the Good Samaritan legislation, public-private partnerships can use this program to jumpstart abandoned mine cleanups.\n\nIn November, the Biden administration announced its support for the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Brain Schatz (D-Hawaii), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).\n\nIn the House, the legislation is cosponsored U.S. Representatives John Curtis (R-Utah), Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), Burgess Owens (R-Utah), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Mark Amodei (R-Nev.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Blake Moore (R-Utah), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Rick Crawford (R-Ark.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Garrett Graves (R-La.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Elijah Crane (R-Ariz.), Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D- N.M.), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Troy Nehls (R-Texas), Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio), Vince Fong (R-Calif.), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), Reuben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), and Glen Thompson (R-Pa.).\n\nThe Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act has garnered widespread support from agencies and organizations:\n\nStates: Western Governor\u2019s Association, Western States Water Council, Interstate Mining Compact Commission, National Association of Abandoned Mine Land Programs, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Attorney General of Colorado, Governor of Nevada\n\nNational conservation organizations: American Rivers, American Sportfishing Association, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, National Parks Conservation Association, National Wildlife Federation, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Conservation Alliance, Nature Conservancy, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trout Unlimited.\n\nMining industry organizations: National Mining Association, American Exploration and Mining Association.\n\nTribal leaders: National Congress of American Indians.\n\nOutdoor Recreation organizations and businesses: American Fly Fishing Trade Association, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Outdoor Alliance, and dozens of state and local organizations and businesses.\n\nWildlife and sportsmen\u2019s organizations: American Fly Fishing Trade Association, American Sportfishing Association, Angler Action Foundation, Archery Trade Association, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S), Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Boone and Crockett Club, Campfire Club of America, Congressional Sportsmen\u2019s Foundation, Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports, Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, Fly Fishers International, Houston Safari Club, Izaak Walton League of America, Mule Deer Foundation, National Association of Forest Service Retirees, National Deer Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Wildlife Federation, New York State Conservation Council, North American Grouse Partnership, Orion: The Hunter\u2019s Institute, Pheasants Forever, Pope & Young Club, Property and Environment Research Center, Public Lands Foundation, Quail Forever, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters, The Nature Conservancy, The Wildlife Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-named-ranking-member-of-senate-energy-and-natural-resources-committee", "Heinrich Named Ranking Member of Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) has been named Ranking Member for the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee for the 119th Congress.\n\nThe ENR Committee plays a critical role in setting national energy policies and managing our nation\u2019s public lands within the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Forest Service. The Committee also oversees the U.S. Department of Energy and has jurisdiction over U.S. territories and nuclear waste policy.\n\n\u201cI am honored to have been chosen by my colleagues to serve as Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The responsibility to lead our Caucus in driving our energy and natural resources work is one I take very seriously. At the same time, I am clear-eyed about the work we will need to do to defend and protect our communities from the threats we will inevitably face from the incoming administration.\n\n\u201cAs I take on this role, I want to be clear about who I am working for: the electrician looking for a job in her home community, the family trying to make ends meet by lowering their utility bill, the manufacturer looking to expand but needing a strong electric grid, and those just looking to clear their mind or fill their freezer on public lands nearby. The reality is that all of us will need steadfast leadership to deliver water security for communities and farmers, and to slow and mitigate the effects of climate change as the unnatural disasters it is causing continue to wreak havoc\u2014 from New Mexico to North Carolina. I will work every day to deliver that leadership.\n\n\u201cBeing an AmeriCorps volunteer on the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge inspired my career in public service. Building a carbon-fiber solar car in college informed my understanding of the way energy technology could revolutionize the way communities and industries function. And camping in the Gila Wilderness is where I decided to run for public office. My work as Ranking Member won't be philosophical or ideological. It will be grounded in my own love of public lands, my own understanding of energy technologies, and my unwavering commitment to deliver for the people and places of New Mexico.\u201d\n\nNew Mexico has a storied history of its U.S. Senators taking on leadership of the ENR Committee and its predecessor committees, including former U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.), Pete Domenici (R-N.M.), Clinton Anderson (D-N.M.), and Carl Hatch (D-N.M.).\n\nBackground on Heinrich\u2019s Longtime Leadership on Public Lands and Natural Resources:\n\nAs a former outfitter guide, outdoor educator, lifetime sportsman, and conservationist, Heinrich has dedicated his entire career to protecting New Mexico\u2019s public lands and natural resources.\n\nAs a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Heinrich championed the designation of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Rio Grande del Norte National Monuments, and passed legislation to establish White Sands National Park, the Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah, and Columbine-Hondo Wilderness Areas.\n\nHeinrich helped secure the resources and support for new land acquisitions that opened up new public access to the Sabinoso Wilderness, acquire the Dawson Elk Valley Ranch in northeastern New Mexico, and secure the addition of the historic L Bar Ranch property to western New Mexico\u2019s Marquez Wildlife Area \u2014 the single greatest addition to protected public land in New Mexico in a generation.\n\nHeinrich also played a leading role in securing strong, bipartisan support for the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act in 2019 and theGreat American Outdoors Act in 2020, two of the most significant pieces of conservation legislation to be signed into law in decades. The Dingell Act established the most protected wilderness in New Mexico in nearly 40 years and also included Heinrich\u2019s Every Kid Outdoors Act, which provides free access to national parks and other public lands to all American fourth grade students and their families.\n\nHeinrich is continuing to lead the effort to pass the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, which would provide enhanced protections for the watershed that supports the Gila Wilderness. In this Congress, Heinrich and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) have also introduced legislation to establish Cerro de la Olla Wilderness within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.\n\nBefore he was elected to Congress, Heinrich led the successful community campaign in the mid-2000\u2019s to establish the Ojito Wilderness \u2014 on Bureau of Land Management lands about an hour northwest of Albuquerque. The Ojito became the first new protected wilderness area in New Mexico in decades and laid the foundation for future successful community-driven campaigns to protect and designate National Conservation Lands throughout New Mexico.\n\nBackground on Heinrich\u2019s Longtime Leadership on Energy Policy:\n\nWith a background in engineering, Heinrich is a climate and clean energy champion in Congress. Throughout his time in Congress, he has successfully passed policies to ensure American energy security and unlock unprecedented economic opportunity for working people by building our nation\u2019s clean energy future.\n\nHeinrich is the Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Electrification Caucus, and the Founder and Chair of the Senate Fusion Caucus. He has long worked to increase our investments in widespread electrification of residential and commercial buildings, transportation, and industrial processes. He is also leading forward-looking investments in fusion and geothermal energy, and the limitless clean energy opportunities they can deliver.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, which has created a manufacturing renaissance throughout the country and established New Mexico at the center of the nation\u2019s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.\n\nHeinrich has also long led efforts to improve and expand the capacity of our nation\u2019s transmission infrastructure, which is urgently needed for reliability, affordability, and clean electricity. In May, Heinrich welcomed the announcement that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) heeded his calls to finalize a strong transmission planning and cost allocation rule. Heinrich is also leading major legislation to strengthen electric reliability by improving the way that we permit, plan, and pay for transmission infrastructure \u2014 dubbing these bills as the \u201cthree Ps of transmission.\u201d\n\nIn 2023, Heinrich delivered a keynote address at an advanced energy conference in Albuquerque where he laid out his vision to position New Mexico at the center of the nation's clean energy future. He said, \u201cDone right, we will continue to create projects that export clean electrons, while importing capital and creating careers in the skilled trades that New Mexicans can build their families around. We will establish new industries. We will reshape our state\u2019s entire economy.\u201d\n\nHeinrich also recently celebrated the groundbreaking of the new SunZia Transmission Line, the largest renewable energy project in America, which he worked for over a decade to advance. When completed, the SunZia Transmission and SunZia Wind projects will become the largest renewable energy infrastructure project in U.S. history, transporting up to 3,500 megawatts of energy from New Mexico to markets in Arizona and California. The project is expected to create over 2,000 jobs during construction and support over 100 permanent jobs once online.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-secures-wins-for-nm-military-installations-national-labs-in-fy2025-national-defense-bill", "Heinrich Secures Wins for N.M. Military Installations, National Labs in FY2025 National Defense Bill", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Final bill passed by the Senate and heading to President Biden\u2019s desk also includes historic pay raise for junior enlisted service members\n\nWASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) welcomed Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25). The legislation includes major wins that Heinrich secured, including investments in New Mexico\u2019s service members, military installations, national labs, and job-creating initiatives throughout the state. The House of Representatives passed the FY25 NDAA last week. Now that the Senate has passed the bill, it heads to President Joe Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThis is an incredibly important piece of legislation for our active-duty service members and our national security,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cIt\u2019s important for Congress to pass a bipartisan defense bill every year to ensure military readiness and strengthen the national security missions at our military installations and national labs in New Mexico. I\u2019m also proud that we secured important forward-looking policies based on our work in the Bipartisan Senate AI Working Group to equip our military to maintain its competitive advantage over our adversaries in emerging technology fields like artificial intelligence, high performance computing, and advanced biotechnology. The investments we are delivering in this year\u2019s defense bill will help our military make our country and the world safer.\u201d\n\nThe NDAA sets the Department of Defense (DOD) spending levels and policies for the upcoming fiscal year and authorizes funding for the U.S. Department of Energy's programs at Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories, as well as the Department of Energy's environmental cleanup programs including the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).\n\nSenator Heinrich has long championed provisions that benefit New Mexico\u2019s service members, national laboratories, and defense missions. Senator Heinrich served as a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee from 2013 to 2020 and as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee from 2021 to 2022. He is also a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and a member of the Senate Appropriations Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Subcommittee.\n\nDuring his time in Congress, Heinrich has doubled the total budgets for Sandia and Los Alamos, significantly increasing the total employees and local economic impact of both labs. A detailed list of accomplishments that Heinrich has delivered for Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) can be found here. A detailed list of accomplishments that Heinrich has delivered for Sandia National Laboratories can be found here. Heinrich has also delivered a total of more than $1.5 billion for military construction projects at defense installations in New Mexico over the course of his career in Congress.\n\nBelow is a list of many of the programs and provisions that Senator Heinrich advocated for during the bill writing process that were included in the FY25 NDAA bill.\n\nSenate Defense Authorization Bill Highlights\n\nArtificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies\n\nHeinrich, a co-founder of the bipartisan Senate Artificial Intelligence (AI) Caucus, successfully supported the authorization of over $521 million for artificial intelligence and autonomy programs in the FY25 NDAA.\n\nHeinrich, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) secured a new provision to invest in the Department of Defense\u2019s infrastructure for advanced computing and artificial intelligence, building on the success of the existing High Performance Computing Modernization Program.\n\nThe FY25 NDAA also includes a provision that requires reporting to Congress on any Department of Defense approval of lethal autonomous weapons systems, mirroring an amendment that Heinrich proposed earlier this year. A separate provision builds on legislation that Heinrich secured in the FY20 NDAA to require the Department of Defense to have a plan for a strong digital engineering workforce, including the appointment of a Chief Digital Engineering Recruitment and Management Officer for the Department of Defense. The new provision reinforces the need for the Department of Defense to implement the original requirement with urgency, and to focus specifically on filling out the artificial intelligence workforce at the Department of Defense.\n\nMany programs authorized by the FY25 NDAA reflect priorities that Heinrich included in the Bipartisan Senate AI Working Group\u2019s policy roadmap earlier this year, including an investment in infrastructure to understand the implications that artificial intelligence has for advanced biotechnology.\n\nNative American Lands Environmental Mitigation Program (NALEMP)\n\nHeinrich successfully included provisions authorizing $5 million for the NALEMP program, extending cooperative agreements between Tribes and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from two to five years, and requiring the Department of Defense to better remediate unexploded ordnance on Tribal lands, which has been a longstanding issue for the Pueblo of Isleta.\n\nThe purpose of the NALEMP program is to address environmental impacts on Tribal lands from former Department of Defense activities with maximum tribal participation, through government-to-government consultation. Impacts that NALEMP helps address include: hazardous materials, munitions debris, unsafe buildings or structures, lead-based paint or asbestos, and abandoned equipment.\n\nHistoric Pay Raise for Junior Enlisted Service Members\n\nA Heinrich-supported provision authorizes a 14.5 percent pay raise for the most junior-ranking enlisted service members, with the rest of the force receiving a 4.5 percent pay raise.\n\nSandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories\n\nThe FY25 NDAA authorizes $1.5 billion for LANL\u2019s ongoing research and development programs. The funding supports personnel, equipment, and other activities at LANL. An additional $48 million is authorized to construct a plutonium mission safety and quality building.\n\nWithin the FY25 NDAA's overall $25 billion budget for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Sandia National Laboratories will receive funding to support and sustain system integration, engineering, and science programs. Sandia is also receiving $50 million in funding to complete a facilities upgrade of the Power Sources Technology Group, which provides comprehensive capabilities in power source research.\n\nAdditional Heinrich-led provisions:\n\nDirect the National Nuclear Security Administration to brief Congress on outstanding issues regarding the remediation and conveyance of land at Los Alamos National Laboratory.\n\nDirect the Administrator for Nuclear Security and Directors of Los Alamos, Lawrence Livermore, and Sandia National Laboratories, along with leaders from other national labs, to evaluate site strategies that can aid the NNSA in making greater use of satellite facilities in areas neighboring existing laboratory and site installations.\n\nIn addition, a Heinrich-supported provision authorizes over $277 million for environmental cleanup efforts at Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories.\n\nWaste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP)\n\nThe FY25 NDAA authorizes over $425 million to operate WIPP including $11 million to continue construction of additional ventilation and a new utility shaft.\n\nDirected Energy\n\nHeinrich successfully included language in the FY25 NDAA that will:\n\nDirect the Department of Defense and industry partners to conduct a study on the potential for the development and use of synthetic materials in directed energy weapons systems. This will help to alleviate foreign dependency on directed energy weapons materials.\n\nDirect the Department of Defense to assess the directed energy industrial base in order to mitigate supply chain failures.\n\nRequire the Department of Defense to report to Congress a directed energy roadmap and associated funding requirements for each organization and element with the Department carrying out work related to directed energy capabilities. As the Department\u2019s strategic goals are better articulated, industry and academia can make the investments necessary to secure directed energy supply chains for the future.\n\nSpace Force Modeling, Simulation & Analysis Hub\n\nThe FY25 NDAA authorizes $5 million for the ongoing establishment of a U.S. Space Force modeling and simulation hub at Kirtland Air Force Base.\n\nReadiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program\n\nThe FY25 NDAA authorizes $188 million for the Department of Defense\u2019s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program. Cannon Air Force Base, Melrose Air Force Range, and White Sands Missile Range utilize the REPI to prevent encroachment and preserve their testing and training missions. The program as a whole is critical to assisting military installations and ranges as they are increasingly impacted by extreme weather, flooding, wildfires, drought, and other threats to resilience.\n\nStrengthening Solid Rocket Motor Production\n\nHeinrich secured report language directing the Department of Defense to create a strategy for ensuring the United States defense industrial base can meet solid rocket motor (SRM) requirements for current and future defense programs. Industry and universities, specifically New Mexico Tech, are leading the way in bringing us away from using Cold War era technologies, looking at advanced manufacturing of SRMs and scalable affordable processes and unique chemistries to bring the nation and New Mexico as a leader in innovative SRM production capabilities. SRMs are used in everything from commercial, civil and military space propulsion systems, to hypersonics, missiles, missile defense, and more.\n\nAdvanced Simulation and Computing for Nuclear Stockpile Stewardship\n\nThe FY25 NDAA authorizes over $879 million in funding for the NNSA\u2019s advanced simulation and computing efforts in the Stockpile Stewardship Program. This program ensures continued reliability of the stockpile and allows realistic simulations on supercomputers to understand how they would behave, without requiring explosive testing.\n\nIntelligence Authorization Act\n\nThe FY25 NDAA includes the Intelligence Authorization Act for FY25, legislation that equips U.S. intelligence agencies with the tools, resources, and personnel they need to protect the American people, while also ensuring congressional oversight over those same agencies.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-welcomes-final-passage-of-water-infrastructure-bill-and-southwest-border-regional-commission-expansion", "Heinrich Welcomes Final Passage of Water Infrastructure Bill and Southwest Border Regional Commission Expansion", "2024-12-18", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) is welcoming the Senate\u2019s final passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a bill that authorizes Army Corps of Engineers water projects in New Mexico and nationwide.\n\nWithin the bill, Heinrich championed provisions to restore the Middle Rio Grande Bosque, to support more collaborative management of the Upper Rio Grande Basin, renew and expand the nationwide Tribal Partnership Program, start feasibility studies for new water projects across New Mexico, increase federal support for acequias, and increase funding for Western drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.\n\nHeinrich also successfully secured the inclusion of his legislation to reauthorize and expand the scope of the Southwest Border Regional Commission within the underlying WRDA.\n\nThe House passed WRDA last week, and it will now go to President Joe Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cAs New Mexicans continue to grapple with the strain of less predictable rainfall, reduced water supply, and more frequent extreme flash flood events, these investments in our stormwater management, irrigation infrastructure, and drinking water infrastructure are more important than ever,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m also proud that we secured the passage of my legislation to expand the impact of the Southwest Border Regional Commission so it can boost economic progress in our southern border communities. For years, I have worked to secure investments to stand up and grow this Commission that bolsters economic development and delivers strategic investments to communities all across New Mexico.\u201d\n\nNew Mexico Water Infrastructure Priorities in the Water Resources Development Act include:\n\nBosque Wildfire Restoration Project Authorization Amendment\n\nAuthorizes a wildfire prevention and restoration efforts in the Middle Rio Grande Bosque, including the removal of jetty jacks.\n\nNational Academy of Sciences Rio Grande Basin Management Study\n\nAuthorizes a National Academy of Sciences study in collaboration with the Corps of Engineers on the management and operations of dams and reservoirs in the Upper Rio Grande Basin. The Bureau of Reclamation is also expected to participate as a collaborator in the study.\n\nFunding Increase for Water Infrastructure\n\nAuthorizes an additional $100 million for drinking water, wastewater, and storm water projects for seven Western states, including New Mexico.\n\nFunding Increase for the Tribal Partnership Program\n\nIncreases the Tribal Partnership Program authorization by an additional $2.5 million.\n\nAcequias Reconnaissance Cost Share\n\nEnsures that the federal cost share for reconnaissance studies related to acequias is 100 percent.\n\nNew Feasibility Studies\n\nAuthorizes feasibility studies for a water supply project in Do\u00f1a Ana County, a flood risk management and ecosystem restoration project in the Nambe River Watershed, and a flood risk management project in Otero County.\n\nSouthwest Border Regional Commission Expansion:\n\nThe Water Resources Development Act also includes provisions that mirror Heinrich\u2019s Southwest Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act, including expansion of the New Mexico counties included within the Commission\u2019s reach, and a significant increase in authorized federal funding levels for the Commission.\n\nThe Southwest Border Regional Commission (SBRC) is one of eight authorized federal regional commissions and authorities, which are congressionally-chartered, federal-state partnerships created to promote economic development in their respective regions. Congress first authorized the establishment of the SBRC in 2008 to promote economic development in the southern border regions of New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas.\n\nLast year, Heinrich led the introduction of the Southwest Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act, legislation to reauthorize and fully fund the Southwest Border Regional Commission (SBRC). The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), and Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.).\n\nThe provisions that Heinrich successfully included:\n\nExpand SBRC\u2019s jurisdiction to include the following counties in New Mexico: Bernalillo, Cibola, Curry, De Baca, Guadalupe, Roosevelt, Torrance, Lea, and Valencia. These are in addition to Catron, Grant, Hidalgo, Luna, Sierra, Socorro, Lincoln, Otero, Eddy, Do\u00f1a Ana, and Chaves Counties in New Mexico, which are already included within the SBRC\u2019s jurisdiction.\n\nGreatly increase federal grant authorizations to New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas, increasing to $40 million in annual funding for FY25-FY29.\n\nSince its creation, Heinrich has fought to successfully stand up the SBRC and give southern border communities equitable access to federal investments that help them thrive.\n\nIn 2020, Heinrich, along with former U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.), helped secure an initial $250,000 of appropriations for the SBRC to jumpstart and expand its operations.\n\nIn 2021, Heinrich, as a new member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, helped secure $1 million for the SBRC in the FY22 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The total funding that Heinrich secured in the overall FY22 Appropriations Bills for SBRC was $2.5 million. Heinrich also helped to pass the Infrastructure Law, which included $1.25 million for the SBRC.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich applauded President Biden\u2019s nomination of Juan Eduardo Sanchez to be the first Federal Co-Chairman of the SBRC and voted to confirm Sanchez to the SBRC later that year. He also helped secure $5 million in funding for the SBRC in the FY23 Appropriations Bills.\n\nIn 2023, Heinrich led efforts to secure $8 million in FY24 funding for the SBRC, including $3 million in the FY24 Agricultural Appropriations Bill that he authored as Chairman.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich successfully included $14 million for the SBRC in the Senate Appropriations Committee-passed FY25 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill. This comes in addition to the $2 million that Heinrich successfully included in the Committee-passed FY25 Agriculture Appropriations Bill and the $5 million Heinrich successfully included in the Committee-passed FY25 Transportation Appropriations Bill.\n\nAccording to a recent report published by Heinrich, as Chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, the proven success of other regional commissions shows that a fully funded and active SBRC would support vital economic development goals, grow and diversify New Mexico\u2019s economy, and create high-quality jobs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/all-pueblo-council-governors-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house", "All Pueblo Council of Governors Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from James R. Mountain, Chairman of the All Pueblo Council of Governors for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"I write on behalf of the All Pueblo Council of Governors to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\n\"We know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve water settlements, and the need to protect and improve federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is a proven and effective communicator with expertise in each of these issue areas. Her expertise in water policy, unwavering voice to protect and preserve our public lands, and her dedication to upholding the Government\u2019s solemn obligations to Indian Country make Rep. Melanie Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of these challenges.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/mescalero-apache-tribe-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee", "Mescalero Apache Tribe Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Thora Walsh-Padilla, President of the Mescalero Apache Tribe for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cI write on behalf of the Mescalero Apache Tribe to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\n\"We know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve water settlements, and the need to protect and improve federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is a proven and effective communicator with expertise in each of these issue areas. Her expertise in water policy, unwavering voice to protect and preserve our public lands, and her dedication to upholding the Government\u2019s solemn obligations to Indian Country make Rep. Melanie Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of these challenges.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/pueblo-san-felipe-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee", "Pueblo of San Felipe Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Anthony Ortiz, Governor of the Pueblo of San Felipe for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cI write on behalf of Pueblo of San Felipe to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\n\"We know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve water settlements, and the need to protect and improve federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is a proven and effective communicator with expertise in each of these issue areas. Her expertise in water policy, unwavering voice to protect and preserve our public lands, and her dedication to upholding the Government\u2019s solemn obligations to Indian Country make Rep. Melanie Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of these challenges.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/pueblo-santa-ana-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee-natural", "Pueblo of Santa Ana Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Myron Armijo, Governor of the Pueblo of Santa Ana for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"The Pueblo of Santa Ana writes to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\nWe know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve Indian water rights settlements, and the need to protect and improve federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is a proven and effective communicator with expertise in each of these issue areas. Her expertise in water policy, her unwavering voice to protect and preserve ouR public lands, and her dedication to upholding the Government\u2019s solemn obligations to Indian Country make Representative Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of these challenges.\u201c\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/pueblo-tesuque-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee-natural", "Pueblo of Tesuque Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Milton Herrera, Governor of the Pueblo of Tesuque for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cI write on behalf of the Pueblo of Tesuque to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\nWe know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve water settlements, and the need to protect and improve Federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is a proven and effective communicator with expertise in each of these issue areas. Her expertise in water policy, unwavering voice to protect and preserve our public lands, and her dedication to upholding the Government's solemn obligations to Indian Country make Rep. Melanie Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of these challenges.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/san-carlos-apache-tribe-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee", "San Carlos Apache Tribe Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Terry Rambler, Chairman of the San Carlos Apache Tribe for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"On behalf of the over 17,300 members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe (\u201cTribe\u201d), we respectfully and humbly request your support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\n\n\"With Ranking Member Grijalva stepping down as the lead Democrat of this Committee, which is critical for tribal communities, there are big shoes to fill to ensure the federal government fulfills its treaty and trust responsibilities to Tribal Nations. Representative Stansbury has Representative Grijalva\u2019s backing; and, we have witnessed first-hand her fierce commitment to protecting tribal traditional ways of life and strengthening the government-to-government relationship. She has gone to the mat for the Tribe in her efforts to protect sacred Oak Flat, and we worked with her on the successful legislative battle to protect sacred Chaco Canyon this Congress.\n\n\"Like Representative Grijalva, she is a breath of fresh air in the U.S. Congress, giving 100% to assist Tribes because it is the right thing to do. Sadly, many Members of Congress say they support and champion tribes; but, when push comes to shove, they will support other Democratic constituencies over tribes every time when there are opposing positions. This was the old way of House Democrats that Representative Grijalva changed. We do not want to go back to the old way.\n\n\"Representative Stansbury has the vision to continue the legacy of Representative Grijalva\u2019s historic tenure. She not only has the experience and relationships to continue partnering with Tribal Nations across the country but also the expertise in protecting this country\u2019s natural resources, having worked on Interior issues at OMB, worked at the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and now serving as a key Member on the House Natural Resources Committee.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/santa-clara-pueblo-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee", "Santa Clara Pueblo Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-17", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Michael Chavarria, Governor of the Santa Clara Pueblo for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cI serve as the governor of the Santa Clara Pueblo, a federally recognized Indian tribe in New Mexico. As Governor, I have worked for years with Rep. Stansbury and hold her in the highest regard.\n\nI understand that there is an election for a new Ranking Member on the House Committee on Natural Resources. Please know that Rep. Stansbury, with her experience in the Executive Branch, the Legislative Branch, as well as with Indian Country and on western land and water issues, is uniquely qualified to fill this position. She is experienced, open-hearted, and even headed. She would make an outstanding Ranking Member.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-lee-juan-tendoy-shoshone-bannock-tribes-supports-rep-stansbury", "Chairman Lee Juan Tendoy of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Chairman Lee Juan Tendoy of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, I write to respectfully request your support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources for the 119 Congress.\n\n\u201cThe 1868 Treaty of Fort Bridger affirms the Fort Hall Indian Reservation as our permanent home and reserved certain rights for our Tribes. These rights include hunting, fishing, and gathering on federal lands. It is essential to the well-being of our people that the federal government uphold its treaty and trust responsibilities to protect our rights, while preserving sacred areas and cultural resources on federal lands. Representative Stansbury is a champion for Tribal Nations throughout the country. Her efforts to protect sacred areas and cultural resources, while upholding federal treaty and trust responsibilities, demonstrate her commitment to ensure that Tribal voices are heard and given precedence.\n\n\u201cWith her decades o f experience working on natural resources and Tribal issues including at the Office o f Management and Budget, serving on the White House Council on Environmental Quality, working as senior staff on the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and now as a Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Representative Stansbury has a deep understanding of the issues and the challenges that Tribes face. Undoubtedly, this experience makes her the preferred choice for Ranking Member o f the House Committee on Natural Resources.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/governor-larry-m-phillips-jr-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house", "Governor Larry M. Phillips Jr. Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Governor Larry M. Phillips Jr. of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"On behalf of Ohkay Owingeh, a federally-recognized Indian Tribe in New Mexico, I am writing to endorse Rep. Melanie Stansbury for Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee. We have worked closely with Rep. Stansbury on a number of issues of importance to the Pueblo, including her sponsorship of H.R. 8685, the Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. Ms. Stansbury has been a tireless advocate of this legislation, working across the aisle and coordinating our efforts with the Senate. She has the leadership skills and political acumen to guide the Committee through the upcoming session of Congress.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T19:07:19Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-urges-senate-leadership-to-help-lower-rx-costs-and-save-rural-pharmacies", "Heinrich Urges Senate Leadership to Help Lower Rx Costs and Save Rural Pharmacies", "2024-12-16", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) is urging Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) to rein in damaging pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) practices that hurt patients and pharmacies.\n\nPBMs are intermediaries that negotiate and manage prescription drug benefits on behalf of health insurance companies, self-insured employers, and government programs. Currently, three PBMs control nearly 80 percent of the prescription drug market and operate with little oversight by federal regulators and out of the view of consumers. PBMs influence prescription drug costs, determine which drugs are covered by an insurance plan, and pocket unknown sums of money that might otherwise be passed along as savings to consumers. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for the public and regulators to fully understand how the market drives up costs for consumers.\n\n\u201cThe need to act is more severe now than ever before. In 2023 there were over 300 independent pharmacy net closures \u2014 almost one per day. Unfortunately, that trend has only grown in 2024. Pharmacies across the country have been forced to close their doors because PBMs have continued to reimburse them significantly less than it costs the pharmacy to even purchase the drug. This is unsustainable, especially for small family businesses. The impacts of these closures only hurt already-struggling communities by decreasing the number of quality health care providers and likely increasing costs for seniors,\u201d Heinrich wrote in a letter with his Senate colleagues.\n\nHeinrich is a leader on PBM reform in the Senate, cosponsoring bipartisan legislation known as the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency Act, which bans deceptive unfair pricing schemes, prohibits arbitrary clawbacks of payments made to pharmacies, and requires PBMs to report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) how much money they make through spread pricing and pharmacy fees.\n\nIn March, Heinrich and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) urged Senate leadership to take immediate action to reform PBMs in an effort to reduce the cost of prescription drugs.\n\nThe letter was led by U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.). Alongside Heinrich, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Angus King (I-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.).\n\nThe text of the letter is here and below:\n\nDear Majority Leader Schumer and Minority Leader McConnell,\n\nWe write to encourage you to include critically-needed Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) reforms in any legislative vehicle that may be brought up for a vote at the end of the 118th Congress.\n\nA number of committees in both the Senate and the House have passed meaningful legislation that would rein in certain PBM practices that harm patients and local pharmacies. In the Senate, the Senate Finance Committee nearly unanimously passed the Modernizing and Ensuring PBM Accountability Act and the Better Mental Health Care, Lower-Cost Drugs, and Extenders Act, the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee passed the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Reform Act, the Commerce Committee passed the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency Act, and the Judiciary Committee passed the Prescription Pricing for the People Act. These proposed policies would increase transparency, realign incentives for PBMs and patients, ensure pharmacies are adequately reimbursed, and ensure that patients benefit from decreased drug costs.\n\nTo not advance these important policies before the end of this Congress would be a waste of substantial progress made and would deny patients and pharmacists across the country the relief they deserve.\n\nIn December of last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) wrote to PBMs and plans: \u2018We are hearing an increasing number of concerns about certain practices by some plans and [PBMs] that threaten the sustainability of many pharmacies, impede access to care, and put increased burden on health care providers.\u2019 More recently, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) released an interim report which noted that \u2018PBMs can often exercise significant control over which drugs are available, at what price, and which pharmacies patients can use to access their prescribed medications,\u2019 and filed a complaint alleging that \u2018PBMs have abused their economic power by rigging pharmaceutical supply chain competition in their favor, forcing patients to pay more for life-saving medication.\u2019\n\nThe need to act is more severe now than ever before. In 2023 there were over 300 independent pharmacy net closures\u2014almost one per day. Unfortunately, that trend has only grown in 2024. Pharmacies across the country have been forced to close their doors because PBMs have continued to reimburse them significantly less than it costs the pharmacy to even purchase the drug. This is unsustainable, especially for small family businesses. The impacts of these closures only hurt already-struggling communities by decreasing the number of quality health care providers and likely increasing costs for seniors.\n\nShould any long-term policy priorities be attached to an end-of- year spending package, PBM reforms should be included in order to end the 118th Congress with success that will help protect pharmacies and decrease costs for patients across the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-zuni-pueblo-call-speaker-mike-johnson-pass-new-mexico-water", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez, Zuni Pueblo Call on Speaker Mike Johnson to Pass New Mexico Water Rights Settlements", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) and Zuni Pueblo called on Speaker Mike Johnson to pass the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act and all water rights settlements to benefit New Mexico\u2019s Tribes and Pueblos. These settlements provide essential resources to support water infrastructure across New Mexico and ensure that both Tribal and private water users have access to water.\n\n\u201cI am calling on Speaker Johnson to pass New Mexico\u2019s water rights settlements before the end of the year,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cThe settlements for Zuni, Acoma, Laguna and our other Pueblos are a critical step toward honoring our commitments to Indian Country and ensuring all New Mexicans have access to safe water. My bill to ratify the Zuni settlement helps resolve long-standing water rights issues and provides Zuni Tribe with the resources necessary for vital water infrastructure projects for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act will help us restore the Zuni River - which used to perennially flow through our village - and its tributaries, provide a safe and sustainable water supply for our future and the needed infrastructure to deliver that water, and will make permanent protections for the sacred Zuni Salt Lake,\u201d said Governor Kucate. \u201cWe greatly appreciate Congressman Vasquez for his commitment to Zuni and work to introduce this vitally important legislation.\u201d\n\nThe bicameral Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act authorizes $685 million in federal funding to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government\u2019s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the Federal Government, State of New Mexico and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage and other uses.\n\nOn December 3, U.S. Representatives Vasquez, Stansbury and Leger-Fernandez sent a letter to Speaker Johnson urging passage of all of the Indian water rights settlements for New Mexico.\n\nVasquez is also fighting for passage of the Rio San Jos\u00e9 and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, which would secure water rights and infrastructure funding for the Pueblo of Acoma and Pueblo of Laguna.\n\nThis summer, Vasquez introduced the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act. U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) introduced the bill in the Senate, and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) and Teresa Leger-Fernandez (D-N.M.) co-sponsored the legislation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-welcomes-19-million-usda-rural-development-award-for-southwest-border-regional-commission", "Heinrich Welcomes $1.9 Million USDA Rural Development Award for Southwest Border Regional Commission", "2024-12-13", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, welcomed a newly announced $1.9 million funding award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development for the Southwest Border Regional Commission (SBRC) as part of a new round of investments totaling more than $194 million to support local economic development plans and projects in Rural Partners Network (RPN) communities across the country.\n\n\u201cFor years, I have worked to secure investments that support economic development and modernize infrastructure across New Mexico. As part of that work, I have pushed to make sure Congress fully funds the Southwest Border Regional Commission so it can boost economic progress in our southern border communities,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m proud to welcome this $1.9 million investment into the Commission to grow local businesses and support workforce development. By continuing to expand the Commission\u2019s reach, we are strategically working to grow and diversify local economies.\u201d\n\nThis investment will be used to enhance the Southwest Border Regional Commission's work to catalyze regional, collaborative, and transformative community economic development approaches that alleviate economic distress. Funding will target rural businesses, supporting business growth and innovation, workforce development, and technical assistance. The project will be accomplished through collaboration between stakeholders working across the awardee's service area, including targeted regions of New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas.\n\nBackground on the Southwest Border Regional Commission:\n\nThe Southwest Border Regional Commission (SBRC) is one of six active federal regional commissions and authorities, which are congressionally chartered, federal-state partnerships created to promote economic development in their respective regions. Congress first authorized the establishment of the SBRC in 2008 to promote economic development in the southern border regions of New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas.\n\nFor years, Heinrich has fought to successfully stand up the SBRC and give southern border communities equitable access to federal investments that help them thrive. Heinrich wrote an op-ed in the Las Cruces Bulletin in January about his long-running work to expand the SBRC\u2019s operations and impact in New Mexico.\n\nIn 2020, Heinrich, along with former U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.), helped secure an initial $250,000 of appropriations for the SBRC to jumpstart its operations.\n\nIn 2021, Heinrich, as a new member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, helped secure $1 million for the SBRC in the FY22 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The total funding that Heinrich secured in the overall FY22 Appropriations Bills for SBRC was $2.5 million. Heinrich also helped to pass the Infrastructure Law, which included $1.25 million for the SBRC.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich applauded President Biden\u2019s nomination of Juan Eduardo Sanchez to be the first Federal Co-Chairman of the SBRC and voted to confirm Sanchez to the SBRC later that year. He also helped secure $5 million in funding for the SBRC in the FY23 Appropriations Bills.\n\nIn 2023, Heinrich led efforts to secure $8 million in FY24 funding for the SBRC, including $3 million in the FY24 Agricultural Appropriations Bill that he authored as Chairman.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich successfully included $14 million for the SBRC in the Senate Appropriations Committee-passed FY25 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill. This comes in addition to the $2 million that Heinrich successfully included in the Committee-passed FY25 Agriculture Appropriations Bill and the $5 million Heinrich successfully included in the Committee-passed FY25 Transportation Appropriations Bill.\n\nLast year, Heinrich led the introduction of the Southwest Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act, legislation to reauthorize and fully fund the Southwest Border Regional Commission (SBRC). The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), and Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.).\n\nIn September, Heinrich announced that he successfully included provisions in the \u201cmanager\u2019s package\u201d to the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act that are based on his Southwest Border Regional Commission Reauthorization Act that would:\n\nExpand SBRC\u2019s jurisdiction to include the following counties in New Mexico: Bernalillo, Cibola, Curry, De Baca, Guadalupe, Roosevelt, Torrance, Lea, and Valencia. These are in addition to Catron, Grant, Hidalgo, Luna, Sierra, Socorro, Lincoln, Otero, Eddy, Do\u00f1a Ana, and Chaves Counties in New Mexico, which are already included within the SBRC\u2019s jurisdiction.\n\nGreatly increase federal grants to New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas, authorizing $40 million in annual funding for FY25-FY29.\n\nAccording to a recent report published by Heinrich, as Chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, the proven success of other regional commissions shows that a fully funded and active SBRC would support vital economic development goals, grow and diversify New Mexico\u2019s economy, and create high-quality jobs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/delegate-gregorio-kilili-camacho-sablan-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member", "Delegate Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Delegate Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (D) of the Northern Mariana Islands for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"As we look toward the beginning of the 119th Congress and a second Trump Presidency, clearly we need strong leadership on the House Committee for Natural Resources. Today, I am endorsing my friend and colleague, Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) to be the next Ranking Member of this crucial Committee. As one of the most senior members on the Committee, I have seen her work in productive, bipartisan ways that ensure communities across the country receive the support they deserve. Rep. Stansbury sees the whole picture of the fight to protect the lands, waters, and natural resources that make up our beautiful planet. She is a voice for the next generation of leaders, and I know she will lead the Natural Resources Committee with integrity and purpose.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-leger-fernandez-welcome-acquisition-of-dawson-elk-valley-ranch-in-northeast-nm", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez Welcome Acquisition of Dawson Elk Valley Ranch in Northeast N.M.", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Acquisition made possible with funds from the Inflation Reduction Act New Mexico Democrats passed into law\n\nWASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) are welcoming this week's announcement that the U.S. Forest Service Forest Legacy Program \u2014 with $50 million of federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act and an additional $16.7 million from The Nature Conservancy \u2014 is purchasing the Dawson Elk Valley Ranch in northeastern New Mexico near Cimarron to support the proposed Vermejo River Watershed Conservation Project.\n\nThe lawmakers sent a letter of support to the Forest Service earlier this year urging the completion of this historic acquisition.\n\n\u201cThe acquisition of this property by The Nature Conservancy means this crown jewel of New Mexico will be managed for conservation and can't be sold off to the highest bidding developer,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI look forward to working closely with the New Mexico State Forestry Department, The Nature Conservancy, and Tribes in New Mexico as they work to finalize their stewardship, management, and public access plans for this stunning landscape that\u2019s home to important history, massive herds of mule deer, elk, and pronghorn, migratory birds including bald eagles, and crystal clear trout streams. This is an exciting day for New Mexicans who have not been able to access these lands and waters for generations.\u201d\n\n\"I am proud to announce that the U.S. Forest Service has acquired the Dawson Elk Valley Ranch in northeastern New Mexico for $66.7 million to support the Vermejo River Watershed Conservation Project. This crucial investment will help safeguard wildlife, secure drinking water resources, and support local economies through ranching and game management,\" said Luj\u00e1n. \"It will also establish New Mexico\u2019s first Indigenous-led land trust, creating new opportunities for equitable funding while ensuring the long-term preservation of biodiversity and forest ecosystems for future generations.\"\n\n\"The creation of New Mexico\u2019s first Indigenous-led land trust is a powerful recognition of Tribal stewardship and a commitment to equitable collaboration in conserving our natural treasures,\" said Leger Fernandez. \u201cThis acquisition not only protects the Vermejo River Watershed and safeguards drinking water for eastern New Mexico but also supports vibrant local economies through ranching, hunting, and sustainable land management. Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act knowing it could make visionary projects like this one possible to make sure that our forests, wildlife, and cultural heritage endure for generations to come.\"\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provided a historic investment of $700 million over ten years to permanently conserve state and privately-owned forestlands through the Forest Legacy Program. The Forest Service made a portion of those funds available for \u201cTribal Partnership Projects.\u201d The goal of this funding category is to support meaningful partnerships between States and Tribes to identify, acquire, and co-manage properties with significant Tribal cultural benefits as well as other public benefits.\n\nAs part of the proposed Vermejo River Watershed Conservation Project, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and the State of New Mexico\u2019s Environment, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) plan to use the $50 million of federal funding from the IRA to acquire 32,580 acres which will be co-managed by State Forestry (a division of EMNRD) and Tribally-led land trust. The remaining 17,469 acres will be purchased by The Nature Conservancy with a conservation easement.\n\nThe historic Dawson Elk Valley Ranch includes 32,580 acres of pristine timberland, including 7.2 miles of the Vermejo River and will conserve a diverse ecological system and the wildlife that live there. Protecting this system will safeguard a crucial drinking water resource for people across the eastern half of New Mexico. The land also houses the remnants of the historic mining community of Dawson, N.M., including a cemetery listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Continued management of this land will support local businesses through ongoing ranch management activities and through the active management of game populations, the hunting of which contributes more than $600 million in annual economic spending across New Mexico.\n\nThis investment of Forest Legacy Funds will directly enable a variety of additional benefits, including the conservation of an additional 17,469 adjacent acres and the creation of New Mexico\u2019s first ever Indigenous-led land trust, which will increase equitable access to funding through the Natural Resource Conservation Service.\n\nMore information from the U.S. Forest Service on this week\u2019s announcement can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-mullin-legislation-to-promote-tribal-buffalo-management-passes-senate", "Heinrich, Mullin Legislation to Promote Tribal Buffalo Management Passes Senate", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) applauded the Senate passage of their bipartisan Indian Buffalo Management Act, legislation to create a buffalo program at the U.S. Department of the Interior and help promote and develop Tribal capacity to manage buffalo.\n\nThe Indian Buffalo Management Act provides secure, consistent funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations that have an established buffalo herd and management program, and provides resources for Tribes that would like to establish new herds. The legislation now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\n\"Bison are a critical part of our culture, and have been for generations, in New Mexico, across the West, and especially in Indian Country,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m proud to have led this legislation to strengthen our federal support for Tribal bison programs and grow this vital economic opportunity for communities deeply connected to bison. I call on the U.S. House of Representatives to quickly take up and pass this legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am proud to co-lead this important legislation that will help Tribes reestablish buffalo herds on reservation lands,\u201d said Mullin. \u201cDoing so ensures that Native peoples across the country will continue reconnecting with a keystone of their historic culture and way of life.\u201d\n\nThe Indian Buffalo Management creates a buffalo restoration and management program within the Department of Interior to:\n\nPromote and develop the capacity of Tribes and tribal organizations to manage buffalo and buffalo habitat.\n\nProtect and enhance buffalo herds for the maximum benefit of Tribes.\n\nEnsure that Tribes are directly involved in the Interior Department decision-making regarding buffalo.\n\nThe bill has been endorsed by the InterTribal Buffalo Council, the National Bison Association, The Nature Conservancy, and the National Wildlife Federation.\n\nA fact sheet is here.\n\nIn September, the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs advanced the Indian Buffalo Management Act, following a key hearing before the committee where Heinrich testified in support of the legislation.\n\nAdditional Background:\n\nThe American Plains Bison, also known as the American Buffalo, is deeply connected to many Tribes, and has always held great meaning for Indian peoples. Prior to the systematic destruction of the buffalo in 1800s, there were over 60 million bison roaming freely throughout much of the United States. They provided the Tribes with everything from clothing, to food, to shelter, to utensils, to pouches, to headdresses, to containers, to arrows and much more. It is impossible to overstate their importance to Indian people historically and to this day, culturally.\n\nThe Department of Interior has provided nominal funds for buffalo management for over 20 years but in a rather piecemeal and arbitrary fashion, depending on Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) leadership any given year. This legislation affirms that commitment and authorizes a buffalo management program that will provide secure, consistent funding for Tribes and Tribal organizations that already have established buffalo herds and management programs and provides the opportunity to expand the program to other interested Tribes.\n\nThere are now 83 Tribes in 24 states who are members of the InterTribal Buffalo Council. There were 19 tribal members in 1991.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/jec-mass-deportations-would-have-catastrophic-impact-on-economy", "JEC: Mass Deportations Would Have Catastrophic Impact on Economy", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2014 The Joint Economic Committee (JEC) Democrats released a new report today detailing how Trump\u2019s mass deportation plans would cause catastrophic harm to the economy.\n\nDepending on how many immigrants are deported, these mass deportations would:\n\nReduce real gross domestic product (GDP) by as much as 7.4% by 2028,\n\nCause labor shortages in key industries, removing 225,000 workers in agriculture and 1.5 million workers in construction,\n\nPush prices up to 9.1% higher by 2028, and\n\nCost 44,000 U.S.-born workers their jobs for every half a million immigrants who are removed from the labor force.\n\n\u201cAs a son of an immigrant, I know how hard immigrants work, how much they believe in this country, and how much they\u2019re willing to give back. They are the backbone of our economy and the driving force behind our nation\u2019s growth and prosperity,\u201d said Chairman Martin Heinrich (D-NM). \u201cTrump\u2019s plan to deport millions of immigrants does absolutely nothing to address the core problems driving our broken immigration system. Instead, all it will do is raise grocery prices, destroy jobs, and shrink the economy. His immigration policy is reckless and would cause irreparable harm to our economy.\u201d\n\nRead the full report here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-welcomes-biden-administration-announcement-on-temporary-protection-from-mining-threats-for-upper-pecos-watershed", "N.M. Delegation Welcomes Biden Administration Announcement on Temporary Protection from Mining Threats for Upper Pecos Watershed", "2024-12-12", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming today\u2019s announcement that the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service have initiated a two-year segregation period to temporarily withdraw approximately 165,000 acres of public lands in the Upper Pecos watershed in northern New Mexico, from new mining claims and the issuance of new federal mineral leases, subject to valid existing rights. This temporary protection gives the public land agencies time to consider longer-term protections without new mining claims being staked during the process.\n\n\u201cThis temporary protection is a major victory for the Pecos Valley and the farmers, Tribal members, hunters, anglers and outdoor recreationists who are united by the expansive watersheds that feed into it,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cThe Upper Pecos Watershed has an unfortunate history of poorly managed mining and development projects that have put New Mexicans and our ways of life and cultures at risk. While we continue pressing our colleagues in Congress to pass our Pecos Watershed Protection Act to ensure permanent protection from harmful mining operations, we urge the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service to move forward with longer-term administrative protections. I urge them to schedule the required public meeting on this administrative protection proposal immediately.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud that the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management heeded my call and will now take important steps to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from mining threats,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cThis two-year protection will safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos. I commend Secretary Haaland for her leadership on this issue, and I remain committed to passing the Pecos Watershed Protection Act to protect the parts Pecos Watershed from all mineral development and ensure future generations can continue to benefit from this critical watershed.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs the Pecos River flows from high mountain snowmelt, it provides the water needed for life, for the recreational and cultural traditions of the surrounding valley and the communities it traverses for miles. In New Mexico, we know that agua es vida \u2014 water is life \u2014 and we must protect the Pecos from any new mining toxic waste spills. Secretary Haaland\u2019s initiation of an administrative protection for the Upper Pecos Watershed is a vital step to make sure surrounding communities can rely on the Pecos River. I will also continue to work to pass my Pecos Watershed Protection Act to permanently safeguard the Pecos and make sure dangerous mining accidents do not happen again,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez.\n\n\u201cPresident Biden and Secretary Haaland\u2019s announcement of temporary protection against mining threats is a significant step forward in safeguarding our precious water resources and protecting the unique ecosystems of the Upper Pecos Watershed,\u201d said Stansbury. \u201cIt is a triumph for our communities who rely on clean water and healthy ecosystems. We must continue to prioritize the health of our environment so New Mexicans can not only benefit from these vital natural resources but enjoy them. Together, we will ensure New Mexicans inherit a vibrant and resilient landscape.\u201d\n\n\"Today\u2019s action by Secretary Haaland is crucial to protect the Upper Pecos watershed,\" said Vasquez. \"This land is vital for wildlife, water and Indigenous communities, and I will continue fighting for its permanent protection in Congress. We must ensure these lands are preserved for future generations.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe Pecos River is not only an essential source of water for communities throughout New Mexico but also supplies water to traditional acequias and helps support agriculture that sustains families and livelihoods in New Mexico. In 2023, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez introduced the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, legislation to protect portions of the Pecos Watershed in northern New Mexico from new mineral claims. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus endorsed this legislation in October 2024.\n\nEarlier this month, the Delegation sent a letter to the U.S. Forest Service strongly urging the completion of this initial step of the mineral withdrawal process in the Upper Pecos Watershed. Completing this initial step safeguards the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos from the dangers of future mining claims for two years.\n\nThe Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service will now initiate a process to propose that the Secretary of the Interior implement a 20-year withdrawal to help secure the region\u2019s water and air quality, cultural resources, critical fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. The withdrawal, for lands in San Miguel and Santa Fe counties, would encompass multiple Pecos River tributaries, including Dalton Canyon, Macho Canyon, Wild Horse Creek, Indian Creek, and Doctor Creek.\n\nThe BLM will publish this announcement in the Federal Register in the coming days, initiating a 90-day public comment period to gather input on the proposal. During the comment period, the two agencies will host at least one hybrid public meeting. The New Mexico Delegation is urging the agencies to announce the date of this public meeting as soon as possible.\n\n###\n\nFollow U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich on X, Instagram, and Facebook:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/senator-lujan-statement-rep-stansbury-and-house-committee-natural-resources", "Senator Luj\u00e1n Statement on Rep. Stansbury and House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) welcomed the following statement from Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-New Mexico):\n\n\u201cSince being elected to Congress, Melanie Stansbury has been an effective fighter for our constituents and a valued member of the Democratic Caucus. As a former state legislator and staffer for the White House Office of Management and Budget and the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, she has spent her career working to combat the climate crisis, protect the environment, and uphold Tribal sovereignty. She brings an important voice and perspective to the House Natural Resources Committee.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-pass-national-defense-bill-secures-major-wins-new", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Pass National Defense Bill, Secures Major Wins for New Mexico and Service Members Nationwide", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted in favor of the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Vasquez was instrumental in ensuring that the NDAA supports service members, enhances national security and prioritizes the needs of rural communities, including those in New Mexico.\n\n\u201cAs a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I worked across the aisle to pass the NDAA to strengthen our national security and address the critical needs of our service members and their families,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cThe provisions I secured will directly benefit New Mexico and our service members, including a historic pay raise, job protections for our rural service members and expanded access to reproductive care.\u201d\n\nVasquez\u2019s Rural Installation Job Protection Act was passed in the final NDAA. His legislation requires the Department of Defense (DoD) to notify Congress before canceling contracts that impact 50 or more jobs at rural military installations, protecting jobs at bases like White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and ensuring that rural communities that rely on military installations are not left behind.\n\nVasquez also secured substantial pay raises for service members. The final bill includes a 14.5% pay increase for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for all other service members, providing critical financial support for those who serve in the Armed Forces.\n\nVasquez played a leading role in protecting LGBTQ+ rights, diversity efforts and access to reproductive health care. He ensured that harmful Republican-led provisions\u2014such as those targeting LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive health care\u2014were stripped from the bill. These provisions, which would have restricted access to gender-affirming care and reproductive services for service members, were removed due to a concerted effort led by Vasquez and his Democratic colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee.\n\n\u201cBy protecting access to critical health care and LGBTQ+ service members, we have made clear that the Department of Defense must protect the rights and dignity of every service member,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cWhile we have secured wins for New Mexico, there\u2019s more work to be done; Congress must also ensure their dependents have access to affordable, quality health care.\u201d\n\nThe NDAA also authorizes over $2.23 billion in defense-related funding for New Mexico. These investments will strengthen the state's role in national defense, create jobs, and contribute to the continued success of New Mexico\u2019s defense industry. The bill further includes $177 million in military construction to replace outdated housing and barracks, ensuring that military personnel have the quality living conditions they deserve. The full list is available HERE.\n\nVasquez\u2019s continued advocacy for New Mexico\u2019s military installations and service members has made a significant impact. This NDAA reflects his unwavering commitment to both national security and the well-being of military families, particularly in rural areas across New Mexico.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/jec-mexico-canada-and-china-will-not-pay-for-tariffs-americans-will", "JEC: \"Mexico, Canada, and China will not pay for tariffs. Americans will.\u201d", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2014 Today, Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), released the following statement after the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that prices measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.3% in November. Data also show that annual prices grew 2.7.% over the last year.\n\n\u201cPresident-Elect Trump\u2019s inflationary policies will erase all of the hard work we\u2019ve put in to get inflation under control. Don\u2019t be fooled. Mexico, Canada, and China will not pay for tariffs. Americans will.\u201d\n\n\u201cImposing new tariffs will hike up prices on food, appliances, and everyday goods. And border states like New Mexico will feel the brunt of it. His policies are bad for the state, our economy, and for Americans across the country.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/mass-deportations-would-deliver-a-catastrophic-blow-to-the-us-economy", "Mass Deportations Would Deliver a Catastrophic Blow to the U.S. Economy", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Though the U.S. immigration system remains broken, immigrants are crucial to growing the labor force and supporting economic output. Immigrants have helped expand the labor supply, pay nearly $580 billion a year in taxes, possess a spending power of $1.6 trillion a year, and just last year contributed close to $50 billion each in personal income and consumer spending. Congress must reform and modernize the immigration system while also cementing the immense economic benefits associated with immigration. Time and time again, Democrats have attempted to do so through comprehensive immigration reform but have been blocked by Republicans who continue to use the issue to sow division.\n\nThe incoming Trump administration plans to conduct mass deportations that would upend entire communities and have severe economic fallout. Mass deportations would reduce economic growth, shrink the labor force, cost U.S.-born workers their jobs, raise costs for nearly all Americans, and risk igniting inflation.\n\nDepending on how many immigrants are deported, these mass deportations would:\n\nReduce real gross domestic product (GDP) by as much as 7.4% by 2028,\n\nReduce the supply of workers for key industries, including by up to 225,000 workers in agriculture and 1.5 million workers in construction,\n\nPush prices up to 9.1% higher by 2028, and\n\nCost 44,000 U.S.-born workers their jobs for every half a million immigrants who are removed from the labor force.\n\nMass deportation would damage the U.S. economy and hurt U.S.-born workers as well as immigrants\n\nOn top of the billions of dollars it would cost to undertake the sweeping deportation efforts that President Trump has called for across the country, multiple analyses show that any mass deportation plan would cause massive declines in GDP and overall employment.\n\nEstimates from the Peterson Institute for International Economics show that if 8.3 million undocumented immigrants are deported, GDP would be 7.4% lower and employment would be 7.0% lower by 2028. This 7.4% reduction in GDP over four years would likely mean that the U.S. economy would not grow at all during President Trump\u2019s second term. Even if 1.3 million undocumented immigrants are deported, GDP would drop by 1.2% and employment would drop by 1.1% by 2028.\n\nThe American Immigration Council has estimated that a long-term deportation\u2014deporting one million people each year until there is no undocumented population\u2014could amount to a 4.2% to 6.8% loss in GDP (totaling $1.1 to $1.7 trillion in losses), with the effects felt most acutely in California, Florida, and Texas. To put this in context, the economy shrank by 4.3% during the Great Recession.\n\nThe researchers also find that this deportation plan would cut $23 billion in funds for Social Security and $6 billion from Medicare each year because these workers would no longer pay into these programs.\n\nA 2016 study estimates that mass deportations would reduce GDP by nearly $280 billion in the first year, with the cost growing to roughly $5 trillion after 10 years as businesses shrink their hiring and production in response to the scale of deportations.\n\nThe effects of mass deportations could be greater if additional documented immigrants or U.S. citizen family members also leave the country. People in mixed-status families who are either U.S.-born children or green card holders may be caught up in deportation sweeps or leave themselves if undocumented members of their family are deported.\n\nEvidence also shows that deportations reduce employment for U.S.-born workers. Deportation initiatives from past administrations actually led to net reductions in employment and earnings in the short- and long-term for U.S.-born workers, with the worst impacts falling on the least educated and most vulnerable. An analysis of past deportation operations estimates that for every half a million immigrants removed from the labor force due to enforcement, 44,000 U.S.-born workers lose their jobs. Employers would not simply hire U.S. born workers to fill the vacancies created by undocumented workers who are deported, as there would be too many vacancies, U.S.-born workers would be unlikely to move into these industries, and employer hiring behavior can be variable. Employers may, for example, choose to invest in production processes that require less labor instead.\n\nMass deportations would cause labor shortages in vital industries like agriculture, housing, and health care\u2014raising costs for all Americans\n\nUndocumented immigrants make up a relatively small share of the overall labor force\u2014between 4.4% and 5.4% since 2003\u2014but they have outsized roles in industries like construction, agriculture, health care, and hospitality. They grow, pick, and process Americans\u2019 food; build homes in communities across the country; and provide in-home care to seniors and others. Without immigrant labor, these industries would face labor shortages, further exacerbating their need for labor. In addition, the United States would lose workers that were educated here. Over 15% of undocumented workers have a bachelor\u2019s degree or higher, and nearly half a million are currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities.\n\nMany industries already face labor shortages or are projected to face a shortage of workers in the coming decades. There were 282,000 job openings in construction in September 2024, and one study estimated the construction industry will need an additional 454,000 workers above the normal pace of hiring to meet the demand for labor in 2025. Mass deportations would only\n\nexacerbate this shortage as up to a quarter of construction workers are undocumented. This loss in workers would make housing even harder to build, raising its cost. Mass deportations would also reduce the supply of farmworkers who keep Americans fed as well as the supply of home health aides at a time when more Americans are aging and requiring assistance. The American Immigration Council estimates that mass deportations would remove up to 1.5 million workers from the construction industry, 225,000 from agriculture, one million from hospitality, 870,000 from manufacturing, and 461,000 from transportation and warehousing.\n\nThe labor shortages that result from mass deportations would raise costs for all Americans. With unemployment near a historic low, employers in sectors like agriculture and construction would produce less, resulting in shortages and higher prices. Economists at the Peterson Institute for International Economics estimate that deporting 1.3 million immigrants would raise prices by 1.5% by 2028, while deporting 8.3 million immigrants would raise prices by 9.1%. Additionally, mass deportations would reduce consumer spending, as undocumented workers are not just workers but also consumers. If demand for certain goods and services slows enough, demand for workers in those sectors may also slow, and some businesses may be forced to lay off workers.\n\nImmigration is essential for a strong labor force and U.S. economy\n\nThe massive costs associated with these deportation plans underscore just how vital immigrants are to the U.S. economy. Non-partisan analysis of recent immigration trends by the Hamilton Project shows that in 2023 immigrants contributed $48 billion to overall personal income and $46 billion to consumer spending. An analysis by former Council of Economic Advisers chief economist Ernie Tedeschi suggests that immigration is responsible for at least a fifth of the 8.2% growth in real GDP since the end of 2019. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that the recent increase in immigration could add $8.9 trillion to GDP over the next decade while reducing the deficit by $900 billion.\n\nImportantly, both immigrant and U.S.-born workers between the ages of 25 and 64 are employed at higher rates now than they were before the pandemic (see graph below), signaling that the strong labor market in recent years has benefitted both immigrants and U.S.-born workers alike. Evidence from the last few decades shows that immigrants do not take jobs from U.S.-born workers or bring down wages for similarly-skilled workers. This is especially true when there are lots of job openings, like there were during the post-pandemic recovery. A recent analysis from the Brookings Institution estimates that U.S.-born and immigrant employment actually increased more than expected in 2023, despite previous data pointing to a decrease in U.S.-born employment. A recent study even showed that immigrants can actually boost wages and employment for U.S.-born workers.\n\nImmigrants have a high propensity for entrepreneurship that boosts overall job growth\n\nWhile immigrants make up about 14% of the U.S. population, they represent about a fifth of the self-employed workforce and account for a quarter of start-up founders. Many immigrants find success in their entrepreneurial pursuits: 55% of the companies valued at or above $1 billion in the United States were founded by immigrants and more than 40% of the Fortune 500 companies in 2021 were founded by an immigrant or the child of an immigrant.\n\nImmigrants are also more likely to work jobs that have a job-multiplier effect, meaning that their employment facilitates the entry of other workers into the labor force. For example, workers in sectors like education and health services, where immigrants make up about 1 in 5 workers, help parents and caregivers of all backgrounds enter the labor force and grow the economy. This is particularly true for women, who perform a disproportionate share of unpaid care work.\n\nImmigrants pay their fair share in taxes and can help secure the future of key government programs\n\nImmigrants tend to be younger, and with their high employment rates, they pay taxes into Social Security and Medicare with most not receiving benefits until many years in the future, if they are eligible at all. One study found that each foreign-born person pays on average $1,300 more each year and $237,000 more over their lifetime in taxes than they receive in benefits from federal, state, and local governments. Another showed that between 2012 and 2018, immigrants contributed $166 more per capita, on average, to the Medicare Trust Fund each year than what was spent on their behalf. Conversely, Medicare spent more on U.S.-born Americans than they contributed with an average cost of $51 per capita. Immigration can help preserve Social Security, while reforms to immigration policy could help extend Medicare solvency.\n\nImmigrants contribute to many social programs with their taxes, despite many being ineligible to receive most government benefits. In 2022, immigrants had a spending power of $1.6 trillion, and they collectively paid $579 billion in local, state, and federal taxes.\n\nLegal avenues for immigration and pathways to citizenship benefit workers and the U.S. economy\n\nProviding a pathway to citizenship is good economics. Immigrants are helping meet labor demand while also demonstrating that more legal pathways to working in the United States are needed to meet this demand. Additionally, research shows that expanding legal immigration pathways can reduce irregular border crossings, leading to more secure and regulated borders. This approach is vital for managing increased migration to the United States, especially as more people flee their home countries due to the continued risk of violence, persecution, economic conditions, natural disasters, and climate change.\n\nPresident Trump\u2019s mass deportation proposals would strip the United States of the many contributions of immigrants to the U.S. economy and communities across the country. Deporting immigrants will not only upend their lives, but also harm the U.S. economy through reduced economic growth, a smaller labor force, lost jobs, and higher costs to the detriment of all Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-welcomes-34-million-to-solve-crime-keep-communities-safe-and-support-survivor-services", "N.M. Delegation Welcomes $3.4 Million to Solve Crime, Keep Communities Safe & Support Survivor Services", "2024-12-11", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming $3,392,905 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to help New Mexico\u2019s law enforcement solve crimes, support survivor services, improve violence prevention, and keep communities safe.\n\nThe grants all come from the Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program and will be distributed from the DOJ\u2019s Office of Justice Programs (OJP).\n\n\u201cTo tackle crime and make our communities safer, we need to better equip our law enforcement officers and prosecutors as they work to solve and prevent crimes, while also supporting survivors of violent crime as they grapple with the very real impacts of what they\u2019ve experienced,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m proud to welcome these federal resources that will both support survivors of violent crime and hold dangerous criminals accountable.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith this $3.4 million in federal funding, New Mexico\u2019s law enforcement agencies will be equipped with the resources needed to keep our communities safe and support victims of crimes,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n.\u201cAcross our state, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe, and I\u2019m proud to welcome this funding to help them do their jobs. I will continue to fight for federal resources to keep New Mexico communities safe.\u201d\n\n\"Across my district, from Clovis, to Hobbs to Farmington, we are delivering $3.4 million in funds to help our law enforcement professionals solve crimes faster, protect themselves as they confront violent criminal encounters, and keep people safe during high-speed chases,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s vital that our communities feel safe and protected,\u201d said Stansbury. \u201cThis $3.4 million will help provide law enforcement with the tools to address crime, protect victims, and keep New Mexico safe. Our law enforcement and first responders put their lives on the line to protect New Mexicans, and I\u2019m grateful for this funding.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis $3.4 million investment is a critical step towards strengthening public safety in our communities,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cBy supporting crime prevention efforts and providing vital resources for survivors, we\u2019re ensuring that justice is within reach. Our law enforcement officers and community organizations work tirelessly to ensure our safety, and I\u2019m committed to fighting for the federal support they need.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-calls-on-haaland-to-designate-caja-del-rio-national-monument", "Heinrich Calls on Haaland to Designate Caja del Rio National Monument", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, is calling on U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to listen to the broad coalition of New Mexicans who are calling to protect the invaluable cultural and natural resources in the Caja del Rio by designating a new national monument before President Joe Biden\u2019s term ends in January.\n\n\u201cTribes, traditional communities, the County of Santa Fe, sportsmen, hikers, birders, and countless New Mexicans all want to see the Caja protected as a national monument,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI join them in calling on Secretary Haaland to make sure this landscape is protected and restored for generations of New Mexicans to come.\u201d\n\nThe All Pueblo Council of Governors, Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber, and the Santa Fe County Commission have passed resolutions and signed letters of support calling on Secretary Haaland and President Joe Biden to use their authorities under the Antiquities Act to designate a new national monument protecting the Caja del Rio.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-legislation-to-clean-up-abandoned-mines-passes-us-house-of-representatives-heads-to-presidents-desk-to-be-signed-into-law", "Heinrich Legislation to Clean Up Abandoned Mines Passes U.S. House of Representatives, Heads to President\u2019s Desk to be Signed into Law", "2024-12-10", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Bipartisan Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act clears final hurdle in Congress\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) applauded the passage of his Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. Co-led with U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), this legislation will make it easier for \u201cGood Samaritans,\u201d such as state agencies, nonprofits, and other groups, to clean up and improve water quality in and around abandoned hardrock mines.\n\nHeinrich and Risch hailed the Senate\u2019s unanimous and bipartisan passage of the bill in July. The House companion legislation is led by U.S. Representatives Celeste Maloy (R-Utah), Mary Peltola (D-Alaska), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.). The bill now heads to President Joe Biden to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cFor more than 25 years, Good Samaritans have tried to clean up abandoned mines but have faced significant hurdles and liability rules that hold them responsible for all the pre-existing pollution from a mine \u2014 despite having no involvement with the mines before their cleanup efforts. With today\u2019s passage, we\u2019ve now cleared one of the final hurdles preventing these groups from helping to protect the land, water, fish, and wildlife our communities rely on. This victory belongs to every single person who rolled up their sleeves to fix this longstanding injustice, and I\u2019d like to thank those who have carried the baton to get us to this point. I am grateful for President Biden\u2019s support of the bill, and his signature will allow Good Samaritans to get to work,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\n\u201cI introduced the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act with Senator Heinrich to remove unnecessary barriers to clean up long-abandoned mine sites in Idaho and across the United States. This work is long overdue. I am pleased to see our bill pass the House of Representatives with resounding bipartisan support and look forward to its swift signing into law,\u201d said Risch.\n\n\"This legislation has been decades in the making,\u201d said Maloy. \u201cI'm grateful for the bipartisan support of my colleagues and the many stakeholders across the country who helped us achieve this milestone. With my bill in place, state agencies, non-profits, mining companies and other volunteers can clean up abandoned mines without being held liable by the EPA or undergoing extensive permitting requirements. Thanks to this bill, Utahns will have the freedom to make their state a safer and cleaner place.\"\n\n\u201cDespite having no legal or financial responsibility to do so, state agencies, non-profits, and advocates are eager to contribute to abandoned hardrock mine cleanup efforts. But, right now, over-burdensome permitting requirements bar them from doing so,\u201d said Peltola. \u201cToo often, government red tape prevents good work from getting done \u2014 that\u2019s why passing our Good Samaritan bill is huge for mine cleanup throughout Alaska!\u201d\n\n\u201cAbandoned hardrock mines in Nevada and across the country are poisoning our waters, threatening tribal lands, and their hazardous landscapes have injured and killed Americans. For 25 years, Good Sam bills \u2014 which would clean up these mines \u2014 have stalled because of Washington politics. Today, Republicans and Democrats made history by finally empowering Good Samaritan organizations that are willing and able to assist this long overdue clean up,\u201d said Lee. \u201cBecause of commonsense bipartisanship, our nation is now on a path to cleaner waters and safer landscapes.\"\n\nBackground\n\nThe U.S. has hundreds of thousands of abandoned hardrock mine features, of which at least 33,000 pose environmental hazards according to the GAO. Organizations that have no legal or financial responsibility to an abandoned mine \u2013 true Good Samaritans \u2013 want to volunteer to remediate some of these sites. Unfortunately, liability rules would leave these Good Samaritans legally responsible for all the pre-existing pollution from a mine, even though they had no involvement with the mine prior to cleaning it up.\n\nThe Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act creates a pilot permitting program to enable not-for-profit cleanup efforts to move forward, while ensuring Good Samaritans have the skills and resources to comply with federal oversight. This pilot program is designed for lower risk projects that will improve water and soil quality or otherwise protect human health.\n\nA one-page summary is here.\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\nHeinrich championed a provision in the Infrastructure Law to establish the first-ever abandoned hardrock mine reclamation program in the Department of the Interior. With the passage of the Good Samaritan legislation, public-private partnerships can use this program to jumpstart abandoned mine cleanups.\n\nIn November, the Biden administration announced its support for the Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Brain Schatz (D-Hawaii), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).\n\nIn the House, the legislation is cosponsored U.S. Representatives John Curtis (R-Utah), Brittany Pettersen (D-Colo.), Burgess Owens (R-Utah), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Mark Amodei (R-Nev.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Blake Moore (R-Utah), Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Rick Crawford (R-Ark.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Garrett Graves (R-La.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Elijah Crane (R-Ariz.), Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D- N.M.), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Troy Nehls (R-Texas), Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio), Vince Fong (R-Calif.), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), Reuben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.), and Glen Thompson (R-Pa.).\n\nThe Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act has garnered widespread support from agencies and organizations:\n\nStates: Western Governor\u2019s Association, Western States Water Council, Interstate Mining Compact Commission, National Association of Abandoned Mind Land Programs, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Attorney General of Colorado, Governor of Nevada.\n\nNational conservation organizations: American Rivers, American Sportfishing Association, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, National Parks Conservation Association, National Wildlife Federation, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Conservation Alliance, Nature Conservancy, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trout Unlimited.\n\nMining industry organizations: National Mining Association, American Exploration and Mining Association.\n\nTribal leaders: National Congress of American Indians.\n\nOutdoor Recreation organizations and businesses: American Fly Fishing Trade Association, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, Outdoor Alliance, and dozens of state and local organizations and businesses.\n\nWildlife and sportsmen\u2019s organizations: American Fly Fishing Trade Association, American Sportfishing Association, Angler Action Foundation, Archery Trade Association, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S), Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Boone and Crockett Club, Campfire Club of America, Congressional Sportsmen\u2019s Foundation, Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports, Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, Fly Fishers International, Houston Safari Club, Izaak Walton League of America, Mule Deer Foundation, National Association of Forest Service Retirees, National Deer Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Wildlife Federation, New York State Conservation Council, North American Grouse Partnership, Orion: The Hunter\u2019s Institute, Pheasants Forever, Pope & Young Club, Property and Environment Research Center, Public Lands Foundation, Quail Forever, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters, The Nature Conservancy, The Wildlife Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.\n\n\u201cThis is a victory for common sense. Senators Heinrich and Risch took a bipartisan approach to a non-partisan issue. Clean water is a basic human right,\u201d said Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. \u201cThis bill will allow organizations such as Trout Unlimited, local communities, and states to pilot new approaches to making our waters cleaner and our communities healthier. Bully for their leadership!\u201d\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s passage of bipartisan and bicameral Good Samaritan legislation out of the House of Representatives was the final step in securing a key solution to tackle the long-overdue cleanup of legacy abandoned mine sites. This bill, which passed the Senate unanimously, has been more than a decade in the making and will encourage the involvement of mining companies, conservation groups and local stakeholders in abandoned mine cleanup without fear of incurring additional legal liability. I look forward to the President signing this bipartisan bill into law allowing for responsible, much-needed land and water remediation efforts,\u201d said Rich Nolan, President and CEO of the National Mining Association.\n\n\u201cAEMA celebrates today\u2019s passage of the bipartisan Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hard Rock Mines Act, the culmination of nearly three decades of work by a broad range of stakeholders. Our members are proud to collaborate with the conservation community, states, and the federal government to address the cleanup of historic, pre-regulation sites. This pilot project program provides an opportunity to demonstrate that the process can work so we can progress to a broader Good Sam bill in the near future. I\u2019d like to congratulate and thank Senators Risch and Heinrich, and Representatives Maloy and Peltola for their leadership, and all the bipartisan cosponsors for getting this important legislation across the finish line,\u201d said Mark Compton, Executive Director of the American Exploration and Mining Association.\n\n\u201cThanks to the tireless advocacy of Senators Heinrich and Risch, Representatives Maloy and Peltola, and a host of Good Samaritans in nonprofits and industry who have worked for decades to get something done, this bipartisan legislation is a big win for our nation\u2019s waterways. Abandoned hardrock mines have left a legacy of waste and damage for rivers and streams across the country. The bill will provide a much-needed pathway for remediation work that will lead to cleaner water, improved public health and economic development that will enrich frontline communities,\u201d said Tom Cors, Senior Director, Legislative Affairs, The Nature Conservancy.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-mexico-wilderness-alliance-supports-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house", "New Mexico Wilderness Alliance Supports Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\"New Mexico Wild wholeheartedly endorses Rep. Stansbury to become the next Ranking Member of the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources. She is the ideal candidate to assume this critical leadership role at this time, combining deep subject matter expertise, unquestionable integrity, and fearlessness. Rep. Stansbury's proven tenacity in defending public lands and waters and holding officials, colleagues, and industry accountable is more important than ever.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-enters-leadership-race-natural-resources-committee", "Rep. Stansbury Enters Leadership Race for Natural Resources Committee", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01)announced on Monday she will make a bid to run for the highest Democratic seat in the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources.\n\nIf successful, Rep. Stansbury would make history as the first woman to serve as either Chair or Ranking Member of the Committee. This would follow on the historic tenure of the current Ranking Member Raul Grijalva (AZ-07) who has led the Committee for the last decade as the first Latino Chair, and who endorsed Rep. Stansbury last week.\n\nRead the full letter here.\n\n\u201cAcross more than two decades working on natural resources issues at OMB, in the U.S. Senate and House, as Vice Chair of the House Committee of jurisdiction in New Mexico, and on the ground\u2014I have worked on issues that affect nearly every community that our Caucus represents,\u201d said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cI will ensure that our work is always rooted in the needs of our communities and the vast, diverse, and beautiful places we call home. My life\u2019s work at the forefront of these land and water issues and climate justice is not just a job\u2014it is part of who I am and why I am here. As we prepare for the 119th Congress, we must meet the moment and be prepared for the attacks that will undoubtedly come, while continuing to work with our colleagues across the aisle to get things done. To do so, we will need leadership who will lead with strength, integrity, grit, determination, and heart.\u201d\n\nCommittee leadership is chosen by the members of the respective Caucuses for the upcoming Congress. The opportunity to serve as the highest-ranking Democrat on the Committee became an open contest last Monday, when Rep. Ra\u00fal Grijalva (AZ-07) announced he would no longer be able to run and passed the baton to Congresswoman Stansbury. Ranking Member Grijalva has served on the Natural Resources Committee since 2003 and as Ranking Member and Chair since 2015.\n\n\u201cI am proud to endorse my friend and colleague Representative Melanie Stansbury for Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee,\u201d Rep. Grijalva said in his endorsement. \u201c[She] has made her mark as a strategic and tenacious advocate for advancing environmental justice, strengthening Tribal sovereignty, and securing water for communities in the drought-stricken West. Her tenure as Ranking Member on the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee proves her leadership in standing up to polluting industries and holding them to account, even when Democrats don\u2019t hold the gavel.\u201d\n\nOther statements of support include:\n\nRep. Gabe Vasquez (NM-02): \u201cI believe that Congresswoman Stansbury has an ability to cut more deals, to be able to hopefully have a working relationship with Republican leadership in that committee, and not be so necessarily defensive about what the Trump administration is doing but find common ground.\u201d\n\nRep. Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34): \u201cCongresswoman Stansbury has been a devoted public servant for New Mexico\u2019s residents, first in the state legislature and now working for the people of NM-01. Since coming to Congress, she has championed water issues and introduced vital pieces of legislation\u2026\u201d\n\nChairman James R. Mountain, All Pueblo Council of Governors: \u201cWe know that the 119th Congress will bring significant challenges to Native American sacred sites on federal lands, the ongoing need to conserve water and approve water settlements, and the need to protect and improve federal programs and services that seek to meet the most basic treaty and trust obligations of the United States to Tribal Governments. Representative Stansbury is \u2026 the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice to meet each of those challenges.\u201d\n\nPresident Thora Walsh-Padilla, Mescalero Apache Tribe: \u201cThe Mescalero Apache Tribe [lends] our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\u201d\n\nGov. Michael Chavarria, Santa Clara Pueblo: \u201cRep. Stansbury \u2026 is experienced, open-hearted, and even handed. She would make an outstanding Ranking Member.\u201d\n\nGov. Myron Armijo, Pueblo of Santa Ana: \u201cThe Pueblo of Santa Ana writes to lend our strong support for Representative Melanie Stansbury to serve as Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources in the 119th Congress.\u201d\n\nGov. Milton Herrera, Pueblo of Tesuque: \u201cHer dedication to upholding the Government\u2019s solemn obligations to Indian Country make Rep. Melanie Stansbury the perfect candidate to serve as a leading voice \u2026\u201d\n\nIBEW LU#611: \u201cIt is with great enthusiasm that the IBEW Local 611 once again shows its support for Representative Stansbury. We know her to be an unparalleled supporter of labor and those causes dear to New Mexico\u2019s working class.\u201d\n\nNew Mexico Wild: \u201cShe is the ideal candidate to assume this critical leadership role at this time, combining deep subject matter expertise, unquestionable integrity, and fearlessness.\u201d\n\nAFT New Mexico: \u201cCongresswoman Stansbury has an ability to cut more deals, to be able to hopefully have a working relationship with Republican leadership in that committee, and not be so necessarily defensive about what the Trump administration is doing but find common ground.\u201d\n\nRep. Stansbury has dedicated her career to working on land, water and Tribal issues for over 20 years. As current Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, she is already a leader on the Committee, where she has championed climate and environmental justice, Tribal sovereignty, and good government.\n\nPrior to coming to Congress in 2021, after Secretary Deb Haaland\u2019s historic nomination to lead the U.S. Department of the Interior, Rep. Stansbury served in the New Mexico House of Representatives as Vice Chair of the same committee of jurisdiction, was a senior staffer on the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, and worked as a fellow and staff in both the White House Council on Environmental Quality and in the Interior Branch of the White House Office of Management and Budget.\n\nPrior to public service, she worked as a science educator and researcher working for state and higher education programs, Sandia National Laboratories, and the nonprofit sector.\n\nSince coming to Congress, Rep. Stansbury has championed and supported an extensive natural resources portfolio, including:\n\nSponsored and Cosponsored Legislation:\n\nPublic and Community Lands\n\nPromoting Accessibility on Federal Lands Act of 2023\n\nAmerica's Red Rock Wilderness Act\n\nBuffalo Tract Protection Act\n\nRural Outdoor Investment Act\n\nEXPLORE Act\n\nTribal Cultural Areas Protection Act\n\nChaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act\n\nWater\n\nRio Grande Water Security Act\n\nColorado River Basin Conservation Act\n\nWater Data Act\n\nWaterSMART Access for Tribes Act\n\nTAAP Act\n\nWatershed Protection and Forest Recovery Act of 2024\n\nPecos Watershed Protection Act\n\nTribal Issues\n\nSan Felipe Land Into Trust Bill\n\nIndian Health Service Provider Expansion Act\n\nAdvancing Tribal Parity on Public Lands Act\n\nSave Oak Flat from Foreign Mining Act\n\nTribal Water Rights Settlements\n\nIndian Water Rights Settlement Completion Fund\n\nNew Beginnings for Tribal Students Program\n\nRemediating Unexploded Ordnances from the Lands of the Pueblo of Isleta\n\nEnvironmental Justice Issues\n\nEnvironmental Justice for All Act\n\nEnvironmental Justice in Recreation Permitting Act\n\nOutdoors For All Act\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-states-plans-next-congress-and-backs-new-legislation", "Rep. Stansbury States Plans for Next Congress and Backs New Legislation", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) held a press call today to discuss her plans for the next Congress and a new bill, the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act (Polluters Pay Act), which would establish a new trust fund in the tax code called the \u201cNational Resilience and Recovery Fund\u201d with funds from taxes levied on corporate polluters.\n\n\"The National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act will close those loopholes and tax windfall profits made by price gouging consumers to fund federal community resilience projects and programs across the country,\u201d said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cIt\u2019s time to reinvest in our communities impacted by climate change. We can\u2019t afford to keep waiting.\u201d\n\n\u201cRight now, there is a clear path to winning the bid to become the next Ranking Member on the U.S House Committee on Natural Resources. I am speaking to Members, Tribes, and leadership to understand the vision that they have for this Committee. I have spent my entire career working at the forefront of issues that impact our communities\u2014and it is important now more than ever to not only have leaders that understand the community's needs but ensure that our institutions elect what the American people want.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we face another Trump presidency in the next chapter, it is crucial that we have leaders who know how legislation can get passed. We need leaders who can work effectively across the aisle, and under my leadership, we will accomplish just that. Project 2025 appointees plan to open Chaco Canyon to oil and gas drilling, which the entire New Mexico delegation has fought against for many years. We need a generational reset, and now is a perfect time to do that--and I am the one that will get the job done.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere has never been a woman in leadership in this committee. And right now, I am in listening mode. I am listening to Tribal leaders to understand how communities can be transformed. Before Rep. Ra\u00fal Grijalva's (AZ-07) role as Ranking Member on the U.S House Committee on Natural Resources, Rep. Ra\u00fal Grijalva (AZ-07) made sure to sit down with Members and listen to their priorities so that the issues they cared about made it into the committee and across the finish line. For me, honoring his historic legacy in this committee is continuing the work that he did while making sure the thoughts, visions, and dreams for the future are reflected.\u201d\n\nWatch the press call here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vicente-gonzalez-endorses-rep-stansbury-ranking-member-house-committee", "Rep. Vicente Gonzalez Endorses Rep. Stansbury for Ranking Member of House Committee on Natural Resources", "2024-12-09", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), welcomes the endorsement from Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) for Ranking Member on the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources:\n\n\u201cCongresswoman Stansbury has been a devoted public servant for New Mexico\u2019s residents, first in the state legislature and now working for the people of NM-01. Since coming to Congress, she has championed water issues and introduced vital pieces of legislation like the Rio Grande Water Security Act which addresses the long-term water security needs of communities not just in her home state, but along the 1,900 mile stretch of the Rio Grande. I am proud to endorse my friend for Ranking Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. I look forward to working together on critical water issues that impact South Texas.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/polluters-will-pay-new-legislation", "Polluters Will Pay in New Legislation", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) introduced the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act (Polluters Pay Act) that would establish a new trust fund in the tax code called the \u201cNational Resilience and Recovery Fund\u201d with funds from taxes levied on corporate polluters who, for too long, have used legal loopholes to skirt their responsibilities.\n\nThe co-leads for this legislation are Rep. Blumenauer (OR-03), Rep. Khanna (CA-17), Rep. Omar (MN-05), and Rep. Balint (VT-AL). The 0riginal cosponsors are Rep. Grijalva (AZ-07), Rep. Ocasio Cortez (NY-14), and Rep. Huffman (CA-02). Endorsing organizations include the League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club, Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council, Friends of Earth, Oil Change International.\n\nThis Polluters Pay legislation - The National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act \u2013will close those loopholes and tax windfall profits made by price gouging consumers to fund federal community resilience projects and programs across the country.\n\nSee photos from the press conference here.\n\nRead the bill here.\n\n\"The climate crisis is real and worsening. Every community is now at risk because of the greed of corporate polluters,\u201d said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cCorporate polluters not individual taxpayers should be the ones responsible for paying the costs. Let\u2019s close these egregious loopholes and tackle the rampant price gouging of American consumers so all our communities are more resilient in the face of this crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cCorporate greed is exploiting our communities, our health, and our future,\u201d said Rep. Raul Grijalva (AZ-07). \u201cIndustry polluters should be paying for the damage they cause, not profiting off of it. It\u2019s long past time for us to start holding these companies accountable \u2014 putting a stop to their price gouging and making them pay their fair share in taxes is a welcome start.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor far too long, corporate polluters have reaped massive profits while devastating our communities, particularly low-income and communities of color who bear the brunt of environmental injustice,\u201d said Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05). \u201cBy taxing windfall profits and closing corporate tax loopholes, we're sending a clear message that corporate greed will no longer come at the expense of our planet and our people.\u201d\n\n\u201cI represent a state that\u2019s on the frontlines of climate change. In Vermont, there\u2019s no denying the climate crisis because we experience it every year. It\u2019s our new normal,\u201d said Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL). \u201cWe\u2019re calling on the country\u2019s biggest polluters, biggest contributors to climate change, to pay for their damages. It\u2019s common sense. I\u2019m proud to support this federal Polluters Pay legislation, an accountability tool which has already passed in Vermont. We need this funding for every American because the climate crisis touches every congressional district. The burden must be on the polluting corporations who rake in billions in profits each year \u2014 not on individual consumers. We can no longer afford to let them take advantage of our tax code and evade responsibility to protect our planet. They must pay.\u201d\n\n\u201cClimate disasters are wreaking havoc on communities across the country, yet the corporations driving this crisis continue to evade accountability,\u201d said Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02). \u201cWe must hold polluters accountable by ensuring they bear the financial burden of contributing to the resilience and recovery of the communities they\u2019ve harmed, rather than leaving taxpayers to shoulder the costs of their environmental destruction. It is crucial that Congress delivers a much-needed dose of fairness and justice while building a stronger, more sustainable future for all.\"\n\nThe lawmakers want to establish a new trust fund in the tax code called the \u201cNational Resilience and Recovery Fund\u201d with monies from taxes levied on these corporations- who for too long have used legal loopholes to skirt their responsibilities. This trust fund will ensure every community has the support it needs for recovery and resiliency efforts. It will direct those revenues to a fund which contributes to federal community resilience projects and programs across the country.\n\nIn 2024 so far, there have been 400 total climate disasters resulting in almost $3 trillion dollars\u2019 worth of damage. However, it\u2019s taxpayers not corporate polluters on the hook for the cost of these disasters. Polluters who have contributed to the climate crisis should be the ones responsible for paying the costs.\n\nThis will ensure that those responsible for the climate crisis are responsible for the costs of preparing communities, not taxpayers.\n\nStatements of support are below:\n\n\u201cCorporate polluters have operated under the assumption that they can rake in profits without ever being held responsible for their part in the climate crisis. As communities grapple with more and worse disasters driven by extreme weather, it\u2019s about time Big Oil and Gas companies are expected to help rebuild and repair the damage caused by their business activities,\u201d said Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club\u2019s Director of Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy. \u201cWe are grateful for the leadership of Rep. Melanie Stansbury in ensuring fossil fuel companies contribute a fair share in cleaning up their mess. We hope this is just the beginning of making polluters pay.\u201d\n\n\u201cBig Polluters have refused to take responsibility for the damage they have done to our climate and communities despite knowing the harms of fossil fuels for decades. We applaud Representative Stansbury along with Representatives Blumenauer, Khanna, Omar, and Balint for leading on the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act,\u201d said Matthew Davis, Vice President of Federal Policy for the League of Conservation Voters. \u201cThis legislation would ensure Big Polluters foot the bill for critical investments to help mitigate the impacts of fossil-fueled extreme weather and combat environmental injustice, especially in communities of color and communities with low wealth that have been most harmed by fossil fuel development. Now more than ever, we need action to hold Big Polluters accountable, protect our communities, and build climate resilience.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans are sick of paying the price for the fossil fuel industry\u2019s profits,\u201d said Jamie Henn, spokesperson for Make Polluters Pay. \u201cEven my three-year-old knows that when you make a mess, you\u2019ve got to help clean it up. Oil and gas companies have known for decades that their product was fueling the climate crisis, and it\u2019s past time they were held accountable for the damage. This is exactly the type of legislation we need to help make polluters pay.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/jec-trumps-plan-of-vengeance-to-deport-undocumented-workers-and-impose-tariffs-will-not-create-jobs", "JEC: Trump\u2019s \u201cplan of vengeance to deport undocumented workers and impose tariffs will not create jobs\u201d", "2024-12-06", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C.\u2014 Today, Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), issued the following statement after the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that nonfarm payroll employment increased by 227,000 in November and the unemployment rate increased to 4.2%. The unemployment rate was 6.4% for Black workers, 5.3% for Hispanic workers, 3.8% for white workers, 3.8% for Asian workers, and 8.3% (not seasonally adjusted) for American Indian and Alaska Native workers.\n\n\u201cPresident-Elect Trump and Republicans love to rewrite history. Here are the facts: Trump was the first President since World War II to leave office with fewer jobs than when his administration started. And his disastrous policies will hurt our economy once again.\u201d\n\n\u201cDon\u2019t let them fool you. His plan of vengeance to deport millions of undocumented workers and impose tariffs will not create jobs. It will not support our manufacturers, farmers, or small businesses. And it certainly will not grow our economy. It will only create an unmitigated disaster for everyday Americans who will struggle to make ends meet.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-announces-carlsbad-high-school-students-2024-congressional", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Announces Carlsbad High School Students as 2024 Congressional App Challenge Winners", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 On Thursday, December 5, 2024, U.S. RepresentativeGabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) announced Rubye Chappa, Jonethan Camarena and Raj Bhakta, students from Carlsbad High School, as the winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for New Mexico\u2019s second congressional district.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to Rubye, Jonethan and Raj of Carlsbad High School for their creative and thoughtful creation that addresses the critical issue of domestic violence,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cTheir app, Flip-Side, is a powerful example of how technology can make a real difference. I\u2019m very proud of these talented students who are leading the next generation of New Mexico\u2019s innovators and problem-solvers.\u201d\n\nTheir app, Flip-Side, is designed to provide victims of domestic violence a secure and discreet space to plan and use local resources. Chappa, Camarena and Bhakta were inspired to create the app after learning about alarming domestic violence statistics in New Mexico.\n\nThe Congressional App Challenge is the most prestigious prize in student computer science. The challenge encourages middle and high school students to learn to code and inspires them to pursue careers in computer science. Each U.S. Representative recognizes a winning team, and each winning app is put on display in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-successfully-secure-the-confirmation-of-sarah-davenport-for-us-district-court-for-the-district-of-new-mexico", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n Successfully Secure the Confirmation of Sarah Davenport for U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) secured the confirmation of Sarah Davenport for U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico.\n\n\u201cSarah Davenport has built an impressive legal career as a federal prosecutor in New Mexico and has strong roots in her home community of Las Cruces,\u201d said Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n. \u201cWe are proud to have secured Ms. Davenport\u2019s confirmation and look forward to her serving the District of New Mexico, delivering justice, and upholding the rule of law.\u201d\n\nSarah Morgan Davenport has served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico in Las Cruces, New Mexico, since 2009. In that capacity, her practice focused on prosecuting complex, multi-defendant criminal cases. From 2008 to 2009, Ms. Davenport served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the District of New Mexico in Las Cruces. And from 2006 to 2008, she served as an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Law Clerk with the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the District of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She received her J.D. from the University of New Mexico in 2006 and her B.M. from the University of New Mexico in 1998.\n\nIn September, before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n introduced Sarah Davenport for consideration to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. The senators strongly recommended Davenport to the Biden Administration and welcomed the announcement of her nomination in August.\n\nIn June, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n commended the Honorable William Paul Johnson, who announced his intention to retire from regular active service as a United States District Court Judge effective in January 2025, after 23 years of distinguished service on the federal bench. The seat on the District Court for the District of New Mexico, which Davenport has been confirmed to fill, will be based in Las Cruces, N.M.\n\nDuring the Biden Administration, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n have worked together to confirm three of the currently sitting federal judges: District Judges Margaret Strickland, David Herrera Urias, and Matthew Garcia. In August, the senators also successfully secured the confirmation of David O. Barnett, Jr. for U.S. Marshal for the District of New Mexico. During the Trump Administration, Heinrich joined with then-Senator Tom Udall to confirm one additional currently sitting federal judge: District Judge Kea Riggs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-welcomes-15-million-in-usda-funding-for-acequias-and-45-million-for-tribal-water-projects", "N.M. Delegation Welcomes $15 Million in USDA Funding for Acequias and $45 Million for Tribal Water Projects", "2024-12-05", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "New funding initiative will support New Mexico\u2019s farmers and producers while reducing water losses\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) Water-Saving Commodities Program to support agricultural production while reducing water losses in communities across the West.\n\nThis update to the Water Saving Commodities Program initially announced in August follows consistent efforts by the NM Delegation to secure additional resources to help New Mexican agricultural producers address drought. New funding announced by the USDA includes $15 million to support acequias through a partnership with the New Mexico and Colorado State Associations of Conservation Districts and $45 million of funding from the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to support the preliminary selection of three Congressionally-authorized Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Irrigation Projects including the Navajo Indian Irrigation Project in New Mexico.\n\n\"Growers are feeling the undeniable strain of less predictable rainfall and extended droughts. This means its harder and harder for growers to make ends meet, food at grocery stores gets more expensive, and the agriculture economy and way of life in rural communities take major hits,\u201d said Heinrich, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and the Food and Drug Administration. \u201cAs Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for federal agriculture funding, I am thrilled to see our appropriations helping farmers and producers\u2014investing in water-smart solutions to keep putting healthy food on our tables, bolstering local economies, and protecting New Mexico\u2019s long-term water security.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am committed to bolstering New Mexico\u2019s agriculture production, resources for acequias, and Tribal water projects. As New Mexico and our Western state neighbors address long-term drought, it\u2019s critical that the federal government invests in reducing water loss and supporting our farmers, ranchers, and producers,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cI\u2019m proud to welcome this multi-million dollar investment for acequias and Tribes, including the Navajo Indian Irrigation Project, and I will continue fighting to deliver investments to New Mexico.\u201d\n\n\u201cAgua es vida\u2014especially in New Mexico.This critical funding recognizes the deep connection our communities have to our water and agricultural traditions,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cAcequias have guided the life-giving waters of New Mexico\u2019s rivers to nurture our communities and fields for centuries, while Tribal irrigation projects are vital to sovereignty and food security. This $15 million for acequias and $45 million for Tribal irrigation projects will help our farmers and producers adapt to the challenges of drought and climate change while honoring and preserving our water heritage for future generations.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur acequias are a lifeline for so many New Mexicans,\u201d said Stansbury. \u201cOur people have been stewards of these waters for generations, and I am grateful that this funding will not only help conserve our precious resources, but upgrade infrastructure to help with the impacts of drought. Water is life!\u201d\n\n\u201cAgua es vida. This investment is a critical step towards protecting our vital acequias and will directly benefit our farmers, ranchers and Tribal nations who depend on sustainable water solutions,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cThis funding through the Water Saving Commodity program ensures we can protect our water supply, support economic growth and honor our commitments to environmental stewardship.\u201d\n\nBackground on Water Saving Commodity Program:\n\nIn August, USDA announced the preliminary selection of 18 irrigation districts, including the Elephant Butte Irrigation District in New Mexico, for $400 million of new funding to support the production of water-saving commodities. USDA has entered into formal agreements with all 18 districts to implement water-saving strategies across the West. The Elephant Butte Irrigation District will receive up to $15 million in funding from this program.\n\nIn April, Heinrich, Vasquez and U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and U.S. Representative Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.) led 26 of their colleagues representing Western states in a letter urging the Biden administration to make further investments to address long-term drought caused by climate change. The lawmakers applaud the administration\u2019s previous and ongoing efforts to combat drought in the American West \u2013 including through the Western Water and Working Lands Framework and by opening up Inflation Reduction Act funding for additional climate-smart agriculture practices \u2013 and called for further action to address Western drought through investments in upstream watershed-scale projects, water forecasting, water conservation, and watershed restoration.\n\nProducers who participate in USDA\u2019s Water Saving Commodity Program will receive payments for voluntarily reducing water consumption while maintaining and expanding water-saving commodity production. This funding will help conserve up to 50,000 acre-feet in water use across 250,000 acres of irrigated land in production, while expanding and creating new, sustainable market opportunities. The new program, coupled with investments from the Western Water Framework, will support innovative measures for water conservation while building resilience for long-term agricultural production in New Mexico and the West.\n\n$15 Million for Acequia Partnerships:\n\nWith this newly announced $15 million of funding, USDA will dedicate resources specifically for Water-Saving Commodities partnerships with both the New Mexico and Colorado State Associations of Conservation Districts to collaborate with community operated irrigation systems known as acequias to produce water-saving commodities.\n\nIn many New Mexico communities, acequias are the stewards of surface waters that not only flow to their fields but help replenish rivers, wetlands and groundwater. These partnerships will enhance existing cooperative efforts and partnerships between acequias and local conservation districts to provide education, outreach, and technical services needed to keep production up while responsibly utilizing water and other natural resources during drought conditions.\n\nAcequias and land grant-mercedes (land grants) are communities that are deeply important to the culture and history of New Mexico. These traditional communities can trace their origin back centuries and are now incorporated into New Mexico\u2019s government as independent political subdivisions. Unlike other subdivisions, such as irrigation and conservation districts, acequias and land grants are unable to levy taxes on users, and thus the cost of upkeep and repairs has historically been placed on individual members of the community. There are hundreds of acequias and dozens of land grants in New Mexico.\n\nLast year, Luj\u00e1n and U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced bipartisan legislation that ensures acequias are able to access the same USDA disaster assistance programs available to other agricultural systems. The ACEQUIA Act amends the Non-insured Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) to ensure that Parciantes qualify for drought and other disaster assistance. Additionally, the legislation codifies current agency guidance that Parciantes do not need to obtain a special-use permit to perform routine maintenance or in-kind improvements on federal land. Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) introduced the House companion bill.\n\nThat legislation built on Senator Luj\u00e1n\u2019s successful effort to ensure the USDA fully compensates Rio Arriba farmers and ranchers for unfair changes made to the Non-insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) reimbursement rate by the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in New Mexico.\n\nAs part of the 2018 Farm Bill, Heinrich and then-U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) secured a provision to make acequias and land grant-mercedes eligible for grants and technical assistance from conservation and environmental programs through USDA\u2019s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to increase agricultural water efficiency and further conservation of soil, water, and other natural resources.\n\n$45 Million for Tribal Irrigation Projects:\n\nAs part of the same announcement, USDA announced that the FSA has dedicated $45 million specifically for Water-Saving Commodities assistance to help Tribal communities with BIA Irrigation Projects. These investments will help the selected projects\u2014including the Navajo Indian Irrigation Project in New Mexico\u2014strengthen their irrigation practices in places experiencing the impacts from drought, reducing water losses, while continuing agricultural commodity production.\n\nUSDA held a Tribal consultation this summer, engaged with BIA, and applied a similar criteria that was used to select the irrigation projects to target funding within the Tribal set-aside.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-legislation-to-stop-predatory-payday-lending-practices", "Heinrich Cosponsors Legislation to Stop Predatory Payday Lending Practices", "2024-12-04", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) cosponsored the Stopping Abuse and Fraud in Electronic (SAFE) Lending Act, legislation that will safeguard consumers from predatory payday lending practices.\n\n\u201cPart of building an economy that benefits working people means cracking down on predatory lending practices that put folks into an endless cycle of debt,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cWith an incoming administration hellbent on weakening consumer protections, we need to ensure states have the tools needed to help consumers better protect themselves against abusive lending practices.\u201d\n\nPredatory payday lenders have flourished online despite laws passed by many states, including New Mexico, to stop abusive lending. Internet lenders hide behind layers of anonymously registered websites and \u201clead generators\u201d to evade enforcement and can empty consumers\u2019 bank accounts before they have a chance to assert their rights.\n\nSpecifically, the SAFE Lending Act would:\n\nThe legislation is led by U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). Alongside Heinrich, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.). In the House, the legislation is led by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) and Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.).\n\nThe SAFE Lending Act is endorsed by the National Consumer Law Center, Consumer Action, Consumer Federation of America, Main Street Alliance, U.S. PIRG, UnidosUS, Greenlining Institute, and National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansburys-statement-trumps-fbi-pick-kash-patel", "Rep. Stansbury\u2019s Statement on Trump\u2019s FBI Pick Kash Patel", "2024-12-03", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, released the following statement on President-Elect Trump\u2019s FBI Director Pick, Kash Patel:\n\n\u201cThe announcement that Trump will nominate Kash Patel to serve as Director of the FBI continues a deeply disturbing and dangerous trend by the President-Elect of nominating unqualified political loyalists to positions that will test the balance of power in this country,\u201d said Rep Melanie Stansbury (NM - 01). \u201cIf confirmed, Patel has made it clear that he will come after Trump\u2019s \u201cenemies\u201d and prosecute them. He will also assist Trump in evading legal and constitutional accountability and test the limits of Presidential power. Even former Trump appointees have pointed to the dangers of Patel\u2019s appointment with Bill Barr and Gina Haspel refusing to work with Patel during his last presidency. This man is dangerous and must not be confirmed as Director of the FBI.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/nm-delegation-urges-forest-service-complete-mineral-withdrawal-process-upper", "N.M. Delegation Urges Forest Service to Complete Mineral Withdrawal Process at Upper Pecos Watershed, Protect Watershed From Future Mining Threats", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) alongside U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) and Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) called on the U.S. Forest Service to complete the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process in the Upper Pecos Watershed. Completing the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed would safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos from the dangers of future mining and ensure future generations can continue to benefit from this critical watershed.\n\n\u201cTo safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos, we strongly urge the Forest Service to complete, without delay, the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\n\u201cAny contamination of the watershed from mining would directly harm water quality, threatening local economies, fish and wildlife, and the health of the people living along the Pecos. These rural communities have made it clear: they do not want mining operations that could endanger the environment, their way of life, and the long-term sustainability of the region,\u201d continued the lawmakers.\n\nThe Pecos River is not only an essential source of water for communities throughout New Mexico but also supplies water to traditional acequias and helps support agriculture that sustains families and livelihoods in New Mexico. In 2023, Luj\u00e1n, Heinrich, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez introduced the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, legislation to protect portions of the Pecos Watershed in northern New Mexico from all mineral development. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus endorsed this legislation in October 2024.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 full letter is here and below:\n\nDear Chief Moore,\n\nWe are writing to follow up on your previous letter from April 11, 2023, in which the U.S. Forest Service (Forest Service) agreed to begin \u201cevaluating the potential risk of mineral development in the Upper Pecos Watershed and whether\u2026current laws and regulations are adequate for its protection.\u201d The Pecos River irrigates farmland that families rely on for their economic survival in the immediate vicinity of the forest and for hundreds of miles in New Mexico. The communities along the Pecos River cannot afford the risk of another toxic spill. To protect this critical watershed, we request that the Forest Service provide an update on its evaluation and complete the initial steps of the administrative withdrawal process, without delay.\n\nThe Pecos River is not only an essential source of water for communities throughout New Mexico but is also deeply tied to our state\u2019s cultural heritage. Traditional acequias\u2014community-operated irrigation canals\u2014rely on the river for water, supporting agriculture that sustains families and livelihoods. Pueblos use the land for fishing and hunting as well as ceremonial purposes. Any contamination of the watershed from mining would directly harm water quality, threatening local economies, fish and wildlife, and the health of the people living along the Pecos. These rural communities have made it clear: they do not want mining operations that could endanger the environment, their way of life, and the long-term sustainability of the region.\n\nThese risks of mining are not hypothetical. In 1991, toxic waste from a closed mine spilled into the Pecos River, killing fish along an 11-mile stretch. The cleanup took decades and cost millions of taxpayer dollars. The spill left scars on the landscape and on the memories of those who depend on the river. It is imperative that we learn from this tragic history and prevent further damage by protecting the Pecos watershed from new mining threats.\n\nEarlier this Congress, members of the New Mexico Congressional Delegation introduced S.3033/H.R.5943, the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, to safeguard this vital resource for future generations. The legislation would permanently withdraw future mining in sections of federal land in the Upper Pecos Watershed. The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted to advance this legislation on December 14, 2023, and we are grateful that the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management both provided written statements in support for the bill. More recently, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus endorsed this legislation in October 2024.\n\nWhile the Pecos Watershed Protection Act continues to progress through Congress, the Forest Service can act now to administratively withdraw the land from mineral development. To safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos, we strongly urge the Forest Service to complete, without delay, the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management. In addition, we request a briefing for our staff by no later than December 12, 2024 if the Forest Service believes that the mineral segregation process may not be complete by the end of the year.\n\nCommunities along the Pecos River are asking for your leadership to protect their water, culture, and health from the dangers of mining, and to ensure future generations can continue to benefit from this critical watershed.\n\nThank you for your attention to this important matter.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-legislation-to-protect-rural-postal-processing-facilities", "Heinrich Cosponsors Legislation to Protect Rural Postal Processing Facilities", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) cosponsored the Postal Processing Protection Act, legislation that will require the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to fully study the consequences of closing or downsizing rural mail processing facilities before making any final decisions in an effort to protect rural mail processing facilities.\n\n\u201cFolks across New Mexico rely on the U.S. Postal Service to receive everything from paychecks to prescription medicine. I\u2019m proud to cosponsor legislation that would force this agency to think twice before taking away an essential service from New Mexicans living in rural communities,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\nCurrently, the USPS is not required to study or consider the effects of closures or consolidations of rural mail processing facilities on the communities they serve.\n\nThe Postal Processing Protection Act will require the USPS to consider the impact to rural areas when closing or downsizing processing centers, just as they do with closing post office retail locations.\n\nThe legislation is led by U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). Alongside Heinrich, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.).\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-urges-forest-service-to-complete-mineral-withdrawal-process-at-upper-pecos-watershed-protect-watershed-from-future-mining-threats", "N.M. Delegation Urges Forest Service to Complete Mineral Withdrawal Process at Upper Pecos Watershed, Protect Watershed From Future Mining Threats", "2024-12-02", "2024", "2024-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) called on the U.S. Forest Service to complete the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process in the Upper Pecos Watershed. Completing the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed would safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos from the dangers of future mining and ensure future generations can continue to benefit from this critical watershed.\n\n\u201cTo safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos, we strongly urge the Forest Service to complete, without delay, the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\n\u201cAny contamination of the watershed from mining would directly harm water quality, threatening local economies, fish and wildlife, and the health of the people living along the Pecos. These rural communities have made it clear: they do not want mining operations that could endanger the environment, their way of life, and the long-term sustainability of the region,\u201d continued the lawmakers.\n\nThe Pecos River is not only an essential source of water for communities throughout New Mexico but also supplies water to traditional acequias and helps support agriculture that sustains families and livelihoods in New Mexico. In 2023, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez introduced the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, legislation to protect portions of the Pecos Watershed in northern New Mexico from all mineral development. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus endorsed this legislation in October 2024.\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 full letter is here and below:\n\nDear Chief Moore,\n\nWe are writing to follow up on your previous letter from April 11, 2023, in which the U.S. Forest Service (Forest Service) agreed to begin \u201cevaluating the potential risk of mineral development in the Upper Pecos Watershed and whether\u2026current laws and regulations are adequate for its protection.\u201d The Pecos River irrigates farmland that families rely on for their economic survival in the immediate vicinity of the forest and for hundreds of miles in New Mexico. The communities along the Pecos River cannot afford the risk of another toxic spill. To protect this critical watershed, we request that the Forest Service provide an update on its evaluation and complete the initial steps of the administrative withdrawal process, without delay.\n\nThe Pecos River is not only an essential source of water for communities throughout New Mexico but is also deeply tied to our state\u2019s cultural heritage. Traditional acequias\u2014community-operated irrigation canals\u2014rely on the river for water, supporting agriculture that sustains families and livelihoods. Pueblos use the land for fishing and hunting as well as ceremonial purposes. Any contamination of the watershed from mining would directly harm water quality, threatening local economies, fish and wildlife, and the health of the people living along the Pecos. These rural communities have made it clear: they do not want mining operations that could endanger the environment, their way of life, and the long-term sustainability of the region.\n\nThese risks of mining are not hypothetical. In 1991, toxic waste from a closed mine spilled into the Pecos River, killing fish along an 11-mile stretch. The cleanup took decades and cost millions of taxpayer dollars. The spill left scars on the landscape and on the memories of those who depend on the river. It is imperative that we learn from this tragic history and prevent further damage by protecting the Pecos watershed from new mining threats.\n\nEarlier this Congress, members of the New Mexico Congressional Delegation introduced S.3033/H.R.5943, the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, to safeguard this vital resource for future generations. The legislation would permanently withdraw future mining in sections of federal land in the Upper Pecos Watershed. The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted to advance this legislation on December 14, 2023, and we are grateful that the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management both provided written statements in support for the bill. More recently, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus endorsed this legislation in October 2024.\n\nWhile the Pecos Watershed Protection Act continues to progress through Congress, the Forest Service can act now to administratively withdraw the land from mineral development. To safeguard the lands, waters, and way of life in the Pecos, we strongly urge the Forest Service to complete, without delay, the initial steps of the mineral withdrawal process for the watershed in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management. In addition, we request a briefing for our staff by no later than December 12, 2024 if the Forest Service believes that the mineral segregation process may not be complete by the end of the year.\n\nCommunities along the Pecos River are asking for your leadership to protect their water, culture, and health from the dangers of mining, and to ensure future generations can continue to benefit from this critical watershed.\n\nThank you for your attention to this important matter.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:13:55Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-veterans-day", "Heinrich Statement on Veterans Day", "2024-11-11", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 11, 2019) \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement in recognition of Veterans Day.\n\n\u201cI am so proud to recognize the thousands of New Mexicans who have demonstrated great courage in service to our nation. Our state has a rich tradition of answering the call of duty, from the Navajo Code Talkers, Bataan Death March survivors, and Korean and Vietnam War GI\u2019s to more recent veterans who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan. That tradition continues today among the brave men and women serving at Cannon, Holloman, and Kirtland Air Force Bases, Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range, and all across the world.\n\n\u201cWe must be unwavering in our commitment to our men and women who have served. They deserve so much more than just words of gratitude for their sacrifice when they return home. Our ability to maintain the strongest and most dedicated military in the world depends on our nation's ability to keep the promises we have made to veterans and their families. We must provide them with the best care, benefits, and opportunities they earned. I will never stop fighting to ensure our veterans and their families, who have sacrificed so much, receive the best education, housing, and health care.\n\n\u201cOn Veterans Day, and on every day, I join all Americans in honoring those who have served in our military and those who continue to serve our great nation.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-introduces-legislation-clarify-treatment-military-retirement-pay", "Rep. Stansbury Introduces Legislation to Clarify Treatment of Military Retirement Pay", "2024-11-08", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) introduced the Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act to expand benefits for veteran railroad workers. This legislation would amend the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act (RUIA) to clarify the treatment of military retirement pay in relation to unemployment and sickness benefits.\n\n\u201cWe must always support our veterans. Our service members and their families sacrificed for our freedoms, and it is paramount that we do everything in our power to ensure they have access to resources and benefits through their service to our country,\u201d said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cNew Mexico is home to approximately 140,000 veterans, representing about 10% of our state\u2019s population. It is crucial that we support our veterans during periods of job loss and uncertainty. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this vital legislation. Together we can ensure that our policies reflect our values\u2014honoring our brave veterans while also protecting those who depend on insurance as a safety net.\u201d\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the 838,000 active and retired members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, I thank U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury for introducing the Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act. The act aims to correct current regulations that deny critical benefits to veterans who receive military retirement pay,\u201d said Kenneth W. Cooper, IBEW International President. \u201cRailroad workers, many of whom are veterans, deserve fair treatment when they experience injuries on the job. By amending the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, this proposal will repair an unintended injustice faced by those who have served our country and now perform vital work on our nation\u2019s railways. The IBEW strongly supports this effort to protect the rights of all railroaders and urges swift action by Congress.\u201d\n\nKey Provisions of the Legislation:\n\n\u2022 Exclusion of Military Retirement Pay: The amendment will explicitly state that military retirement pay will not be considered a social insurance payment.\n\n\u2022 Clarification of Benefit Calculations: By redefining what constitutes \u201cother social insurance payments,\u201d the amendment provides clarity for both the Railroad Retirement Board and beneficiaries.\n\nRead the bill here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-fights-bring-more-healthcare-providers-indian-country", "Rep. Stansbury Fights to Bring More Healthcare Providers to Indian Country", "2024-11-04", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) introduced the IHS Provider Expansion Act, which establishes an Office of Graduate Medical Education Programs within the Indian Health Service (IHS). This legislation would expand the existing IHS Residency Program, building from the Shiprock-University of New Mexico (SUNM) Family Medicine Residency which is the first in the nation.\n\n\"Access to healthcare should not be determined by history or geography,\u201d said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cThe IHS Provider Expansion Act is a vital step towards ensuring that Native and Indigenous communities can access healthcare and grow the number of medical professionals serving Native communities. By investing in medical education within the Indian Health Service, we can help expand healthcare and bridge the gap in healthcare disparities that have persisted for far too long.\"\n\nIn New Mexico, which is home to 23 Tribal Nations and a population that is nearly 12% Native, access to healthcare services is a pressing issue. Currently, IHS provides services in 37 states to about 2.2 million out of 3.7 million Indigenous people in the country.\n\nThis bill is projected to directly impact millions of people across the country served by the IHS to improve access to healthcare and medical professionals who understand the unique health challenges faced by Tribal communities.\n\nBy expanding access through IHS, this bill will also help to address the significant deficit of rural primary healthcare providers across the country. Recent data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shows rural areas across the country face a significant deficit in primary care providers, with more than 80 million Americans living in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).\n\nBy expanding graduate medical education opportunities through IHS, we can expect an increase in the number of physicians willing to practice in these underserved regions.\n\nKey Provisions of the Legislation:\n\nEstablishment of the Office: The Secretary of Health makes permanent the Office of Graduate Medical Education Programs to oversee residency and fellowship initiatives within the IHS.\n\nCreating a Pipeline: The Office will facilitate opportunities for future healthcare professionals, paraprofessionals, and other health-related workers to engage in residency and fellowship programs.\n\nOversight of Residency Programs: The Office will oversee existing residency and fellowship programs at IHS facilities and support the creation of additional programs aimed at recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals.\n\nCoordination with Academic Institutions: The Office will work in collaboration with academic institutions to strengthen educational ties and enhance training opportunities.\n\nInteragency Working Group: An interagency working group, involving various federal agencies, will assist in the implementation and sustainability of the Office, ensuring ongoing support and resources.\n\nRead the bill here.\n\nView the press conference here.\n\nOther statements of support:\n\n\"Investing in healthcare for Indian Country means supporting the professionals who provide it. This legislation will help address critical clinical shortages by creating a pipeline of well-trained, culturally competent providers for our tribal communities. We know long-standing vacancies have a negative effect on patient access, quality of care, and employee morale,\" said Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (NM-03). \"By establishing an Office of Graduate Medical Education through IHS, we are taking steps to bridge the gap in care and make sure Native communities have the medical support they deserve.\"\n\n\"With Tribal communities in Arizona and across the country facing a critical shortage of health care professionals, it\u2019s vital that we pass theIHS Provider Expansion Act,\"said Congressman Ra\u00fal Grijalva (D-AZ). \"This legislation will address health care worker recruitment and retention challenges at IHS facilities and establish a much-needed pipeline of health care professionals. I\u2019m proud to support fully funding IHS and providing the resources, personnel, and training required to serve Indian Country\u2019s health care needs.\"\n\n\"Tribal communities across the country face unacceptable barriers to accessing quality health care\u2014a crisis that is exacerbated by chronic understaffing at the Indian Health Service. As Ranking Member of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees IHS, I've heard firsthand how provider shortages lead to delayed care for patients and expensive travel contracts,\" said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine). \"By establishing an Office of Graduate Medical Education at IHS that focuses on a dedicated pipeline to recruit and train talented physicians in tribal health systems, this legislation will help build a robust, sustainable workforce tailored to the unique needs of Native communities. I'm proud to be an original cosponsor. Together, we can tear down barriers to quality, culturally-competent care in tribal health systems from Maine to New Mexico and beyond.\"\n\n\"The University of New Mexico Health Sciences is very supportive of this legislation that seeks to increase the number of physicians who work caring for Native American populations by supporting residency and fellowship training in Indian Health Service facilities,\" said Dan Waldman, MD Vice Chair of Education Department of Family & Community Medicine University of New Mexico. \"The proposed Office of Graduate Medical Education within the Indian Health Service would provide much-needed federal programmatic infrastructure and help create partnerships with academic institutions such as UNM. Where physicians train has an important impact on where they choose to work after they complete their training, and it can also impact their cultural knowledge of the populations they will ultimately work with. UNM also recognizes the potential value of expanding \u201cgrow your own\u201d professional pipelines, including new opportunities for our local Indigenous medical residents and fellows to remain closer to home. Attracting, educating, and retaining New Mexico\u2019s health professional talent remains a top priority for UNM Health Sciences educational administration.\"\n\n\"First Nations Community HealthSource supports Representative Stansbury\u2019s Indian Health Service (IHS) Provider Expansion Act,\" said First Nations Community HealthSource CEO Linda Stone. \"First Nations Community HealthSource is New Mexico\u2019s Urban Indian Health Center in Albuquerque. Its mission is to provide a comprehensive healthcare delivery system that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of urban Indigenous people and other underserved populations in Albuquerque and the surrounding areas. First Nations Community HealthSource faces significant shortages of healthcare professionals, a national and state-wide challenge. The IHS Provider Expansion Act will help alleviate these shortages and improve access to essential healthcare services in American Indian communities.\"\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-hoeven-senate-passes-bipartisan-resolution-designating-november-2-as-national-bison-day", "Heinrich, Hoeven: Senate Passes Bipartisan Resolution Designating November 2 as National Bison Day", "2024-11-01", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and John Hoeven (R-N.D.) announced that the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution they led to designate November 2, 2024, as National Bison Day.\n\n\"Bison represent resiliency and are an enduring symbol of American strength. They have been a critical part of our culture for generations \u2014 in New Mexico, across the West, and especially in Indian Country,\" said Heinrich. \"I\u2019m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution with Senator Hoeven to recognize our national mammal and raise awareness for the ongoing efforts to conserve this unique species.\"\n\n\u201cNational Bison Day is an opportunity to commemorate our national mammal and the unique role that bison have played in America,\u201d said Hoeven. \u201cWe are fortunate to have the bison as our emblem of the pioneering spirit exemplified by Americans throughout our history.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the resolution is available here.\n\nHeinrich and Hoeven introduced their bipartisan National Bison Legacy Act in 2015, and the legislation was signed into law in 2016. The National Bison Legacy Act recognized the bison\u2019s significance in American history and designated it as the United States\u2019 national mammal.\n\nHeinrich and Hoeven are the Chairman and Ranking Member, respectively, of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-leger-fernandez-urge-hermits-peak/calf-canyon-claims-office-to-address-concerns-with-the-compensation-process-help-new-mexicans-get-the-relief-and-compensation-needed-to-recover", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez Urge Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office to Address Concerns with the Compensation Process, Help New Mexicans Get the Relief & Compensation Needed to Recover", "2024-11-01", "2024", "2024-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) sent a letter urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director of the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office and the FEMA Director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office to address concerns from New Mexicans about the process for receiving compensation from the Claims Office.\n\nCreated by the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act in 2022 \u2013 legislation championed and passed by N.M. Congressional Democrats \u2013 the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is responsible for processing New Mexicans\u2019 claims that arose from the wildfire. Since the devastating wildfire, the N.M. Delegation has secured a total of $3.95 billion in federal funding for the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire recovery.\n\n\u201cThe Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses in New Mexico. The fire and subsequent flooding displaced thousands of our constituents for months, wiped away generations of history, and uprooted families from their communities. And yet, over two years later, many New Mexicans continue to wait for the relief and compensation they are owed by the federal government,\u201d the lawmakers wrote to Jay Mitchell, FEMA Director of the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office, and Michael Plostock, FEMA Director of the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office.\n\n\u201cAfter a significant delay in getting the Claims Office fully staffed and operational, and after further delays in dispersing funds, improvements to the Claims Office\u2019s processes and best practices are still sorely needed. While we are encouraged by recent changes within the Claims Office, we have continued to hear concerns from our constituents about their experience with the process for receiving compensation from the Claims Office,\u201d the lawmakers continued.\n\n\u201cThe Claims Office must process claims faster, communicate with claimants on a regular and consistent basis, and pay fair compensation. We also ask that processes and formulas reflect unique aspects of New Mexico such as adobe, historic structures, and subsistence living where large cache of food are kept in freezers,\u201d the lawmakers further continued.\n\nTo address these concerns and ensure that victims of the fire have all the information and tools they need to get compensation from the Claims Office, the lawmakers requested that Directors Mitchell and Plostock answer the following questions:\n\n1. How is the Claims Office working to more consistently communicate with claimants through proactive communication and responding to claimant inquiries in a timely manner?\n\n2. How is the Claims Office working to speed up the review of total loss claims in a way that ensures these claimants receive full compensation for culturally and structurally unique buildings, such as adobe?\n\n3. How many claimants have total home losses? Of those, how many have been compensated to date (broken down between partial and full compensation)? And of those who lost homes, how many of those are living in a new home or are in the building process?\n\n4. What steps is the Claims Office taking to ensure that claimants who do not possess traditional mortgage documentation or property deeds receive compensation quickly?\n\n5. What are the policies and processes in place to ensure that claimants can retain their assigned navigator if they so choose?\n\n6. When using standard rate calculators and tools from the insurance industry, how is the Claims Office working to make changes and updates to maximize the amount of compensation claimants are awarded?\n\n7. How is the Claims Office working to reduce the amount of tax documentation required from claimants, rather than add to it, particularly in total loss, complex, and small business claims?\n\n8. How is the Claims Office ensuring equity in food loss payments? If changes to Claims Office compensation policy are needed, is the Claims Office committed to updating policy such that claimants are not paid less than they would have previously received, and is the Claims Office committed to updating previously closed claims with the adjusted increased compensation?\n\n9. How is the Claims Office ensuring equity in hourly labor rate reimbursement for repairs?\n\n10. How is the Claims Office working to help claimants understand the review decisions by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)? Does the Claims Office include the SME reports with annotated decisions in Letter of Determination?\n\n11. How is the Claims Office working to reduce the number of separate assessments claimants are required to have on the same property?\n\n12. When will the erosion estimate process be finalized?\n\n13. How is the Claims Office working to ensure that business loss claimants can receive updates and work on their claims from any office location?\n\nThe text of the letter is here.\n\nIn September, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez secured an extension to the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit\u2019s Peak Claims Office to December 20, 2024.\n\nLast year, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez introduced the Hermit\u2019s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation that would extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit\u2019s Peak Claims Office.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T22:07:06Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-delivers-keynote-address-at-veterans-business-summit", "Heinrich Delivers Keynote Address at Veterans Business Summit", "2024-10-30", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOTOS & VIDEOS\n\nALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered a keynote address at the New Mexico Veterans Business Summit highlighting how investments in veteran-owned businesses have grown New Mexico\u2019s economy and created jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.\n\nHeinrich secured $50,000 through the Appropriations process for the New Mexico Veterans Business Advocates Expo to provide New Mexico\u2019s veteran-owned businesses an opportunity to interact with potential partners, customers, and employees, supporting their success and growth.\n\nHeinrich also highlighted his work to expand veterans\u2019 benefits and access to the health care they\u2019ve earned and deserve.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) delivers a keynote address at the New Mexico Veterans Business Summit, October 30, 2024.\n\n\u201cSmall, locally-owned businesses \u2014 including veteran-owned businesses \u2014 are the beating hearts of our communities and backbone of our economy,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cOur veterans leave their military service with unique skills and experience. I was proud to secure $50,000 in the 2024 Appropriations Bills to support the New Mexico Veterans Business Summit that is providing resources to help veteran-owned small businesses and military veterans looking for new career and entrepreneurial opportunities. I remain committed to supporting our state\u2019s veterans and small business owners, lowering costs, growing our economy, and connecting New Mexicans to high-quality careers they can build their families around.\u201d\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) at the New Mexico Veterans Business Summit, October 30, 2024.\n\nHeinrich remains unwavering in his commitment to provide the care and benefits that veterans deserve and have earned.\n\nThis year, the VA has served more veterans than ever before and provided more care and benefits to veterans who were exposed to toxins during their time in the military because of the successful implementation of the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, bipartisan legislation that Heinrich helped lead as then-Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies.\n\nThe PACT Act was signed into law in 2022 and has provided a record expansion of care and benefits for veterans. As a result, more veterans are filing claims and receiving their long overdue earned benefits, including disability compensation and GI Bill benefits.\n\nHeinrich also recently passed legislation to protect veterans\u2019 earned benefits and ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is able to continue to pay disability compensation, surviving spouses and dependent compensation, pension, and education benefits to veterans, including nearly 70,000 New Mexicans.\n\nAdditionally, Heinrich recently announced the Senate Appropriations Committee\u2019s bipartisan, unanimous passage of the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which included $3.2 billion to expand programs providing critical services and housing for veterans and their families. Heinrich also fought to include key language to protect access to abortion for veterans in cases of rape, incest, and when the life of the mother is at risk, but the Committee did not ultimately include the provision.\n\nIn the Fiscal Year 2024 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, Heinrich successfully advocated for major increases in funding to programs that support veterans in New Mexico and throughout the United States. He also successfully included key language to protect access to health care for veterans in New Mexico and nationally. Specifically, Heinrich secured increased funding to provide access to care for rural and Tribal veterans, transportation for rural veterans, rural health care for veterans, assistance to homeless veterans, construct state extended care facilities, improve veteran access to Suicide Prevention Coordinators, increase research on prosthetics and limb loss, and build on the work of neurology-related Centers of Excellence.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-leger-fernandez-highlight-over-22-million-to-build-a-new-terminal-at-clovis-regional-airport-participate-in-terminal-groundbreaking-ceremony", "Heinrich, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez Highlight Over $22 Million to Build a New Terminal at Clovis Regional Airport, Participate in Terminal Groundbreaking Ceremony", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOTOS/VIDEOS\n\nCLOVIS, N.M. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) participated in a groundbreaking ceremony to begin construction on a new 21,000 square foot terminal at Clovis Regional Airport (CVN). The new terminal at Clovis Regional Airport is fully funded by a $15.7 million grant and a $3.5 million grant from the Infrastructure Law \u2014 legislation passed by Democrats in the N.M. Congressional Delegation \u2014 and a Heinrich-led $3.5 million Congressionally Directed Spending award that is advancing in the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill that passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee in July.\n\nThese three investments, totaling $22,700,000, are making it possible for Clovis to complete the new terminal.\n\nThe terminal at Clovis Regional Airport will better connect the community, improve travelers\u2019 experiences, create high-quality jobs, and grow local economies across New Mexico.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) speaks at a groundbreaking ceremony to begin construction on a new terminal at Clovis Regional Airport (CVN), October 29, 2024.\n\n\u201cWhen we invest in New Mexico\u2019s airports, we invest in the people who rely on these facilities to do business in our state, create jobs, and contribute to our economy,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI am proud to have secured funding from the Infrastructure Law to fully construct Clovis Regional Airport\u2019s new terminal and I will keep fighting to secure more investments to improve airports all across New Mexico \u2014 improving travelers\u2019 experiences, creating high quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around, and driving our state\u2019s economic growth for the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThanks to our work on the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this $22 million investment will create good jobs, connect families across the region, and drive economic vitality for communities across eastern New Mexico,\" said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cToday\u2019s groundbreaking at the Clovis Regional Airport gets us closer to connecting eastern New Mexico to new economic opportunities and supporting the region\u2019s growth. This new terminal isn\u2019t just about creating a strong foundation for the future of Clovis \u2014 it\u2019s about creating a strong foundation for the future of eastern New Mexico. I also want to thank Senator Heinrich for his leadership as he champions rural projects like this one in the Senate Appropriations Committee.\u201d\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) participate in a groundbreaking ceremony to begin construction on a new terminal at Clovis Regional Airport (CVN), October 29, 2024.\n\nThe Infrastructure Law is delivering billions of dollars in historic infrastructure investments to New Mexico.\n\nThe Infrastructure Law is set to invest $4.3 billion in formula funding alone for at least 337 vital projects in New Mexico. Some of the projects and priorities that have already received federal funding from the Infrastructure Law include:\n\n$1.8 billion for New Mexico\u2019s roads and bridges.\n\n$379 million over five years, based on formula funding, for New Mexico\u2019s public transit. To date, New Mexico has been allocated $147.2 million to improve public transportation options across the state in Fiscal Year 2022.\n\n$710 million for clean drinking water in New Mexico.\n\n$362.3 million for infrastructure resilience, including $23.4 million through the Army Corps of Engineers for flood mitigation in New Mexico.\n\n$160 million, the first installment of funding from the Infrastructure Law, to support the completion of the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System pipeline in Eastern New Mexico.\n\nHeinrich and Luj\u00e1n participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the next portion of the Eastern N.M. Rural Water System in August.\n\n$3 billion across Indian Country to help Tribes deploy broadband infrastructure.\n\n$52.4 million for capping orphaned oil and gas wells and reclaiming abandoned mine lands and $20.7 million has been allocated to cleaning up Superfund and Brownfield sites across New Mexico.\n\n$38 million over five years, based on formula funding, to support the expansion of an EV charging network in the state.\n\n$74.9 million for clean energy, energy efficiency, and power in New Mexico.\n\n$50 million for airports across New Mexico.\n\n$33 million for clean and low emission buses in New Mexico.\n\nThe Infrastructure Law is also helping 173,000 New Mexico households save on broadband. For eligibility on internet programs, visit GetInternet.gov.\n\nFor more information, click here to see a map of funding and announced projects in New Mexico through the Infrastructure Law.\n\nFind a fact sheet of the investments New Mexico has received through the Infrastructure Law here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-welcomes-over-4-million-from-the-infrastructure-law-to-enhance-safety-reduce-delays-at-railway-crossings-and-grow-local-economies-in-clovis-and-san-juan-county", "N.M. Delegation Welcomes Over $4 Million From the Infrastructure Law to Enhance Safety, Reduce Delays at Railway Crossings, and Grow Local Economies in Clovis and San Juan County", "2024-10-29", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) welcomed a combined $4,570,920 for two projects in New Mexico from the U.S. Department of Transportation to strengthen the nation\u2019s supply chain, reduce costs, and grow New Mexico\u2019s economy.\n\n$4,000,000 will help San Juan County and the Navajo Nation complete the planning for a proposed freight rail line connecting Farmington and Gallup.\n\n$570,920 will help the City of Clovis enhance safety and reduce traffic delays at two railway crossings.\n\n\u201cThanks to our Infrastructure Law, we\u2019re delivering the funds needed to kick-start planning for a freight rail line from Farmington to Gallup and improve railway crossings in Clovis. Combined, these investments will strengthen our nation\u2019s supply chain, grow local economies, lower transportation costs, create high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around, and improve safety for our communities,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to welcome these federal investments, and I remain committed to securing more investments to connect rural communities to the abundant opportunities ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cAcross our state, New Mexicans rely daily on our railways for travel and to keep our economy running,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cThanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this $4.5+ million in federal funding will deliver much-needed railway safety enhancements in Clovis and help construct a new rail line within the Navajo Nation to expand regional rail service in Northwestern New Mexico. I\u2019m proud to welcome these two grants that will both boost railway service and drive economic development for Clovis, the Navajo Nation, and their surrounding communities. I will continue to fight to bring federal dollars home to New Mexico to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of passenger and freight rail.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery time I go to the Four Corners, local leaders emphasize the importance of connecting the region with rail. The Four Corners area is a major economic center of our state, and the funding we\u2019re announcing today is the beginning of our work to make sure our rail infrastructure is ready to meet that potential across San Juan and McKinley Counties,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cI am happy that this funding also includes improvements to safety and efficiency of freight in Clovis. With the support of the CRISI program, we can begin the critical work needed to build stronger connections and drive growth in rural New Mexico.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am thrilled about the recent allocation of two significant federal grants from the Federal Railroad Administration\u2019s CRISI program, which will greatly enhance rail safety and connectivity in New Mexico,\u201d said Stansbury. \u201cThese two grants reflect our commitment to investing in infrastructure prioritizing safety and economic growth. I am grateful for the support from the Federal Railroad Administration and look forward to seeing these projects come to fruition as we work together to build a safer New Mexico!\u201d\n\n\"Federal investments like this bring vital safety and economic benefits to communities across New Mexico. With this funding, we\u2019re improving railway safety, cutting down delays, and connecting New Mexicans to opportunities that drive economic growth and quality jobs,\" said Vasquez. \"Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are building a stronger, safer transportation network. I\u2019m proud to welcome this funding to bring more jobs and opportunities to our rural communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe award of grant funding takes a prospective freight rail line study further than any study in the past and is further proof of the importance of collaboration between tribal, local, state, and federal partners to open doors to economic opportunities. We are appreciative of assistance from New Mexico\u2019s federal delegation and excited for future economic growth opportunities in San Juan County and the Four Corners region,\u201d said John T. Beckstead, San Juan County Commission Chairman.\n\n\"The Federal CRISI Grant brings San Juan County and the City of Farmington one step closer to having competitive transportation and economic development. This is an important step in growing our regional economy,\u201d said Tim Gibbs, Four Corner Economic Development CEO.\n\nThe grants are awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration\u2019s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail. The CRISI Program received significant, additional investments from the Infrastructure Law \u2013 legislation passed by Democrats in the N.M. Congressional Delegation.\n\nThe N.M. Delegation sent a letter of support to the U.S. Department of Transportation supporting the grant for San Juan County that is being announced today. This grant will prepare the Four Corners Rail Project for final design proposals and planning.\n\nIn May 2020, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n wrote a letter of support for San Juan County\u2019s application for a Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant, which applicants of the CRISI Program are required to be approved for.\n\nMembers of the N.M. Delegation sent a letter of support to the U.S. Department of Transportation urging the support of the grant for the City of Clovis that is being announced today. This grant will enhance safety and reduce traffic delays at two railway crossings including modifications to the Norris Street railroad crossing and construction of a new grade-separated crossing at MLK Jr. Boulevard.\n\nBelow is a breakdown of the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration funding:\n\nFor more information from San Juan County on the proposed Four Corners Rail Project, please click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-leger-fernandez-welcome-over-1-million-to-break-down-barriers-to-home-ownership-for-new-mexicans-living-with-hiv/aids", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez Welcome Over $1 Million to Break Down Barriers to Home Ownership for New Mexicans Living With HIV/AIDS", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "SANTA FE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.) welcomed $1,345,637 for the Santa Fe Housing Trust to provide more pathways to first-time home ownership to 2,050 New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS.\n\nThis grant is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development\u2019s Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Program. The HOPWA program is the only federal program dedicated to the housing needs of people living with HIV/AIDS and their families.\n\nDuring the domestic HIV/AIDS crisis, individuals surviving with HIV/AIDS faced barriers to employment and incurred expensive medical costs. This trend continues and disproportionately impact low-income individuals who are struggling to afford stable housing even before diagnosis and treatment. The financial and health vulnerabilities associated with HIV/AIDS often result in housing instability and homelessness. Research shows individuals living with HIV/AIDS who have a stable place to live have more positive health outcomes and spend less time in hospitals or emergency rooms.\n\n\u201cWe should be making it easier for all New Mexicans to become homeowners. Full stop,\u201dsaid Heinrich. \u201cThis funding will break down barriers for individuals living with HIV/AIDS to become first-time home buyers, ensuring more folks have a safe and secure place to call home. I\u2019ll keep fighting to increase our housing stock, bring down the cost of housing, and ensure all people in our state have a shot at achieving the dream of home ownership.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo New Mexican should ever worry about whether they will have a safe place to sleep at night,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cI\u2019m proud to welcome more than $1.3 million in federal funding that will help allow New Mexicans living with HIV/AIDS to secure permanent, stable housing so they can focus on their health. I will continue to fight to expand housing options for all New Mexicans.\u201d\n\n\u201cHome is more than a roof you live under, it provides safety and stability,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cAs we work to tackle the home affordability crisis across the country, we must use all tools available to help. We know one of the biggest hurdles homebuyers face is saving up for a downpayment. This $1.3 million for the Santa Fe Housing Trust will provide funding for important services like down payment reduction assistance for first-time home buyers living with HIV/AIDS. I\u2019ll continue to fight for funding that helps our communities through legislation like my Home of Your Own Act which would also help first time homebuyers with down payment assistance.\u201d\n\nBackground\n\nHeinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Leger Fern\u00e1ndez are tireless advocates for lowering housing costs, increasing housing supply, and expanding housing affordability and access for families in New Mexico.\n\nThrough Heinrich\u2019s role as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, particularly through his seat as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, Heinrich has worked to deliver millions of dollars to New Mexico for renters and home buyers.\n\nMost recently, Heinrich secured Committee support for the following investments in Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Appropriations:\n\n$3 million for Homewise in the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Transporation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill, which will help moderate-income, first-time homebuyers in New Mexico purchase entry-level homes.\n\n$1.6 billion for rental assistance in the FY25 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill to ensure Americans living in rural areas have access to safe and affordable housing. Heinrich\u2019s legislation included an increase of up to $1 billion in Single Family Direct Loans to help more low-income families and first-time home buyers get mortgages.\n\n$3.2 billion in the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill to expand programs providing critical services and housing for veterans and their families.\n\nIn Heinrich\u2019s Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, he secured $1.6 billion for rental assistance, an increase of $120 million over Fiscal Year 2023. Heinrich\u2019s 2024 Appropriations Bill also provided for a pilot program that decoupled rental assistance from Multifamily Direct Loans, preventing thousands of low-income families from losing rental assistance.\n\nAdditionally, Heinrich secured $1,100,000 through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity to develop land into a mixed-income development focused on building 25 to 30 housing units for working families. In total, Heinrich has secured $14,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for northern New Mexico to address the housing shortage.\n\nIn May, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed $11.8 million from the U.S. Department of Housing to support public housing authorities build, renovate, and modernize public housing across New Mexico.\n\nIn February, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, Leger Fern\u00e1ndez, and the N.M. Congressional Delegation welcomed more than $16 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development\u2019s (HUD) Continuum of Care program to support New Mexico projects that provide housing assistance and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness.\n\nLuj\u00e1n has also been a champion of expanding access to affordable housing for all New Mexicans. Earlier this year, Luj\u00e1n partnered with Heinrich to push for more funding for Tribal housing programs.\n\nThrough Luj\u00e1n\u2019s work on the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Luj\u00e1n has also fought to secure critical support for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.\n\nLuj\u00e1n introduced the bipartisan Ryan White PrEP Availability Act, bipartisan legislation to increase flexibility for Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program clinics, which provide care and treatment for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.\n\nIn the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Appropriations package, Luj\u00e1n secured $300,000 to advance the goals of his Oral Health Literacy Act and support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.\n\nHeinrich and Luj\u00e1n have also introduced a number of bills to tackle New Mexico\u2019s housing crisis.\n\nLast month, Heinrich introduced the New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation that would provide tax credits to incentivize new investments and additional resources for single-family home construction and renovations for working families. The bill would address the lack of housing inventory for individuals and families whose incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI), particularly including in areas where middle-income families have historically been priced out. In Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example, this added housing inventory would benefit families with annual incomes of up to $103,680, $109,800, and $78,960, respectively.\n\nAt a recent roundtable conversation with local educators in Albuquerque, Heinrich announced his Educator Down Payment Assistance Act, legislation designed to help more educators and school staff in New Mexico purchase a home and keep teachers in the communities where they teach.\n\nIn March, Heinrich co-led the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Act, legislation to support homeownership among lower- and middle-income Americans by establishing a refundable tax credit worth up to 10 percent of a home\u2019s purchase price \u2013 up to a maximum of $15,000 \u2013 for first-time homebuyers.\n\nHeinrich also cosponsored the Housing for All Act, comprehensive legislation to expand access to affordable housing in New Mexico and supporting those experiencing homelessness. The bill would invest in proven solutions and provide a historic level of federal funding for strategic, existing programs to keep people housed and reduce homelessness, as well as for innovative, locally developed solutions to help vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.\n\nLast year, Heinrich introduced the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act, which would help build over 14,000 new affordable homes in New Mexico over the next decade, generating over $2.5 billion in wages and business income. The legislation would support the financing of more affordable housing by expanding and strengthening the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, our country\u2019s most successful affordable housing program.\n\nHeinrich also introduced the Delivering Essential Protection, Opportunity, and Security for Tenants (DEPOSIT) Act, which would help an estimated 12,000 New Mexican families access rental housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program to pay security deposits and get into a rental home. Luj\u00e1n is also a cosponsor of this bill.\n\nIn January, as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich released a report highlighting policy approaches to increasing housing supply in America. Heinrich also chaired a JEC hearing on the report. His full opening statement can be found here.\n\nLuj\u00e1n introduced the bipartisan Homes for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder Act of 2023 or the HELPER Act of 2023, legislation that would establish a new home loan program under the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to make homeownership more accessible to teachers and first responders.\n\nLuj\u00e1n also introduced the bipartisan Reforming Disaster Recovery Act, legislation that would establish a community disaster assistance fund for housing.\n\nAdditionally, Luj\u00e1n introduced bipartisan legislation to expand Native American housing programs that builds on successful Native American housing programs at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) authorized by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA).\n\nLuj\u00e1n and Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Native American Rural Homeownership Improvement Act of 2021, legislation that would expand an existing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) pilot program and deploy loans to eligible Native borrowers.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-congressional-delegation-calls-on-president-biden-to-grant-states-major-disaster-declaration-request-in-response-to-floods-in-roswell-and-chaves-county", "N.M. Congressional Delegation Calls on President Biden to Grant State's Major Disaster Declaration Request in Response to Floods in Roswell and Chaves County", "2024-10-28", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ROSWELL, N.M. \u2013 After record rainfall and destructive floods in Roswell and Chaves County, N.M. over the weekend of Oct. 19, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are calling on President Joe Biden to approve a Major Disaster Declaration request from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.\n\nIn a letter to President Biden, New Mexico\u2019s Congressional Delegation wrote: \u201cWe respectfully request that you [President Biden] take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the unprecedented flooding that occurred in Chaves County starting on October 19, 2024.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers added, \u201cDue to the life and death nature of this crisis, we urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration. It is imperative that the federal government provides full support to New Mexican communities to respond and recover from the devastation caused by this flooding. Thank you for your consideration of this important request.\u201d\n\nA Major Disaster Declaration would open up access to Public Assistance and Individual Assistance funds from Federal Emergency Response Agency (FEMA) and disaster loans from the Small Business Administration. Public Assistance supports the restoration and reconstruction of public infrastructure and lands. Individual Assistance supports families from losses suffered due to the floods.\n\nThe New Mexico Delegation is committed to passing legislation to allocate emergency, supplemental disaster funding to replenish the disaster relief fund at FEMA, the disaster assistance loan program at the Small Business Administration (SBA), and other agency emergency programs that provide resources to help communities hit by devastating disasters recover and rebuild.\n\nRead the full text of the letter below or by clicking here.\n\nDear President Biden,\n\nWe respectfully request that you take immediate action on the recent request for a major disaster declaration from the State of New Mexico in response to the unprecedented flooding that occurred in Chaves County on October 19, 2024. The State is requesting Public Assistance, Categories A through G, including Direct Federal Assistance, and Individual Assistance for Chaves County. The State is requesting all parts of Individual Assistance, including Mass Care/Emergency Assistance, Individuals and Households Program, Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance, Disaster Case Management, Crisis Counseling, Disaster Legal Services, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Serious Needs Assistance, Transitional Sheltering Assistance, and Displacement Assistance. The State is also requesting Hazard Mitigation statewide, as facilitated through the state of New Mexico\u2019s Natural Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan, which has been approved by FEMA through September 12, 2027. We ask that you expeditiously grant the major disaster declaration and make this federal assistance available as soon as possible for the State and Chaves County to have all the resources they need to recover from the devastation of this flooding.\n\nFrom October 18 to 21, 2024, a slow-moving low-pressure system became stationary over Chaves County and struck the area with 5.79 inches of rain \u2013 half a year's worth of precipitation in just one event \u2013 devastating the city of Roswell and multiple downstream communities with severe flash flooding. The rapid onset of severe weather gave residents only minutes to evacuate their homes, and more than 300 people required rescue from the floods by active responders, including the New Mexico National Guard, which activated the night of October 19, 2024.\n\nThis flooding has caused extensive damage to public infrastructure, homes, and businesses throughout Chaves County. The joint FEMA and state initial damage assessment has calculated that as many as 723 homes and 200 businesses have could have been damaged as a result of the flooding. Additionally, the flooding caused dozens of vehicles to wash out into bridges, crippled local governments\u2019 response capacity due to the loss of multiple vehicles and IT equipment, and the flood water itself filled more than thirty-two public buildings. The current assessed damage from these public facility impacts is $51.9 million.\n\nDue to the life and death nature of this crisis, we urge you to act without delay and approve the State of New Mexico\u2019s request for a major disaster declaration. It is imperative that the federal government provides full support to New Mexican communities to respond and recover from the devastation caused by this flooding. Thank you for your consideration of this important request.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/nm-delegation-files-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-affirm-federal-law", "N.M. Delegation Files Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that Federal Law Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Care, Including Abortion", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), along with U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary \u201cstabilizing treatment\u201d to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which includes abortion care.\n\nAfter the Dobbs decision in 2022, an anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect, making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient\u2019s pregnancy unless it is \u201cnecessary\u201d to prevent the patient\u2019s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state\u2019s law is preempted by existing federal law in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the \u201cnecessary stabilizing treatment\u201d for a patient\u2019s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.\n\nIn March, 258 lawmakers, including the N.M. Congressional Delegation, filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court\u2019s injunction.\n\nIn their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers state \u201che 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an \u2018emergency medical condition\u2019 is offered stabilizing treatment.\u201d The lawmakers continued in their amicus brief, \u201cCongress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide \u2018such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.\u2019\u2026 That text\u2014untouched by Congress for the past three decades\u2014makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the \u2018ecessary stabilizing treatment\u2019 for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it. Yet Idaho has made providing that care a felony, in direct contravention of EMTALA\u2019s mandate.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers point to numerous reports of OB/GYNs leaving Idaho en masse since the state\u2019s abortion ban went into effect \u2014 Idaho has since lost fifty-five percent of its maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and three rural hospitals have shut down maternity services altogether.\n\n\u201cThese are not hypothetical scenarios. Because Idaho\u2019s abortion ban contains no clear exceptions for the \u201cemergency medical conditions\u201d covered by EMTALA, it forces physicians to wait until their patients are on the verge of death before providing abortion care. The result in other states with similar laws has been \u2018significant maternal morbidity,\u2019\u201d wrote the lawmakers, pointing to harrowing reports of pregnant women with severe health complications being denied necessary abortion care. The lawmakers\u2019 brief also counters an argument from Idaho and its amici that the Supremacy Clause does not apply in this case because EMTALA was passed using Spending Clause authority, and therefore acts only as a condition on Medicare funding. The lawmakers make clear that all laws passed by Congress are entitled to preemption \u2014 regardless of their source of constitutional authority \u2014 and states cannot pass laws that make it impossible for private parties to accept federal funding, inhibiting the purpose of the federal law.\n\n\u201cEMTALA requires abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with an emergency medical condition, Idaho\u2019s near-total abortion ban is preempted to the extent that it prevents doctors from providing that care,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cThis Court should reject Appellants\u2019 novel theory that EMTALA is not entitled to preemptive effect because it was enacted pursuant to Congress\u2019s spending power. Under the Supremacy Clause, all \u2018the constitutional laws enacted by congress,\u2019 constitute \u2018the supreme Law of the Land,\u2019. As the Supreme Court has repeatedly held, the principle of federal supremacy applies to laws passed pursuant to Congress\u2019s spending authority no less than it does to laws effectuating other enumerated powers.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn sum, EMTALA plainly requires hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide abortion care when, in a doctor\u2019s medical judgment, it constitutes the \u2018ecessary stabilizing treatment\u2019 for a patient\u2019s \u2018emergency medical condition.\u2019\u201d\n\nThe amicus brief was led by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and U.S. Representatives Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Richard Neal (D-Mass.), Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.).\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansburys-statement-president-bidens-historic-apology-indigenous-people", "Rep. Stansbury\u2019s Statement on President Biden\u2019s Historic Apology to Indigenous People", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after President Joe Biden\u2019s historic apology to Indigenous people for the federal government\u2019s Indian Boarding School Policies:\n\n\u201cIndigenous history is American history. Today, the U.S. government took a necessary and long overdue step in acknowledging an often dark and painful past with our Indigenous nations. I commend and am grateful for President Biden and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland\u2019s ongoing work to right the wrongs of the past and apologize for the suffering caused by American Indian boarding schools.\n\n\u201cIndigenous peoples have faced systemic violence and discrimination as a result of U.S. policies for generations\u2014yet remain strong and resilient. President Biden\u2019s commitment to addressing these historical injustices is a moral imperative that demands sustained action and collaboration.\n\n\u201cThis apology is a critical step in reconciling with that past while continuing to bend the arc of the moral universe towards justice here in the United States.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-administrations-indian-boarding-school-apology", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on the Administration\u2019s Indian Boarding School Apology", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 On Friday, October 25, 2024, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) released this statement following President Biden\u2019s apology for the atrocities that occurred during the Indian boarding school era:\n\n\u201cDuring the Indian boarding school era, more than 95 indigenous children died at schools across New Mexico and thousands of other children were taken from their families. Today\u2019s formal apology on behalf of the United States government is an important step towards healing these wounds and providing acknowledgement to survivors and their families. We must continue to support our Tribal communities in their efforts to heal and recover.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-announces-over-3-million-for-tribal-communities-to-address-opioid-use-disorder", "N.M. Delegation Announces Over $3 Million for Tribal Communities to Address Opioid Use Disorder", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are announcing $3,068,909 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to Tribal communities to serve individuals with opioid use disorder and co-occurring substance use disorders by funding culturally specific and evidence-based treatment, including medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder (MOUD). These HHS Tribal Opioid Response Grants are being awarded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration(SAMHSA).\n\n\u201cTackling the opioid crisis with the urgency it demands means expanding our approach. That includes everything from providing improved access to the lifesaving medication used to treat opioid use disorder to empowering local communities to develop treatment programs that are grounded in their distinct experiences and cultures. I\u2019m proud to welcome over $3 million for Tribal communities to do exactly that,\" said Heinrich. \u201cI won\u2019t stop fighting to eliminate barriers to lifesaving medication and help New Mexicans get the care they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cFar too many across our Tribal lands have seen firsthand how the opioid epidemic has devastated our communities,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n, a member of the Indian Affairs and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committees. \u201cThis $3+ million in federal funding will deliver critical treatments and medications to address opioid use disorder in our Tribal communities. Throughout my time in Congress, I have secured millions to expand opioid use disorder treatments, introduced bipartisan legislation to increase investments in substance misuse prevention, and called for an increase in funding in our nation\u2019s response to the opioid use disorder epidemic. I am proud to welcome this funding alongside our Congressional delegation and will keep fighting to expand addiction treatment services and protect the health of our Tribal brothers and sisters.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor far too long, opioid addiction has ravaged our Tribal communities, and the need for culturally specific treatments is critical,\u201d said Leger Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cThis funding will help provide life-saving treatment, tailored to the needs of Native communities, so that we can address the opioid crisis head-on. By combining evidence-based practices with the cultural knowledge of our Tribes, we can offer real hope and healing. I will continue to fight for more resources and support to make sure every New Mexican has access to the care they need to recover and thrive.\u201d\n\n\u201cCulturally informed care is vital to addressing the opioid crisis in every community that is suffering,\u201d said Stansbury. \u201cThis $3 million investment will help Tribal communities take care as they see fit, as they know what is best for their communities. I will continue to fight for more funding and tools to solve this crisis so New Mexicans can not only recover from addiction but thrive in life.\u201d\n\n\u201cNew Mexico\u2019s Tribes and Pueblos have long faced significant challenges in combating the opioid crisis. I\u2019m proud to welcome these funds to provide critical resources to help address opioid addiction head-on,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cSupporting culturally specific and evidence-based treatments ensures that we\u2019re not only tackling the crisis but also providing Indian Country with the tools they need to better support recovery. I\u2019m committed to securing more funding and resources to combat this crisis and save lives.\u201d\n\nRecipient\n\nAward Amount\n\nAlbuquerque Area Indian Health\n\n$1,478,168\n\nPueblo of Pojoaque\n\n$250,000\n\nFive Sandoval Indian Pueblos, Inc.\n\n$250,000\n\nSanto Domingo Tribe\n\n$295,107\n\nOhkay Owingeh\n\n$250,000\n\nNambe Pueblo Governor\u2019s Office\n\n$295,634\n\nTaos Pueblo\n\n$250,000\n\nThe N.M. Delegation has continuously worked to make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available.\n\nThis month, Heinrich introduced the Broadening Utilization of Proven and Effective Treatment for Recovery Act, or BUPE for Recovery Act, legislation to increase access to buprenorphine \u2014 a lifesaving drug used to treat opioid use disorder \u2014 by removing barriers providers and patients face when trying to access the medication. The BUPE for Recovery Act temporarily exempts buprenorphine from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration\u2019s (DEA) Suspicious Orders Report System (SORS) requirements during the opioid public health emergency. SORS reporting requirements have led to an uncertainty among pharmacies and distributors to stock and dispense buprenorphine, which can prevent individuals suffering from opioid use disorder from receiving timely and effective treatment. This legislation will mitigate the treatment gap created by stringent SORS reporting requirements, reducing overdose deaths, saving lives, and improving public health outcomes.\n\nIn the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS)Appropriations Bill, Heinrich successfully included language directing the DEA to take further action to remove barriers to access for opioid use disorder medications such as buprenorphine. The inclusion of this language will assist local medical and mental health providers and make medications, including buprenorphine, more accessible to New Mexicans.\n\nFind an extensive list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to tackle the fentanyl crisis and make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-files-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-to-affirm-that-federal-law-requires-hospitals-to-provide-emergency-care-including-abortion", "N.M. Delegation Files Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that Federal Law Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Care, Including Abortion", "2024-10-25", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "After the Supreme Court dismissed Idaho v. United States, returning it to the Ninth Circuit Court, 259 Members of Congress ask the Ninth Circuit to affirm that federal law ensures abortion care qualifies as \u201cemergency stabilizing care\u201d under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), and hospitals participating in Medicare must provide \u201cemergency stabilizing treatment\u201d to patients, including abortion care, when necessary.\n\nThe N.M Delegation joins the brief as New Mexico\u2019s highly impacted health system continues to serve patients from neighboring states with restrictions on reproductive health care.\n\n\u201cIn this case, respecting the supremacy of federal law is about more than just protecting our system of government; it is about protecting people\u2019s lives.\u201d\n\nWASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary \u201cstabilizing treatment\u201d to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which includes abortion care.\n\nAfter the Dobbs decision in 2022, an anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect, making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient\u2019s pregnancy unless it is \u201cnecessary\u201d to prevent the patient\u2019s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state\u2019s law is preempted by existing federal law in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the \u201cnecessary stabilizing treatment\u201d for a patient\u2019s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.\n\nIn March, 258 lawmakers, including the N.M. Congressional Delegation, filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court\u2019s injunction.\n\nIn their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers state \u201che 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an \u2018emergency medical condition\u2019 is offered stabilizing treatment.\u201d The lawmakers continued in their amicus brief, \u201cCongress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide \u2018such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.\u2019\u2026 That text\u2014untouched by Congress for the past three decades\u2014makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the \u2018ecessary stabilizing treatment\u2019 for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it. Yet Idaho has made providing that care a felony, in direct contravention of EMTALA\u2019s mandate.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers point to numerous reports of OB/GYNs leaving Idaho en masse since the state\u2019s abortion ban went into effect \u2014 Idaho has since lost fifty-five percent of its maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and three rural hospitals have shut down maternity services altogether.\n\n\u201cThese are not hypothetical scenarios. Because Idaho\u2019s abortion ban contains no clear exceptions for the \u201cemergency medical conditions\u201d covered by EMTALA, it forces physicians to wait until their patients are on the verge of death before providing abortion care. The result in other states with similar laws has been \u2018significant maternal morbidity,\u2019\u201d wrote the lawmakers, pointing to harrowing reports of pregnant women with severe health complications being denied necessary abortion care. The lawmakers\u2019 brief also counters an argument from Idaho and its amici that the Supremacy Clause does not apply in this case because EMTALA was passed using Spending Clause authority, and therefore acts only as a condition on Medicare funding. The lawmakers make clear that alllaws passed by Congress are entitled to preemption \u2014 regardless of their source of constitutional authority \u2014 and states cannot pass laws that make it impossible for private parties to accept federal funding, inhibiting the purpose of the federal law.\n\n\u201cEMTALA requires abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with an emergency medical condition, Idaho\u2019s near-total abortion ban is preempted to the extent that it prevents doctors from providing that care,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cThis Court should reject Appellants\u2019 novel theory that EMTALA is not entitled to preemptive effect because it was enacted pursuant to Congress\u2019s spending power. Under the Supremacy Clause, all\u2018the constitutional laws enacted by congress,\u2019 constitute \u2018the supreme Law of the Land,\u2019. As the Supreme Court has repeatedly held, the principle of federal supremacy applies to laws passed pursuant to Congress\u2019s spending authority no less than it does to laws effectuating other enumerated powers.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn sum, EMTALA plainly requires hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide abortion care when, in a doctor\u2019s medical judgment, it constitutes the \u2018ecessary stabilizing treatment\u2019 for a patient\u2019s \u2018emergency medical condition.\u2019\u201d\n\nThe amicus brief was led by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and U.S. Representatives Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Richard Neal (D-Mass.), Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.).\n\nThe lawmakers\u2019 amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-labor-caucus-urges-amazon-respect-its-employees-rights-and", "Rep. Stansbury, Labor Caucus Urges Amazon to Respect its Employees\u2019 Rights and Requests Information From the Company About its Anti-Union Activities", "2024-10-24", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) signed a letter led by Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Mark Pocan (D-WI), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), and Debbie Dingell (D-MI) calling on Amazon to respect its employees\u2019 rights and requesting information from the company about its anti-union activities.\n\n\u201cWorkers have the right to unionize under the law, period,\u201d Stansbury said. \u201cYet, across the country, there have been complaints that Amazon is engaging in union-busting activity and putting their worker\u2019s health and safety at risk. This is fully unacceptable. That\u2019s why I signed this letter with 115 of my colleagues\u2014because our workers deserve fair treatment and the opportunity to bargain for better pay and benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe have heard concerns from our constituents who are scared to exercise these rights due to fear of reprisal from their employer, and anti-union activities from an employer as prominent as Amazon exacerbate those concerns,\u201d the members wrote in a letter to Amazon Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy. \u201cTherefore, in accordance with the NLRA, we urge Amazon to refrain from engaging in intimidation, retaliation, and other forms of illegal interference and to allow workers to decide on their own, whether they should join a union.\u201d\n\nUnfortunately, Amazon has been found to have violated federal labor law on numerous occasions, including public anti-union comments from Andy Jassy. This letter comes amidst a recent wave of worker organizing activity at Amazon locations around the county, and, to ensure that workers\u2019 rights are respected going forward, the Members requested information from the company and asked if it will commit to following applicable federal and state labor laws.\n\nThere are 3 Amazon fulfillment and sortation centers, 6 delivery stations, and 3 Whole Foods Market locations in New Mexico that employ more than 4,000 people.\n\nA full copy of the letter can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/affordable-housing-boost-albuquerque-rep-gabe-vasquez-homewise-break-ground-72", "Affordable Housing Boost in Albuquerque: Rep. Gabe Vasquez, Homewise Break Ground on 72 New Townhomes", "2024-10-24", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 On Thursday, October 24, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) celebrated the groundbreaking of Homewise Inc.\u2019s first all-electric development project in Albuquerque. The project, consisting of 72 townhomes, marks a significant step forward in expanding affordable, high-quality housing opportunities for New Mexicans.\n\n\u201cHousing is a human right, and when we invest in homes, we invest in the health, well-being and future of our communities,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cHomewise\u2019s project is about more than just putting roofs over people\u2019s heads\u2014it\u2019s about creating stability, dignity and a sense of belonging. Every family deserves that.\u201d\n\nThe groundbreaking celebrates the construction of 72 townhomes, including 55 three-bedroom and 17 two-bedroom units. The project will meet the needs of first-time homebuyers with additional subsidies to assist low- and moderate-income families along with units at market-rate. The development also benefits from $500,000 in down payment assistance funding from the Mortgage Finance Authority and $550,000 in state capital outlay for infrastructure.\n\n\u201cAt Homewise, we\u2019ve seen first-hand that homeownership is the foundation for building stronger communities,\u201d said Mike Loftin, CEO of Homewise. \u201cWe are proud to partner with U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez to bring much-needed housing options to Albuquerque and support more families in achieving the dream of owning a home.\u201d\n\nHomewise, a nonprofit organization focused on housing access, is a leader in affordable housing initiatives across New Mexico, primarily in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Their services include homebuyer education, mortgage lending and financial coaching, all aimed at helping families achieve homeownership. The townhomes are expected to begin construction by early summer 2025.\n\n\u201cWe are excited to help individuals and families become homeowners by building new high quality starter homes that help meet the deep need for homeownership opportunities in Albuquerque,\u201d said Lisa Huval, Senior Director of Real Estate Development at Homewise.\n\nVasquez also highlighted his efforts in Congress to address housing affordability. He is a champion of the HOME Act, which stops corporate landlords from price-gouging and taking advantage of renters and first-time buyers. He is also a leader in advancing the Family Stability and Opportunity Vouchers Act, which would create 250,000 new housing vouchers to help low-income families move to communities with better schools and opportunities. Vasquez is committed to working to create more affordable housing opportunities for hard-working New Mexicans.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-cosponsors-legislation-to-protect-medicare-and-social-security-for-new-mexicos-seniors", "Heinrich Cosponsors Legislation to Protect Medicare and Social Security for New Mexico\u2019s Seniors", "2024-10-23", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) cosponsored the Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act, legislation that will ensure the long-term solvency of Medicare and Social Security by reversing inequities in the tax system so that high earners contribute a fairer share.\n\n\u201cMedicare and Social Security are benefits that New Mexicans have earned over a lifetime of hard work. I'm proud to support this legislation to protect these bedrock programs for New Mexicans by making the ultrawealthy pay their fair share,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\nNearly 40% of seniors rely on Social Security for the majority of their incomes \u2013 benefits they have earned that let them retire with dignity. Medicare protects its over 60 million beneficiaries, one in five of whom have less than $15,000 in savings, from potentially catastrophic health care costs.\n\nDespite their bedrock importance, these programs are both at risk of not being able to fully pay out benefits within the next 15 years. Without new revenue, the Hospital Insurance Trust Fund and the Old Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund are expected to become insolvent in 2028 and 2033, respectively.\n\nThe Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act will increase funding for the Social Security and Medicare trust funds by extending the payroll tax on wages, self-employment income, and investment income to taxpayers making over $400,000. The legislation also applies a payroll tax on the pass-through business income, like hedge funds and private equity firms, of taxpayers earning more than $400,000, which will eliminate the classification of earned income as distributed business profits that is currently a major loophole. By applying these two provisions, we can extend Social Security solvency indefinitely and extend Medicare solvency by an estimated 20 years.\n\nThe Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act is led by U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). Alongside Heinrich, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn). The bill is led in the House by U.S. Representative Brendan F. Boyle (D-Pa.).\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the Alliance for Retired Americans; American Federation of Government Employees; American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations; American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees; American Federation of Teachers; Americans for Tax Fairness; Center for Medicare Advocacy; Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget; Communications Workers of America; Doctors for America; Families USA; Groundwork Collaborative; International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers; Main Street Alliance; Mary's Center; National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare; National Council on Aging; National Education Association; NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice; People's Action; Public Citizen; Revolving Door Project; Social Security Works; and the Teamsters.\n\nA one-page summary is here.\n\nThe text of the bill is here.\n\nBackground\n\nHeinrich fought hard to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, historic legislation that lowers health care and prescription drug costs for working families.\n\nThis year, the Inflation Reduction Act began capping out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs at an estimated $3,300, providing substantial relief for individuals facing high medication expenses. This new Medicare drug cap comes in tandem with several other major healthcare provisions Heinrich helped secure, including free vaccines for seniors and a $35 insulin cap for those on Medicare.\n\nLast year, the White House announced 48 Medicare Part B drugs that raised their prices faster than inflation, and some drug companies raised prices of certain medications faster than inflation for every quarter in 2023. The IRA provisions Heinrich helped deliver will now require these companies to pay rebates back to Medicare, saving seniors who take these drugs between $1 and $2,786 per dose, depending on their medication.\n\nThe IRA also reduced the cost of marketplace health insurance premiums by an average of hundreds of dollars per person, for roughly 40,000 New Mexicans.\n\nA longer list of provisions Heinrich helped to secure in the Inflation Reduction Act can be found here.\n\nHeinrich introduced the Strengthening Medicare and Reducing Taxpayer (SMART) Prices Act, legislation that builds on a provision that was included in the Inflation Reduction Act to empower Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time. Specifically, the bill would allow prescription drugs and biologics to be eligible for negotiation five years after approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) \u2014 increasing the overall amount by which Medicare can lower prices through negotiation. Additionally, the SMART Prices Act would lower Medicare Part B drug prices through negotiation two years earlier than under current law, and increase the overall number of drugs that the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) can negotiate starting in 2026.\n\nAdditionally, Heinrich is a cosponsor of the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Transparency Act, legislation that bans deceptive unfair pricing schemes, prohibits arbitrary clawbacks of payments made to pharmacies, and requires Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to report to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) how much money they make through spread pricing and pharmacy fees.\n\nHeinrich also cosponsored the COLAs Don\u2019t Count Act, legislation to exempt annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) from impacting the benefits of those who utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food assistance. This would help ensure participants of SNAP are not losing benefits due to the added costs of inflation and allow families to keep food on the table.\n\nHeinrich recently secured committee passage of his Fiscal Year 2025 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, legislation that delivers critical new resources to fully fund WIC and ensure all eligible women, infants, and children can get the nutrition they need. It also protects vital nutrition assistance programs for families across the country.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/usda-heeds-rep-gabe-vasquezs-call-protect-wildlife-and-support-private", "USDA Heeds Rep. Gabe Vasquez\u2019s Call to Protect Wildlife and Support Private Landowners", "2024-10-22", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) applauded the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for its new initiative to enhance wildlife habitat connectivity on farms and ranches. This commitment aligns closely with the provisions in his bipartisan Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act. This announcement underscores the importance of collaboration between the USDA and private landowners, a core tenet of Vasquez\u2019s legislation.\n\n\u201cUSDA\u2019s announcement to prioritize habitat connectivity and support private landowners directly aligns with the measures I proposed in my bipartisan Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cI introduced this bill to create meaningful partnerships between conservation efforts and agricultural producers, and I\u2019m proud to see the USDA heeding my call to action. This framework not only protects our vital wildlife corridors but also uplifts those who steward our land.\u201d\n\nUSDA\u2019s new directive includes several key initiatives that echo the goals of Vasquez\u2019s bill, such as enhanced inter-agency coordination to improve communication between USDA and state, Tribal and federal partners. This will facilitate better management of wildlife corridors and animal movement, addressing jurisdictional boundaries that have hindered conservation efforts.\n\nAdditionally, USDA will allow farmers to participate in multiple conservation programs simultaneously, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), without the penalty of losing eligibility. This change will help farmers tackle critical issues like invasive species and erosion while enhancing wildlife habitats.\n\nFurthermore, USDA is providing financial assistance for innovative practices, such as virtual fencing, enabling farmers to implement effective wildlife protection measures. Conventional fencing across the West results in wildlife entanglement, which is often lethal. These efforts align with Vasquez\u2019s commitment to ensuring that agricultural practices are compatible with wildlife conservation, a crucial step for the ecological health of New Mexico and beyond.\n\nVasquez\u2019s bill is endorsed by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Center for Large Landscape Conservation, Montana Wildlife Federation, National Audubon Society, National Cattlemen\u2019s Beef Association, National Parks Conservation Association, National Wildlife Federation, New Mexico Wildlife Federation, North American Grouse Partnership, Pheasants Forever, Public Lands Council, Quail Forever, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Western Landowners Alliance and the Wildlands Network.\n\nThe Habitat Connectivity on Working Lands Act builds on Vasquez\u2019s longtime support for connecting wildlife corridors. In December, Vasquez announced a $480,000 investment for the Mescalero Apache Tribe from the Department of Transportation\u2019s (DOT) new Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program to improve wildlife crossings along US-70.\n\nRecognizing the vital role of working lands and the dedicated farmers and ranchers who steward them, Vasquez is fighting to ensure conservation and agriculture work hand in hand. Vasquez looks forward to working closely with USDA to further these goals and ensure that New Mexico\u2019s natural resources are preserved for future generations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-colleagues-release-report-on-vote-counting-process-for-the-november-election", "Heinrich, Colleagues Release Report on Vote Counting Process for the November Election", "2024-10-22", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Democratic Senators Warn Americans to Be on Alert Against Efforts to Undermine Public Confidence in Election Results\n\nREAD THE REPORT HERE\n\nWASHINGTON \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Senate Rules Committee Chair Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) released a report summarizing for the American people what to expect on Election Day and encouraging voters to cast their ballot.\n\nWith the general election well underway in every state across the country, Senate Democrats have a clear message for the American people, which is to vote and cast their ballot as early as possible. As significant numbers of Americans choose to vote by mail, the report explains why it\u2019s still possible that, in some states, the outcome might not be known on November 5th, in part because states differ in whether they allow mail-in ballots to be processed ahead of Election Day and whether ballots must be received by Election Day or postmarked by Election Day. The report also makes clear that voter intimidation is illegal and federal law prohibits coercing or threatening anyone in order to interfere with their right to vote.\n\nA copy of the report can be found HERE.\n\n\u201cFormer President Trump's dangerous rhetoric threatens to further divide our country and sow real potential for violence like we saw up close on January 6, 2021. Our elections are the foundation of American democracy. Protecting them should be the top priority for everyone who cares about the future of our country. Election officials, courts, and elected leaders must be accountable for upholding that principle,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\n\u201cThe right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and we must do everything we can to protect it and uphold the integrity of the election process. That means pushing back on efforts to sow chaos during election season. As this report explains, it also means making sure that Americans know that it is possible that the outcome in some states will not be known on November 5th. While some states have expedited their counting requirements since 2020, we should be prepared to be patient about results in places where counting ballots may take longer. Americans should keep making their voices heard at the ballot box,\u201d said Klobuchar.\n\n\u201cJust like 2020, Donald Trump and his allies continue to refuse to commit to accepting the results of the election if he loses while pushing dangerous and divisive rhetoric to sow discord and undermine confidence in our election process. Americans losing faith in the results of our elections doesn\u2019t just risk another January 6th but puts our very democracy at risk,\u201d said Leader Schumer. \u201cSenate Democrats remain committed to ensuring all Americans can vote without fear or intimidation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Donald Trump bets on chaos, division, and lies to fuel his campaign and get back into the White House, it\u2019s on us to see through his fearmongering and stand up for our democracy. So vote early, vote by mail, vote in person\u2014but vote. The future of our country depends on us rejecting fear and misinformation and making our voices heard,\u201d said Murphy.\n\n\u201cThere is no greater responsibility, or honor, as an American than exercising your right to vote. Our free, fair voting systems and our peaceful transitions of powers are two of the hallmarks that have separated America from authoritarianism for centuries now\u2014and that will carry on far beyond this November, despite Donald Trump's desperate, sad attempts to sow seeds of chaos and distrust in our electoral processes. The most powerful defense against creeping autocracy in America is to make our voices heard at the ballot box\u2014because carrying out our most sacred duty as citizens is the best way we can ensure remain a government of, by and for the people,\u201d said Duckworth.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-highlights-new-ballistics-testing-machine-in-las-cruces-to-help-tackle-gun-violence-and-solve-violent-crime-in-southern-new-mexico", "Heinrich Highlights New Ballistics Testing Machine in Las Cruces to Help Tackle Gun Violence & Solve Violent Crime in Southern New Mexico", "2024-10-22", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, highlighted recent funding he\u2019s secured for law enforcement to tackle gun violence, solve crimes, and hold criminals accountable in Southern New Mexico, including a new ballistics testing machine, known as a National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) machine, for Las Cruces.\n\nCurrently, there are only four NIBIN machines in New Mexico: two in Albuquerque, one in Santa Fe, and one on loan in Las Cruces, which the Las Cruces Police Department demonstrated today. Over $1 million Heinrich secured through the Appropriations process will add four new NIBIN machines for Las Cruces, Farmington, Gallup, and Roswell.\n\nCAPTION: Heinrich visits with the Las Cruces Police Department to discuss funding he\u2019s secured for a new NIBIN machine in Las Cruces, October 22, 2024.\n\n\u201cA permanent NIBIN machine in Las Cruces will make a real difference in helping to solve violent crime in the region, allowing law enforcement to trace firearms used in crimes and hold criminals accountable, all while saving officers valuable time and resources,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cWhen it comes to crime, my focus is on preventing what we can and solving it when we can\u2019t. These machines will help us do both \u2013 solving the crimes that happen before those same criminals can do more harm. I will continue to deliver investments to support and better equip our law enforcement with the tools needed to keep New Mexicans safe.\u201d\n\nNIBIN machines are vital to assisting law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting crimes involving firearms through ballistic intelligence.\n\nThe intelligence gathered by these NIBIN machines will go to the New Mexico Attorney General\u2019s Crime Gun Intelligence Center, where dedicated and trained analysts will use the information to trace and network firearms used in crimes across the state. The Center will then be able to feed that information back to law enforcement agencies to improve identification of suspects and support successful prosecutions. In addition to securing funding for the NIBIN machines, Heinrich secured language in the 2024 Appropriations Bill directing the expanded use of NIBIN for state and local agencies in the Southwest Border region.\n\nHeinrich-secured funding for the Las Cruces Police Department\n\nHeinrich secured $194,000 in the 2024 Appropriations Bills for the Las Cruces Police Department to purchase equipment to safely analyze fentanyl and other illicit narcotics and create a community engagement effort to educate youth on the dangers of illicit drugs.\n\nIn the 2o23 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich secured $1,750,000 for the Las Cruces Police Department\u2019s Regional Critical Response Team to purchase emergency response equipment to keep New Mexicans safe. The legislation also included $450,000 Heinrich secured for the Las Cruces Police Department to purchase camera trailers, drones, automatic license plate readers, and auto-activated car and body cameras to improve public safety and accountability.\n\nFor a list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to support law enforcement and first responders across New Mexico, click here.\n\nHeinrich's longtime leadership to tackle gun violence:\n\nA gun owner and father, Heinrich has long worked to advance and pass bipartisan policies that save lives, protect public safety, and reduce gun violence.\n\nThe Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) was the first significant federal gun safety legislation to become law in 30 years. During the bill negotiations, Heinrich specifically worked with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) to increase criminal penalties for straw purchases and stop illegal gun trafficking out of our country.\n\nHeinrich-led gun trafficking and straw purchase provisions:\n\nHeinrich-led provisions in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act increased criminal penalties for straw purchasers and made it a crime, for the first time ever, to traffic firearms out of the United States. Straw purchasers are people who buy guns for those who cannot buy them directly themselves due to their age, felony criminal convictions, or other limitations. By increasing penalties for straw purchasing, Heinrich\u2019s provision is helping to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and those who would use them against our communities. By making it illegal to traffic firearms out of the country, Heinrich\u2019s provision gave law enforcement the tools needed to prosecute and disrupt the flow of firearms to Mexico and the Northern Triangle, fueling the violence that has driven so many to flee their home countries.\n\nTo date, the Department of Justice has charged more than 600 defendants using BSCA\u2019s gun trafficking and straw purchasing laws, removing hundreds of firearms off the streets in the process. These cases are significant, often preventing and prosecuting highly dangerous activity, such as crimes linked to organized trafficking rings and transnational criminal organizations.\n\nFor example, in March 2024, the Justice Department charged several defendants with trafficking and straw purchasing over 100 firearms, including many military-grade weapons, that were allegedly intended to be smuggled to a Mexican drug cartel. In April, a defendant was sentenced to 276 months in prison for firearms trafficking and straw purchasing, as well as distribution of fentanyl, where the evidence showed that two of the trafficked firearms had been used in gang-related shootings. Late last year, a defendant was sentenced to two years in prison for running an illegal gun trafficking enterprise, repeatedly taking money to lie on firearm purchase forms and obtain weapons for convicted felons.\n\nIn New Mexico, the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico has charged 11 defendants with BSCA violations.\n\nIn June, Heinrich brought his Banning Unlawful Machinegun Parts (BUMP) Act, bipartisan legislation to ban bump stocks, to the Senate floor through a unanimous consent (UC) request. The effort directly followed a recent Supreme Court ruling to overturn a Trump-era ban on bump stocks, devices designed to indiscriminately kill the highest number of people in the shortest amount of time. U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), objected to Heinrich\u2019s UC request, blocking passage of the legislation. Since the Supreme Court ruling, over 20 senators have signed onto Heinrich\u2019s BUMP Act, bringing support up to over a quarter of the Senate.\n\nHeinrich, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and former Senator Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) initially introduced the BUMP Act in the 115th Congress, following the October 1, 2017, mass shooting in which a bump stock was used to fire more than 1,000 bullets into a crowd in just 10 minutes, killing 60 people. U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) also cosponsored that legislation.\n\nLast November, Heinrich introduced the Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act, legislation to protect communities from gun violence, while safeguarding Americans\u2019 constitutional right to own a firearm for legitimate self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes. In addition to regulating the sale, transfer, and manufacture of gas-operated semi-automatic weapons, the GOSAFE Act would prevent unlawful modifications of permissible firearms, including bump stocks. Earlier this summer, Heinrich announced that his GOSAFE Act has been introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (D-Ga.).\n\nIn July 2023, Heinrich cosponsored the bicameral Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act, led by Blumenthal, to require online and other sellers of gun-making kits to comply with federal firearm safety regulations.\n\nIn 2017, Heinrich cosponsored the bipartisan Fix NICS Act, which now requires federal and state authorities to produce background check implementation plans and holds federal agencies accountable for reporting relevant criminal records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). He also led the successful call to repeal the Dickey Amendment, which had previously prevented the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from funding research on gun violence and its effects on public health.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-joins-labor-caucus-backing-biden-harris-administration", "Rep. Stansbury Joins Labor Caucus Backing Biden-Harris Administration Investigation", "2024-10-21", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) signed a letter led by Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Donald Norcross (D-NJ), Steven Horsford (D-NV), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Caucus members Reps. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Jared Golden (D-ME), Joe Courtney (D-CT), and Val Hoyle (D-OR), supporting the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s efforts to protect American workers from China\u2019s unfair practices in the shipbuilding industry.\n\n\u201cI am deeply concerned about the ongoing unfair trade practices employed by China in the shipbuilding industry,\u201d said Rep. Stansbury (NM-01). \u201cThese practices not only undermine our domestic shipbuilders but also threaten our national security and economic stability. Which is why I signed a letter with 70 of my colleagues urging the Biden Administration to swiftly conclude its investigation into these practices and to implement remedies that are commensurate to the harms caused by China.\n\n\u201cThe shipbuilding sector is vital to our economy, providing thousands of good-paying, union jobs and supporting critical infrastructure. We must level the playing field for those competing against state-subsidized Chinese companies that do not adhere to fair trade policies and principles.\n\n\u201cThe time for action is now. We must ensure that our trade policies reflect fairness and equity, protecting American jobs while promoting a robust industry.\u201d\n\n\u201cChina\u2019s industry is insulated from market forces, utilizes state-owned enterprises to provide cheap inputs and cut yard production costs, and strengthens the People\u2019s Liberation Army\u2019s Navy with expansive shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance capacities. Meanwhile, U.S. shipyards have been shuttered or forced to compete for a handful of remaining contracts. While the U.S. produces fewer than 10 ocean-going vessels annually, Chinese yards churned out over a thousand,\u201d the members wrote to President Biden.\n\n\u201cTo meet the immense challenge of rebuilding U.S. maritime capabilities, we need a robust, highly-trained workforce. Tens of thousands of jobs have been lost as shipyards have closed and experienced workers have been forced out of the industrial base,\u201d the co-chairs added. \u201cWe strongly urge you to swiftly conclude this investigation and to implement resolute measures to remedy decades of unfair and discriminatory policies by the CCP that have harmed our members and the economic and national security of the United States. The remedies must be commensurate in scope and magnitude to the large-scale harm caused to U.S. industry over the past several decades.\u201d\n\nOn March 12, 2024, five labor unions filed a petition urging USTR to initiate a Section 301 investigation into the acts, policies, and practices of China relating to competition in the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. In April, Rep. Courtney led a letter with 37 other Member of Congress in support of the petition, and USTR subsequently announced that it would accept the petition. In May, Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Dingell and Norcross testified in support of American workers and the domestic shipbuilding industry as part of USTR\u2019s investigation\n\nA full copy of the letter can be found here.\n\nThe letter was signed by 70 Members of Congress, including: Reps. Brendan Boyle; Julia Brownley; Nikki Budzinski; Andr\u00e9 Carson; Troy Carter; Judy Chu; Yvette Clarke; Joe Courtney; Danny Davis; Donald Davis; Rosa DeLauro; Christopher Deluzio; Mark DeSaulnier; Debbie Dingell; Lloyd Doggett; Dwight Evans; Lois Frankel; John Garamendi; Robert Garcia; Jared Golden; Daniel Goldman; Josh Gottheimer; Steven Horsford; Val Hoyle; Jonathan Jackson; Marcy Kaptur; Ro Khanna; Daniel Kildee; Raja Krishnamoorthi; Greg Landsman; Stephen Lynch; Seth Magaziner; Grace Meng; James Moylan; Frank Mrvan; Kevin Mullin; Grace Napolitano; Donald Norcross; Eleanor Norton; Frank Pallone; Chris Pappas; Mary Peltola; Scott Peters; Mark Pocan; Katie Porter; Raul Ruiz; Patrick Ryan; Andrea Salinas; Linda S\u00e1nchez; Mary Scanlon; Janice Schakowsky; Adam Schiff; Hillary Scholten; David Scott; Robert Scott; Brad Sherman; Elissa Slotkin; Eric Sorensen; Melanie Stansbury; Haley Stevens; Thomas Suozzi; Eric Swalwell; Shri Thanedar; Dina Titus; Lori Trahan; David Trone; Maxine Waters; Susan Wild; Nikema Williams; Frederica Wilson.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-releases-statement-indigenous-peoples-day", "Rep. Stansbury Releases Statement on \ufeffIndigenous Peoples' Day", "2024-10-21", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement on Indigenous Peoples' Day:\n\n\u201cWe must honor and celebrate Indigenous peoples and our sovereign Tribal Nations here in New Mexico - and all across the world - today and every day, \" said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). \"New Mexico\u2019s Tribes and Pueblos have stewarded the lands and waters of our state since time immemorial, and their cultures, traditions, and languages are woven deeply into the fabric of our heritage and ways of life.\n\n\"On Indigenous Peoples' Day, we recognize and celebrate the contributions Indigenous people have made in the state and across the U.S.: from the Navajo Code Talkers in World War II to Miguel Trujillo, a champion of Native voting rights, to our own Secretary Deb Haaland, who is blazing the way forward as our country's first Indigenous Cabinet Secretary.\n\n\"Today is also a day to reflect on the history and resilience of our Indigenous nations, especially in the face of an often painful past. We must ensure we confront this history head-on, redoubling our commitment to building a more just and powerful world celebrating our Indigenous communities.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-highlights-25-million-for-mobile-training-unit-to-connect-rural-new-mexicans-to-in-demand-careers-in-the-skilled-trades-participates-in-training-demo-with-ua-local-412", "Heinrich Highlights $2.5 Million for Mobile Training Unit to Connect Rural New Mexicans to In-Demand Careers in the Skilled Trades, Participates in Training Demo with U.A. Local 412", "2024-10-21", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOTOS & VIDEO\n\nALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee and a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, highlighted more than $2.5 million he has secured through the Appropriations process for the United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 412 (U.A. Local 412) to operate a mobile training unit that provides pre-apprenticeship training to New Mexicans living in rural and Tribal communities.\n\nThe mobile training unit is creating more pathways to in-demand careers in the skilled trades and has already trained dozens of New Mexicans in Espa\u00f1ola, Taos, Las Vegas, Mora, Raton, and Santa Fe. Heinrich also participated in a training demonstration with U.A. Local 412 leadership and apprentices who are learning skills in the plumbing, pipefitting, and HVAC trades.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) participates in a training demonstration with the United Association of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 412 (U.A. Local 412), October 21, 2024.\n\n\u201cThanks to our Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act, New Mexico is experiencing a manufacturing and clean energy renaissance that is creating new high-quality careers New Mexicans can build their families around,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m focused on expanding pathways to skills training and apprenticeships that connect New Mexicans to careers in their own communities. This is how we can address workforce shortages, grow the middle class, and strengthen our economy.\u201d\n\nHeinrich-Secured Federal Investments for the Mobile Training Unit:\n\nThe U.A. Local 412 Mobile Training Unit was initially paid for by an Economic Development Administration (EDA) Good Jobs Challenge Grant, as part of a $6.4 million award to the Northern N.M. Workforce Integration Network. The Good Jobs Challenge funds were authorized by the American Rescue Plan, the critical economic recovery legislation that Heinrich was proud to pass in 2021.\n\nThrough his work on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Heinrich has further supported the U.A. Local 412\u2019s workforce development efforts by securing more than $2.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) in the Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bills. These awards helped the union secure the equipment and staffing they need to train New Mexicans for jobs in the skilled trades, including specialized training needed to fill the many new, well-paying jobs being created by the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.\n\nHeinrich is currently fighting to pass the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Bills, which include an additional $870,000 CDS award that he secured within the Senate Appropriations Committee-passed Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations Bill to sustain the U.A. Local 412\u2019s mobile training unit\u2019s operations past the original EDA funding, and to expand its reach to new communities including Grants, Gallup, Silver City, and Zuni Pueblo.\n\nHeinrich\u2019s Longtime Support for Workforce Training and Apprenticeships:\n\nHeinrich has long championed proven workforce training programs like U.A. Local 412\u2019s apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs that are growing the middle class, creating and connecting New Mexicans to high-quality careers they can access in their communities, and continuing New Mexico\u2019s leading role in the clean energy transition that is being built by union workers in the skilled trades.\n\nLast week, Heinrich hosted a \u201cPro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities\u201d roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico\u2019s health care, early childhood education, and skilled trades workforce.\n\nLast year, Heinrich introduced the bipartisan Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education. Earlier this year, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state\u2019s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.\n\nLast year, Courtenay Eichhorst, Business Manager of U.A. Local 412 and President of New Mexico Building Trades, testified about the importance of apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships during a hearing that Heinrich convened as the Chairman of the Joint Economic Committee on \u201cJob Training for the Clean Energy Transition.\u201d\n\nEichhorst said during that JEC hearing, \u201cIn addition to our \u2018gold standard\u2019 apprenticeship programs, the UA and other Building Trades\u2019 unions are also increasingly investing in pre-apprenticeship programs that can be designed to help prepare high school students or individuals from underrepresented communities for a career in the trades. These programs help fill the role that used to be filled by the \u2018shop classes\u2019 that were found in high schools but have become increasingly rare. Pre-apprenticeship programs also focus on the \u2018soft skills\u2019 that are necessary for success in any industry, such as showing up on time and other work etiquette.\u201d\n\nEarlier this year, also in the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich secured $1,200,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the SMART Local Union No. 49 Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee to enhance and expand specialized HVAC apprenticeship training.\n\nIn March, Heinrich introduced the Providing Resources and Opportunities for Health Education and Learning (PRO-HEAL) Act, legislation that will tackle the health care provider shortage in New Mexico and nationwide by expanding pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers that medical professionals can access in their communities. Specifically, the PRO-HEAL Act addresses medical provider shortages by incentivizing states and institutions of higher education to expand or create health care provider pipeline programs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The legislation is inspired by the success of the Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico, where over 65% of students who have graduated from their program practice medicine in New Mexico.\n\nLast year, Heinrich introduced the Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to help address health care shortages in New Mexico and across the country and create pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers. The HPOG program has a proven track record of successfully educating workers for jobs in the health care industry, while also providing career coaching, job placement, and a mix of other support services. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the HPOG Program, providing $425 million to make HPOG available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.\n\nIn 2021, Heinrich introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry. Heinrich previously introduced similar bipartisan legislation in 2019 with former Senator Cory Gardner (R-Colo.).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-hosts-discussion-immigrant-workforce-development-outdoor", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Hosts Discussion on Immigrant Workforce Development, Outdoor Equity", "2024-10-18", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 On Thursday, October 17, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) hosted a roundtable discussion with local immigration and advocacy organizations to address workforce challenges facing immigrant communities. The conversation highlighted the essential role immigrant workers play in New Mexico\u2019s economy, particularly in industries like health care, agriculture, education and energy. The event featured leaders from the Center for Civic Policy, The Semilla Project, OL\u00c9 and Organized Power in Numbers.\n\n\u201cNew Mexico\u2019s economy depends on immigrant workers, whether it\u2019s the farmworkers in Deming, the health care professionals in Albuquerque, or the teachers shaping the future of our state. If we want New Mexico to thrive, we need policies that reflect the realities of our workforce,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cIn Congress, I am committed to finding common sense solutions to meet the moment and create more opportunities for our communities.\u201d\n\nVasquez emphasized his Strengthening Our Workforce Act, a bill that would create a pathway for immigrants working in essential industries to remain in the U.S. legally. In addition to workforce challenges, the discussion touched on humane immigration policies. Vasquez also spoke about his Humane Accountability Act, which would hold detention centers accountable and ensure that families seeking asylum are treated with dignity.\n\nOutdoor equity was also a prominent theme in the discussion. Vasquez strongly believes that everyone deserves access to the outdoors. Throughout his career in public service, Vasquez has led efforts to protect our lands, water and wildlife. That\u2019s why, before serving in Congress, he created the nation\u2019s first Outdoor Equity Fund, a program that is getting more Latinos outdoors all across New Mexico.\n\n\u201cAfter our enlightening discussion during the \u2018Building Pathways\u2019 event, it\u2019s clear that our collaboration with leaders like Congressman Vasquez and Representative Small is pivotal,\u201d said Jared Berenice Estrada, Advocacy & Programs Director at The Semilla Project. \u201cThis engagement highlights our commitment to integrating outdoor equity with clean energy and workforce development, ensuring that all communities, especially the underrepresented, have access to promising, sustainable career paths. The insights shared today energize our ongoing efforts to advocate for inclusive growth and environmental stewardship.\u201d\n\n\u201cJust a few weeks ago, I finally received my work permit through the Labor Based Deferred Action program (DALE). For the first time, I felt like I had control over my future. I now have the freedom to explore opportunities. I can go to school, start a business, and even join a union,\u201d said Ruben Munoz, DALE work permit recipient. \u201cI can also start a pre-apprenticeship with the New Mexico Building Trades as early as December. Their promise is to train me up so I can fulfill one of these clean energy jobs as a union apprentice and one day, union member. We need more programs like DALE and DACA to give people these opportunities. Everyone should have the right to work, to live without fear, and to contribute to their community.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe already have the workers New Mexico needs, and they are ready to be trained. Our real problem is not a labor shortage problem, it\u2019s a worker authorization shortage problem,\u201d said Janyce Cardenas, Campaign Manager at Organized Power in Numbers. \u201cWe, at Organized Power in Numbers believe the answer is to create more pathways to worker permits and citizenship so that the union good jobs with good pay and benefits that will be created by the clean energy industry are not only providing stability for workers and their families, but also will ensure New Mexico thrives for generations to come.\u201d\n\nThe event was part of Vasquez\u2019s ongoing efforts to engage with local and community leaders on how federal policies impact New Mexico\u2019s diverse communities. He reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing immigration reform that strengthens the state\u2019s economy while ensuring fair and humane treatment for all.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-wildfire-seasons-intensify-heinrich-introduces-legislation-to-study-the-impacts-on-home-insurance-coverage-identify-measures-to-alleviate-risks-for-homeowners-in-new-mexico", "As Wildfire Seasons Intensify, Heinrich Introduces Legislation to Study the Impacts on Home Insurance Coverage, Identify Measures to Alleviate Risks for Homeowners in New Mexico", "2024-10-18", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and the Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee, recently introduced the Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act to better understand the impacts of increasingly destructive wildfires in the West on insurance coverage for homeowners, and identify possible measures to alleviate the financial risk of wildfires.\n\n\u201cMy office is fielding more and more calls from New Mexicans whose premiums are being hiked dramatically, or who have lost their insurance plans entirely. New Mexicans are trying to protect their families\u2019 homes and financial stability. They deserve transparent and fair insurance markets that give them peace of mind,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cWe need to get a better handle on how exactly these more destructive wildfire seasons and other climate risks are impacting insurance companies\u2019 decisions. More accurate data and analysis will help us create more effective solutions to this mounting challenge of insurers substantially raising the cost of premiums for homeowners and even pulling out entirely from Western and forested communities.\u201d\n\nAccording to a report released by Heinrich as Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee, the financial risks of wildfires are hard to predict because fires can start for a number of reasons and because their risk to peoples\u2019 homes at any given time is based on a complicated combination of topography, drought conditions, wind patterns, fuel amounts, and the location of houses among many other factors. This has led many insurers to either raise premium costs substantially across the board in Western and forested communities or pull out of markets entirely \u2014 with several major insurance companies declining to provide any form of coverage.\n\nHeinrich\u2019s Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act would require a federal study to assess:\n\nThe Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act is endorsed by Public Citizen and the National Association of Counties (NACo).\n\nFull text of the bill is available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-advance-of-100th-anniversary-heinrich-leads-call-to-prioritize-historic-route-66-corridor-for-federal-investments-in-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure", "In Advance of 100th Anniversary, Heinrich Leads Call to Prioritize Historic Route 66 Corridor for Federal Investments in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure", "2024-10-18", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 In advance of the 100th Anniversary of Historic Route 66 in 2026, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), the co-founder and co-chair of the Electrification Caucus, led a letter alongside U.S. Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm urging them to prioritize investments in electric vehicle (EV) chargers along historic Route 66 as they oversee the second round of the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program applications under the Infrastructure Law.\n\nIn their letter, the senators wrote: \u201cThe rich history and culture of Route 66 as a symbol of American freedom and adventure will draw millions of visitors to each of the eight states it runs through during the Centennial Anniversary of this iconic highway in 2026. In particular, we urge the Federal Highway Administration and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to make significant investments in electric vehicle (EV) chargers along Route 66 through the second round of the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. We believe federal investment in EV charging will play a critical role in fostering economic and infrastructure development in communities all along Route 66 during its Centennial Anniversary.\u201d\n\nThey continued: \u201cMore than 2 million people visit Route 66 every year, and our states are busy planning numerous events in 2026 to celebrate the anniversary and honor the Mother Road and its connection to American culture. Accessible charging infrastructure can help draw visitors to historic sites and roadside attractions, as well as catalyze the revitalization of downtowns and main streets. Infrastructure funded by Round 2 of the CFI program should be able to be installed and fully functional in time for the Centennial.\u201d\n\nThey concluded: \u201cTherefore, we urge your Departments to include specific consideration of applications from locations along Route 66 in this round of competitive CFI grants. Together, we can honor the history of the Mother Road while revitalizing communities and building a better future for the millions of Americans who live on Route 66.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nOne of America\u2019s first continuous stretches of paved highway, U.S. Route 66, sometimes referred to as \"The Mother Road,\" was commissioned on November 11, 1926, and stretched 2,448 miles (3,940 km) from Chicago to Los Angeles. Many organizations in the eight states along Historic Route 66 are planning special events and tours to highlight the road\u2019s Centennial in 2026, including the New Mexico Tourism Department, which just launched a grant program to provide support for marketing campaigns, special events, and infrastructure related to Route 66.\n\nCongress passed the bipartisan Route 66 Centennial Commission Act in 2020 to establish a commission consisting of representatives from each of the eight Route 66 states. In their First Interim Report, released on July 11, 2023, the Route 66 Centennial Commission recommended the creation of a Route 66 Alternative Fuels Corridor Initiative to enable visitors to confidently travel the length of the entire route with whatever vehicle they choose.\n\nThe Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program (CFI Program) is a competitive grant program established in the Infrastructure Law to build out accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure in the places people live and work. The program, which just opened its second round, will provide up to $2.5 billion over five years to strategically deploy electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and other alternative fueling infrastructure projects in urban and rural communities in publicly accessible locations, including downtown areas and local neighborhoods, particularly in underserved and disadvantaged communities.\n\nThe full text of the senators\u2019 letter can be found here and below.\n\nDear Secretary Buttigieg and Secretary Granholm:\n\nAs you work to implement the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we write to encourage your Departments to take advantage of all opportunities to support economic development along Route 66. The rich history and culture of Route 66 as a symbol of American freedom and adventure will draw millions of visitors to each of the eight states it runs through during the Centennial Anniversary of this iconic highway in 2026. In particular, we urge the Federal Highway Administration and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to make significant investments in electric vehicle (EV) chargers along Route 66 through the second round of the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. We believe federal investment in EV charging will play a critical role in fostering economic and infrastructure development in communities all along Route 66 during its Centennial Anniversary.\n\nMore than 2 million people visit Route 66 every year, and our states are busy planning numerous events in 2026 to celebrate the anniversary and honor the Mother Road and its connection to American culture. We applaud the administration\u2019s work in appointing 12 individuals to serve as members of the Route 66 Centennial Commission, which was established by the bipartisan Route 66 Centennial Commission Act in 2020 (Public Law No: 116-256). Under this law, the Route 66 Centennial Commission is working \u201cto identify and recommend activities that may be carried out by the Federal Government that are fitting and proper to honor Route 66 on the occasion of its centennial anniversary.\u201d Notably, the Commission\u2019s first Interim Report, released on July 11, 2023, recommended the creation of a Route 66 Alternative Fuels Corridor Initiative. As elected officials representing states along Route 66, we are fully supportive of this recommendation.\n\nThe CFI program provides a unique opportunity to support the recommendations set out by the commission\u2019s report and enable visitors to confidently travel the length of the \u201cMain Street of America\u201d in whatever vehicle they choose. Accessible charging infrastructure can help draw visitors to historic sites and roadside attractions, as well as catalyze the revitalization of downtowns and main streets. Infrastructure funded by Round 2 of the CFI program should be able to be installed and fully functional in time for the Centennial. Therefore, we urge your Departments to include specific consideration of applications from locations along Route 66 in this round of competitive CFI grants. Together, we can honor the history of the Mother Road while revitalizing communities and building a better future for the millions of Americans who live on Route 66.\n\nSincerely,\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-returns-over-1-million-constituents-secures-millions", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Returns Over $1 Million to Constituents, Secures Millions to Strengthen Public Safety, Support the Economy", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 Today, October 17, 2024, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) highlighted his ongoing commitment to helping New Mexicans navigate federal bureaucracy and securing funding for community projects. The event brought together constituents who have directly benefited from his office\u2019s assistance with federal agencies as well as local leaders whose projects have received significant federal support through Community Project Funding (CPF).\n\nSince taking office, Vasquez has returned over $1 million to constituents, successfully resolving over 1,200 cases involving IRS disputes, Social Security benefits and VA assistance for veterans. Several constituents shared their stories of how Vasquez helped them overcome obstacles when dealing with federal agencies.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to announce that my office has returned over $1 million to hard-working New Mexicans,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cMy office has helped seniors access hard-earned Social Security benefits, resolved IRS issues for families and helped countless veterans. I\u2019m here to fight for everyone in southern New Mexico. Every success story shows the real impact we can have when we prioritize people over politics and ensure the federal government works for them.\u201d\n\n\u201cMy husband was a Vietnam veteran. He was very, very sick, and he died in Texas because that\u2019s where they sent him, and I waited and waited for my benefits. Every time I contacted the VA, they told me they\u2019re working on it, but it never moved. I came here, filled out paperwork. Congressman Vasquez\u2019s office sent it. On Thursday, your office sent me a letter saying that you heard from them, and on Saturday, I got my money. I can\u2019t thank you enough for what you\u2019ve done,\u201d said Karen of Las Cruces.\n\n\u201cMy husband and I are both veterans. I started getting heart issues in 1998. Recently, I was told I needed a transplant, and they told me I needed to go to Utah. My husband and I are pretty close to retirement and by us having to temporarily move and lose our employment, would mean our house and our car would be gone. All of the things that we\u2019ve worked for for retirement in a few years would be out the window. I called Congressman Vasquez and within the same week, the doctor called me back with an option to stay in state. It\u2019s amazing how fast things worked for us. I really appreciate your intervention, because without that, I would have been dead within a week or two\u201d said Cyprina of Alamogordo.\n\n\u201cCongressman Vasquez helped me with a Post Office issue,\u201d said John of Las Cruces. \u201cOur mailbox on our block got vandalized, and for months, we had to pick up our mail at the Post Office. I contacted the office and within days we got a new mailbox. It was crazy!\"\n\nIn addition to casework success, Vasquez highlighted over $14.2 million he has secured for Community Project Funding. Vasquez\u2019s submission of fifteen CPF projects for Fiscal Year 2024 marked the first time that New Mexico\u2019s second congressional district has participated in the CPF process in recent years. Local leaders in attendance praised Vasquez\u2019s leadership in bringing federal dollars back to New Mexico to fund essential community programs that will grow the economy and keep New Mexicans safe.\n\n\u201cUnlike my predecessor, I have secured millions of dollars in Community Project Funding for our district for the first time,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cThese investments are supporting critical infrastructure upgrades, public safety initiatives and strengthening New Mexico\u2019s economy and families.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve been on the City Council while we\u2019ve had a representative who was unresponsive to our community\u2019s needs, and I don\u2019t ever want to go back to that. Because of the impact that Representative Vasquez has talked about here today, I just couldn't be more grateful for how you are representing us and for the support that you\u2019re bringing, of course, to Las Cruces, but also to rural communities all across the southern part of our state. Thank you,\u201d said Las Cruces City Councilor Johana Bencomo.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019re here to work together at a local level, at a state level, at a federal level, and really here for our community and for our people. I think that just Congressman Vasquez being there to do that, it acknowledges that, and I can\u2019t thank you enough for that. Our little community of Mesilla in the past has not actually gone after any type of federal dollars, but Congressman Vasquez really opened that door and that opportunity, and it\u2019s been a breath of fresh air to see what\u2019s available and out there. I can't thank you more for that because it\u2019s great for our community and the future of the town,\u201d said Mesilla Mayor Russell Hernandez.\n\nVasquez remains committed to helping constituents navigate federal agencies, securing federal funding for local projects and ensuring that the voices of southern New Mexico are heard in Washington. For assistance with federal agencies, please visit vasquez.house.gov/help.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/jec-chairman-martin-heinrich-hosts-pro-worker-pro-business-opportunities-roundtable", "JEC Chairman Martin Heinrich Hosts \u201cPro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities\u201d Roundtable", "2024-10-17", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOTOS & VIDEO\n\nHeinrich highlights how federal legislation is expanding pathways to in-demand jobs in New Mexico\n\nALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), hosted a \u201cPro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities\u201d roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico\u2019s health care, skilled trades, early childhood education, and union workforce.\n\nHeinrich Hosts \u201cPro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities\u201d Roundtable on October 17, 2024.\n\n\u201cThe manufacturing and clean energy renaissance driven by historic investments from the Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act is creating career opportunities across New Mexico. We need to build on this momentum by expanding access to apprenticeships, supporting new, high-quality jobs in the building and skilled trades, growing pathways to health care careers, and strengthening our early childhood education workforce. I will continue fighting to address workforce shortages, build the middle class, grow our economy, and provide more New Mexicans with the careers they can build their families around in their home communities,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\nThanks to recently enacted legislation that Heinrich helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, New Mexico is now at the center of a clean energy \u201cmanufacturing renaissance,\u201d which is creating hundreds of jobs in New Mexico that people can build their families around.\n\nHeinrich discussed his work with community leaders to create more pathways to in-demand careers, including through jobs training and registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. He also highlighted the success of the domestic manufacturing tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act that have expanded clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing in New Mexico.\n\nThrough his role as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich has held hearings on job training in the clean energy sector, the domestic boom in manufacturing, and investing in early childhood education. Heinrich has also released reports on growing registered apprenticeship programs, job training for the clean energy transition, the manufacturing renaissance, addressing rural health worker shortages, the economic benefits of early childhood education, employing women in the clean energy sector, and growing the labor force in New Mexico.\n\nCreating Pathways to High-Quality Careers:\n\nHeinrich has long been committed to creating new pathways to careers for New Mexicans in the communities where they grew up, while tackling shortages in in-demand sectors like health care and early childhood education.\n\nHeinrich introduced the Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state\u2019s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.\n\nIn March, Heinrich introduced the Providing Resources and Opportunities for Health Education and Learning (PRO-HEAL) Act, legislation that will tackle the health care provider shortage in New Mexico and nationwide by expanding pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers that medical professionals can access in their communities. Specifically, the PRO-HEAL Act addresses medical provider shortages by incentivizing states and institutions of higher education to expand or create health care provider pipeline programs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The legislation is inspired by the success of the Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico, where over 65% of students who have graduated from their program practice medicine in New Mexico.\n\nLast year, Heinrich introduced the Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to help address health care shortages in New Mexico and across the country and create pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers.\n\nThe HPOG program has a proven track record of successfully educating workers for jobs in the health care industry, while also providing career coaching, job placement, and a mix of other support services. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the HPOG Program, providing $425 million to make HPOG available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.\n\nIn 2021, Heinrich introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry.\n\nInvestments in Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing:\n\nHeinrich has been fighting hard to pass legislation and secure investments that are growing the state\u2019s economy, building the middle class, and expanding high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act,which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation\u2019s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells. Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M.\n\nIn June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Stansbury, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.\n\nIn April, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus \u2014 a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque\u2019s Westside \u2014 which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.\n\nThat same day, Heinrich, Granholm, and Vasquez participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the production of the first wind towers coming off the Arcosa Wind Towers manufacturing line. The ribbon-cutting ceremony came nearly nine months after Heinrich welcomed President Biden to the Bel\u00e9n manufacturing facility \u2014 a $60 million investment that will have a $314 million economic impact and create 250 jobs in the region.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-announces-legislation-to-build-more-homes-in-new-mexico-highlights-over-1-million-he-secured-for-housing-development-in-santa-fe", "Heinrich Announces Legislation to Build More Homes in New Mexico, Highlights Over $1 Million He Secured for Housing Development in Santa Fe", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "SANTA FE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, met with leaders from Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity and Homewise to announce his New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation to build more housing and renovate homes for working families, and see how the $1,100,000 he secured through the Appropriations process is helping Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity develop land and build housing for working families.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announces his New Homes Tax Credit Act in Santa Fe, October 16, 2024.\n\n\u201cNew Mexico is facing a housing shortage. The driving factor behind it is clear: we need to build more homes to meet demand. I authored the New Homes Tax Credit Act and secured federal funding to build more housing, so we can give more working families in our state a shot at owning a home. I will continue fighting to increase housing supply and put homeownership within reach for more New Mexicans,\u201d said Heinrich.\n\nBackground:\n\nHeinrich recently introduced the New Homes Tax Credit Act, legislation that will provide tax credits to incentivize new investments and additional resources for single-family home construction and renovations for working families.\n\nAs Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich released a report on housing supply in America, which found that underbuilding, restrictive zoning policies, and home financing hurdles have caused the supply of starter homes to shrink and prices to rise. High interest rates and mangled supply chains have also contributed to increased home prices. Heinrich\u2019s legislation will address the lack of housing inventory for individuals and families whose incomes are up to 120 percent of the area median income (AMI), particularly including in areas where middle-income families have historically been priced out. In Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example, this added housing inventory would benefit families with annual incomes of up to $103,680, $109,800, and $78,960, respectively.\n\nAdditionally, Heinrich secured $1,100,000 through the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations process for Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity to develop land into a mixed-income development focused on building 25 to 30 housing units for working families. In total, Heinrich has secured $14,500,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for northern New Mexico to address the housing shortage.\n\nFor a list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to lower housing costs and tackle the housing shortage in New Mexico, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-tours-advanced-manufacturing-facility-in-los-alamos-touts-success-of-tech-transfer", "Heinrich Tours Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Los Alamos, Touts Success of Tech Transfer", "2024-10-16", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "LOS ALAMOS, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) toured Los Alamos-based company UbiQD's advanced materials and technology manufacturing facility, which was recently expanded to 16,000 square feet. Heinrich has long championed growing an advanced, high-tech manufacturing industry in New Mexico, including through the commercialization and transfer of innovative technologies developed at our national labs to the private sector.\n\nAs part of this larger work, Heinrich has supported UbiQD\u2019s efforts to commercialize and scale its manufacturing of low-cost and low-toxicity quantum dot nanotechnologies first developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In addition to national security applications, these materials can help support smart building facades, including spectrum-controlled greenhouse films like the UbiGro cover and photovoltaic solar windows.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) tours the Los Alamos-based company UbiQD\u2019sadvanced materials and technology manufacturing facility, October 16, 2024.\n\n\u201cUbiQD is such a great example of how commercializing innovative technologies developed at our national labs can fuel economic growth and stand up whole new advanced manufacturing industries in New Mexico,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cThroughout my time in Congress, I have proudly championed strong funding for both Los Alamos and Sandia Labs, and I will continue doing exactly that in the years to come. By scaling tech transfer programs at our labs, we will help commercialize promising technologies with private sector applications. This, in turn, diversifies our state\u2019s economic engines, with whole new industries creating high-quality careers that New Mexicans can build their families around.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nIn 2016 and 2018, Heinrich welcomed the announcements that UbiQD received Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I and Phase II grants from the National Science Foundation. Those grant awards helped fund research and development of luminescent solar concentrating glass windows with quantum dot coatings. More recently, in 2022, UbiQD received federal funding from the U.S. Air Force to install quantum dot-tinted photovoltaic windows on military bases and from NASA to scale its UbiGro greenhouse films for boosting crop yield in both space and on Earth.\n\nEarlier this year, UbiQD received a new $175,000 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which is funded through annual appropriations from the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee that Heinrich chairs. The award will help UbiQD expand its production of UbiGro Luminescent Greenhouse Films that use the company\u2019s novel quantum dot nanotechnology to enhance the photosynthetic efficiency of greenhouses to boost crop yields and quality.\n\nHeinrich has long fought to pass legislation and secure investments to lower costs, grow and diversify New Mexico\u2019s economy, and expand high-quality manufacturing jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.\n\nThis includes Heinrich\u2019s support for programs like the Department of Energy\u2019s Office of Technology Transitions and Laboratory Directed Research and Development that help transfer innovative technologies and advanced materials with commercial applications, like UbiQD\u2019s quantum dot technologies, to the private sector. Heinrich has also worked to deliver substantial increases in funding for both of New Mexico\u2019s national labs, doubling the total budget and nearly doubling the workforce in New Mexico for both Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Laboratory during his time in Congress.\n\nAs a member of the Conference Committee that helped pass the landmark CHIPS and Science Act, Heinrich also successfully delivered investments to strengthen New Mexico\u2019s research universities, national labs, and high-tech and advanced manufacturing industries. These investments are paving the way in quantum computing and microelectronics, already bringing results \u2013 with increases in New Mexico semiconductor manufacturing jobs.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich also helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation\u2019s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.\n\nHeinrich and the N.M. Delegation recently welcomed $18,449,999, for Pajarito Powder, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based company, to boost manufacturing of advanced energy technologies and create 60 direct manufacturing jobs.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells.Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M.\n\nIn June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.\n\nIn April, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus \u2014 a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque\u2019s Westside \u2014 which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-heinrich-statement-on-indigenous-peoples-day", "VIDEO: Heinrich Statement on Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day", "2024-10-14", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following video statement in commemoration of Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day. Heinrich is leading the effort in Congress to pass legislation that would replace the current federal holiday of Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day.\n\nVIDEO: U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day Statement, October 14, 2024.\n\n\u201cNative peoples have lived in the land we now call New Mexico and the United States for thousands of years.\n\n\u201cI am honored to work with the Pueblos and Tribes who call New Mexico home, and with Tribes all across Indian Country. As part of that work, I have been proud to lead legislation in the Senate to re-frame this national holiday as Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day.\n\n\u201cNew Mexico is one of a growing number of states that already recognizes this change. And three years ago, President Biden became the first President to formally commemorate Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day. Re-framing this holiday is a powerful way for us to acknowledge and heal from painful history. It also inspires us to celebrate the enduring strength and resilience of Native people.\n\n\u201cToday and every day, I am committed to uplifting Tribal communities and defending Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nLast year, Heinrich led the bicameral introduction of legislation to replace the official federal holiday recognized on the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day. The bill would also replace any mention of Columbus Day in all federal laws or regulations with Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Day.\n\nHeinrich\u2019s legislation is supported by the Navajo Nation, Mescalero Apache Tribe, All Pueblo Council of Governors, National Congress of American Indians, Indigenous Peoples\u2019 Initiative, Association on American Indian Affairs, Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe, the Pocahontas Project, Cherokee Nation, National Council of Urban Indian Health, and Barona Band of Mission Indians.\n\nThe Senate legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Angus King (I-Maine).\n\nRead the full text of the bill here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/nominated-rep-gabe-vasquez-albuquerque-teen-cheyenne-anderson-named-2024-girls", "Nominated by Rep. Gabe Vasquez, Albuquerque Teen Cheyenne Anderson Named 2024 Girls Leading Change Honoree by the White House", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 Today, October 11, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) announced that Cheyenne Anderson, a talented young artist and leader from Albuquerque\u2019s South Valley, has been recognized as one of the 2024 Girls Leading Change honorees by the White House. Nominated by Vasquez, Cheyenne is being celebrated for her outstanding work uplifting underrepresented communities through art and photography, particularly focusing on her Chicana, Mexica and Apache heritage.\n\n\u201cCheyenne\u2019s passion for using art to lift up the voices of her community and her dedication to showcasing the beauty and resilience of the South Valley is truly inspiring,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cIt\u2019s been an honor to nominate her for this prestigious recognition, and I am incredibly proud to see her contributions acknowledged on a national stage. Cheyenne embodies the spirit of leadership and creativity that will continue to make a difference in our community for years to come.\u201d\n\nCheyenne Anderson, age 17, has made a significant impact in her community through her art and commitment to elevating the stories of others. In ninth grade, she co-created and edited the book South Valley, which features poetry and artwork from fellow youth poets and local community members, celebrating the unique culture and spirit of the South Valley. Earlier this year, Vasquez was proud to award her with official Congressional Recognition for her work.\n\n\u201cThis project started as a celebration of the South Valley and because I believe representation matters, especially for people and places often overlooked,\u201d said Cheyenne. \u201cBeing at the White House, with First Lady Jill Biden, among other smart, dedicated young women making a difference around the country, was an honor. This is what it means to be seen for our uniqueness.\u201d\n\nCheyenne added, \u201cCongressman Vasquez has been an amazing supporter, and I can\u2019t thank him enough for putting me and the South Valley forward for this recognition. I\u2019m excited to continue to work with him on more ways to hold up and strengthen our community. And to all the other New Mexico girls leading change and making a difference in their own communities, remember to speak your truths. Tell your stories. Don\u2019t step down.\u201d\n\nThe Girls Leading Change program, hosted by First Lady Jill Biden and the White House, honors young women across the United States who are making a positive impact in their communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-groundbreaking-casa-de-peregrinos-facility-chaparral", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Groundbreaking for Casa de Peregrinos Facility in Chaparral, Commits to Strengthening Food Security", "2024-10-11", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "CHAPARRAL, N.M. \u2013 Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined community leaders for the groundbreaking ceremony of Casa de Peregrinos\u2019 new facility in Chaparral to highlight the importance of addressing food insecurity, particularly in rural areas.\n\n\u201cI\u2019ve always said that hungry children can\u2019t learn, seniors can\u2019t thrive and families can\u2019t get ahead if they\u2019re worried about their next meal. For nearly 40 years, Casa de Peregrinos has been a lifeline for families in our community, helping put food on the table,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cToday, we\u2019re taking another big step in that fight against food insecurity, ensuring that more families have access to the support they need here in Chaparral. As your Congressman, I\u2019ve made it a priority to support legislation that strengthens food security and expands access to nutritious meals.\u201d\n\nVasquez commended Casa de Peregrinos for its ongoing work to address hunger and ensure that vulnerable populations, including schoolchildren, seniors and families in remote areas, have access to nutritious meals. The new facility in Chaparral represents a critical investment in the region\u2019s efforts to combat food insecurity and ensure no family goes hungry.\n\nVasquez also announced that he helped secure $300,000 in federal funding for Casa de Peregrinos to build a new food pantry in Hatch, which will extend food access to some of New Mexico\u2019s most rural communities. He highlighted the ongoing need for federal programs like SNAP and WIC, noting that nearly one in four households in southern New Mexico relies on SNAP. He vowed to continue fighting for a Farm Bill that supports new farmers, families and healthy food as a member of the House Agriculture Committee.\n\nVasquez also touted his work on initiatives such as the CSFP Tribal Nutrition Sovereignty Act, which empowers Tribal communities with greater control over their food programs, and the School Meals Expansion Act, which ensures more students receive free meals.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-leads-letter-urging-speaker-johnson-call-house-back-session-vote", "Rep. Stansbury Leads Letter Urging Speaker Johnson to Call House Back Into Session to Vote on Emergency Disaster Relief Funding", "2024-10-10", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE\u2014Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) led a letter urging House Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04) to bring the U.S. House of Representatives back into session to approve necessary funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to fulfill their Hurricane Helene and Milton relief missions. Recent legislation has provided initial relief funds but falls critically short of what will be necessary to address the scale of destruction and the recovery needs for Fiscal Year 2025. From Milton and Helene, to wildfires and flooding at home in New Mexico, replenishment of federal disaster funds is critically needed.\n\n61 Members of Congress signed the letter.\n\n\"I want to send everyone who is in the path of Hurricane Milton my prayers,\u201d Congresswoman Stansbury said. \u201cThis is a difficult time, especially as Hurricane Helene made landfall just a few days ago. In New Mexico, our communities experienced a catastrophic fire and flooding in Lincoln and Otero counties and are still recovering. But beyond that, we need to make sure that all families and all communities across the United States can access necessary disaster relief funds. That\u2019s why I co-led this letter. We must do the work to ensure our communities are safe.\"\n\n\"We write to you amidst a season marked by unprecedented natural disasters and increasingly severe weather events that have left communities across our nation in dire need of additional and comprehensive disaster relief funding,\" wrote the Members. \"The funds previously allocated were a necessary first step, allowing for an initial response to the immediate aftermath of these disasters. However, as recovery efforts continue, it is abundantly clear that these funds will not suffice.\"\n\nAs representatives of the American people, it is our duty to ensure that every community has the resources to recover and rebuild in the wake of devastation. This is not merely a matter of policy but a profound obligation to the citizens we serve, who depend on their government for support in their most critical times of need,\" the Members continued. \"Therefore, we strongly urge you to bring the US House of Representatives back into session to approve the necessary funding that will empower FEMA and the SBA to fulfill their disaster relief missions. Our communities cannot wait, and we must act swiftly to provide them with the assurance that their government will stand by them.\"\n\nA full copy of the letter can be found by clicking here, or reading below:\n\nDear Speaker Johnson,\n\nWe write to you amidst a season marked by unprecedented natural disasters and increasingly severe weather events that have left communities across our nation in dire need of additional and comprehensive disaster relief funding.\n\nRecent legislation has provided initial relief funds, yet these provisions fall critically short of what will be necessary to address the scale of destruction and the recovery needs for Fiscal Year 2025. We, therefore, urge you to immediately reconvene the US House of Representatives so that it can pass robust disaster relief funding.\n\nThe funds previously allocated were a necessary first step, allowing for an initial response to the immediate aftermath of these disasters. However, as recovery efforts continue, it is abundantly clear that these funds will not suffice.\n\nFurthermore, the frequency and intensity of these extreme weather events are a clarion call for proactive measures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) must be equipped not only to respond to current disasters but also to adequately prepare for future events. This requires substantial funding that ensures FEMA can maintain a state of readiness and provide immediate assistance when disasters strike. Additionally, the Small Business Administration disaster relief loan program must be replenished as soon as possible to help business owners rebuild their enterprises and communities.\n\nAs representatives of the American people, it is our duty to ensure that every community has the resources to recover and rebuild in the wake of devastation. This is not merely a matter of policy but a profound obligation to the citizens we serve, who depend on their government for support in their most critical times of need.\n\nTherefore, we strongly urge you to bring the US House of Representatives back into session to approve the necessary funding that will empower FEMA and the SBA to fulfill their disaster relief missions. Our communities cannot wait, and we must act swiftly to provide them with the assurance that their government will stand by them.\n\nThank you for your attention to this urgent matter. We hope for your leadership in reconvening the House and ensuring that our nation is prepared to meet the challenges posed by natural disasters.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/prominent-law-enforcement-groups-back-rep-gabe-vasquezs-bipartisan-stop", "Prominent Law Enforcement Groups Back Rep. Gabe Vasquez\u2019s Bipartisan Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act", "2024-10-10", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) announced the support of several prominent law enforcement organizations for his bipartisan Stop Fentanyl at the Border Actthatprovides increased funding, technology and staffing for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to keep our communities safe and combat the growing fentanyl crisis. Endorsements include the National Fraternal Order of Police, National Association of Police Organizations, National Treasury Employees Union (representing CBP officers), National Narcotic Officers\u2019 Associations\u2019 Coalition, and Major County Sheriffs of America.\n\nThese groups, representing thousands of officers and law enforcement professionals on the front lines of the opioid crisis, support Vasquez in his efforts to combat fentanyl smuggling and stop the flow of illicit drugs into the United States.\n\n\u201cHaving the support of the men and women in law enforcement who work to protect our communities is an important endorsement to stop this crisis at the source. Fentanyl is having a tragic impact on young people and our families. I\u2019m grateful for law enforcement\u2019s support of my bill to combat fentanyl smuggling,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cMy bipartisan Stop Fentanyl at the Border Actprovides additional screening resources and staff to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to help save lives. This is not a partisan issue, we must come together to prevent further tragedy, overdoses and death.\u201d\n\nThe Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act provides increased funding for personnel, advanced inspection technology and equipment to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), ensuring that officers have the resources to effectively detect and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States. This bipartisan bill also addresses the illegal exportation of goods, firearms and currency, which are often tied to drug trafficking networks.\n\n\u201cOur law enforcement members are the first line of defense against the scourge of fentanyl that comes across the American border each day,\u201d said Patrick Yoes, President of theNational Fraternal Order of Police. \u201cOn behalf of more than 377,000 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, I thank you both for your leadership on the issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act provides much needed support, resources, and funding to the southwest border to help federal, state, and local law enforcement fight the trafficking of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the country,\u201d said William J. Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organization (NAPO). \u201cLaw enforcement at all levels of government have long been asking for these resources to support their efforts to prevent and detect fentanyl coming into this country and our communities. NAPO continues to fight for resources to support law enforcement\u2019s efforts to combat fentanyl, its analogues, and similar opioids. We thank [Rep. Vasquez] for your leadership on this issue and we look forward to working with you to pass this important legislation.\u201d\n\nThe opioid crisis continues to devastate hundreds of thousands of American families as deadly, illicit narcotics are smuggled into the county. Fentanyl-related overdoses are responsible for over 70,000 deaths a year in the United States. Vasquez\u2019s bill addresses CBP\u2019s lack of necessary personnel, technology and resources to prevent these deadly substances from entering the United States.\n\nVasquez\u2019s Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act remains a key part of his broader commitment to safeguard New Mexico\u2019s families and address the opioid crisis. The bill has gained momentum as it continues to receive bipartisan support and endorsements from law enforcement professionals dedicated to ending the fentanyl epidemic.\n\nIn Congress, Vasquez has worked across the aisle to find real solutions to these problems, securing over $280 million for border security, voting to add 22,000 new Border Patrol agents and introducing a series of bipartisan bills that would improve security at ports of entry, crack down on cartels and ensure that those who work hard and play by the rules have an opportunity for legal citizenship.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-unveils-nm-minority-business-development-centers-new-office-in-albuquerque", "Heinrich Unveils N.M. Minority Business Development Center\u2019s New Office in Albuquerque", "2024-10-10", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Heinrich was instrumental in establishing and standing up the Minority Business Development Center in New Mexico\n\nALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee, joined Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, community leaders, and small business owners to unveil a new, larger office space for the New Mexico Minority Business Development Center (Business Center) as part of a new Business Resource Center that will also house the City of Albuquerque\u2019s Small Business Office.\n\nHeinrich wrote the legislative provision that established and funded the New Mexico Business Center in 2020, securing more than $2.5 million in federal resources through the U.S. Department of Commerce\u2019s Minority Business Development Agency for its staffing and programming.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) participates in a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome the newly expanded office space for the New Mexico MBDC in Albuquerque, October 10, 2024.\n\n\u201cLocal businesses are the beating hearts of our communities and backbone of our economy. That\u2019s why, four years ago, I wrote the federal legislative provision that re-opened New Mexico\u2019s Minority Business Development Center and fought to fund its operations. And it\u2019s why I am so pleased to celebrate this expanded Center in Albuquerque and the locations now open in Las Vegas and Las Cruces,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cWith the $2.5 million-plus in federal resources I\u2019ve been able to deliver, we are expanding support for local businesses across our state as they create the types of careers New Mexicans can build their families around, in their home communities.\u201d\n\nBackground:\n\nThe federal Minority Business Development Agency\u2019s (MBDA) mission is to promote the growth and global competitiveness of Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) in order to unlock the country\u2019s full economic potential. The MBDA supports a national network of Business Centers and technical assistance programs that help entrepreneurs and small business owners overcome obstacles and grow their businesses.\n\nIn 2018, New Mexico\u2019s previous Minority Business Development Center closed. In 2020, Heinrich authored report language in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Appropriations Bills that required the U.S. Commerce Department\u2019s Minority Business Development Agency to re-open a new Business Center in New Mexico.\n\nHeinrich then worked closely with the City of Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce to secure an initial $300,000 in federal funding to help establish the new Business Center, along with delivering $1.875 million in federal funding to support the first five years of its operations.\n\nIn subsequent funding cycles, Heinrich has secured additional federal resources to expand the staffing and services offered by the Minority Business Development Agency in New Mexico.\n\nIn the FY2023 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich secured $200,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) to help the Business Center hire two more business advisors based in Las Cruces and expand the reach of their services throughout New Mexico.\n\nIn the FY2024 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich secured an additional $200,000 CDS to help the Business Center launch a new technical assistance project that will provide professional business development services to support and promote the growth and success of minority-owned businesses across the state.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich included $300,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending within the FY2025 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Bill, which advanced out of the Senate Appropriations Committee in August, to help the Business Center create a Food and Beverage \u201cNew to Export\u201d Cohort that will provide comprehensive support to business enterprises looking to export their products.\n\nHeinrich recently welcomed the opening of a new Minority Business Development Centerin Las Cruces, thanks to the federal funding he secured in the FY2023 Appropriations Bills, and an additional $183,000 award from the MBDA and $20,000 from the City of Albuquerque to open a new Rural Minority Business Development Center in Las Vegas.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-meets-with-carlsbad-police-and-fire-department-leaders-to-discuss-funding-secured-for-critical-public-safety-equipment-upgrades", "Heinrich Meets with Carlsbad Police and Fire Department Leaders to Discuss Funding Secured for Critical Public Safety Equipment Upgrades", "2024-10-09", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "PHOTOS\n\nHeinrich secured nearly $1 million to support a new Mobile Command Center and new radio and communications equipment that will improve law enforcement operations and emergency response in Eddy County\n\nCARLSBAD, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, met with public safety leaders at the Carlsbad Police Department to hear how nearly $1 million he secured for a forthcoming, new Mobile Command Center and operational radio and communications equipment will improve response times and emergency coordination to help law enforcement agencies in Eddy County keep New Mexicans safe.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) visits with public safety leaders at the Carlsbad Police Department, highlighting plans for a new Mobile Command Center, and discussing new radio and communications equipment that he secured funds for.\n\n\u201cWe need to better equip law enforcement with the tools needed to keep New Mexicans safe, and I\u2019m committed to doing that,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cUpgraded technology will make a real difference for the Carlsbad Police Department, improving emergency response throughout Eddy County and helping first responders serve the community. It's delivering investments like these to support our law enforcement officers and first responders that make me proud to fight for New Mexico on the Senate Appropriations Committee.\u201d\n\nDuring the visit, Heinrich was briefed by the Carlsbad Police Chief Shane Skinner, Carlsbad Mayor Rick Lopez, and Carlsbad Fire Chief Tony Souza on how investments he secured through his seat on the Appropriations Committee for radio and communications equipment \u2014 currently being used by first responders and law enforcement \u2014 is keeping New Mexicans safe. Heinrich additionally highlighted funding he secured for a new Mobile Command Center.\n\nBackground:\n\nHeinrich secured nearly $1 million through the Fiscal Year 2022 Appropriations process for a new Mobile Command Center and new radio and communications equipment to improve response times and emergency coordination to help first responders in Eddy County keep New Mexicans safe.\n\nIn addition to this investment, Heinrich secured $1 million in the FY24 appropriations bill to purchase new National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) ballistics testing machines for law enforcement agencies to use in Las Cruces, Farmington, Gallup, and Roswell. These machines will help law enforcement agencies quickly and effectively identify, solve, and prosecute crimes involving firearms.\n\nPrior to this investment, there were only three NIBIN machines in all of New Mexico: two in Albuquerque and one in Santa Fe.The Roswell NIBIN machinewill create a much closer option for law enforcement agencies in southeastern New Mexico. The intelligence gathered by all of the new NIBIN machines will go to the New Mexico Attorney General\u2019s Crime Gun Intelligence Center where dedicated and trained analysts will use the information to trace and network firearms used in crimes across the state. The Center will then be able to feed that information back to law enforcement agencies to improve identification of suspects and support successful prosecutions.\n\nFor a list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to support law enforcement and first responders across New Mexico, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-unveils-new-bill-support-next-generation-farmers", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Unveils New Bill to Support the Next Generation of Farmers", "2024-10-08", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LAS CRUCES, N.M. \u2013 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) announced the introduction of his bill, the Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act, that supports farmers by creating mentorship programs where experienced farmers can provide hands-on training and guidance to new producers.\n\nIn New Mexico, farming is a way of life that has been passed down through generations. However, many new farmers often face challenges in accessing vital information from federal agencies. The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act ensures that new farmers have access to local, on-the-ground knowledge from experienced farmers who have been cultivating their land for generations.\n\n\u201cMy Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will ensure young, upstart farmers can run productive, sustainable farms by directly connecting them to seasoned growers who understand their challenges,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cOur farming population is aging, and we are facing a significant shortage of skilled new farmers. This program ensures the quick and efficient exchange of local knowledge \u2014 providing beginning farmers with ways to overcome many of their existing barriers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere are no better or more trusted voices for farmers looking to adopt conservation practices than other farmers,\u201d said Samantha Levy, Conservation and Climate Policy Manager for the American Farmland Trust. \u201cWe applaud Rep. Vasquez for introducing a bill that would build the capacity for farmer-to-farmer networks to provide the very support farmers and ranchers \u2014 including young and farmers of color \u2014 need to implement practices critical to the resilience and viability of their operations.\u201d\n\nThe Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will promote regional knowledge exchange by encouraging farmers to share their farming practices and experiences that have worked in the area with new farmers and will improve communication between federal agencies and local farming communities to ensure that all farmers have access to essential information and support. By having someone with firsthand experience address the difficulties that can prevent farmers from trying a new practice, the next generation of farmers will be better equipped to succeed and ensure the longevity of farming in New Mexico.\n\n\u201cThe majority of young and beginning farmers are motivated by stewarding and protecting the land and natural resources. In fact, 83% of young farmers who took the National Young Farmer Survey stated that one of their farm's primary purposes for existing is to \u2018engage in conservation or regeneration,\u2019\u201d said Lotanna Obodozie, Climate Policy Director of National Young Farmers Coalition. \u201cHowever, they are starting their farm businesses in an increasingly uncertain climate. When looking for information on how to adapt to a changing climate, many farming communities already hold deep knowledge on how to build resilience and mitigate climate change in their region. Young farmers just need these connections and resources. The Farmer-to-Farmer Education Act will provide critical investments in farmer-led education, particularly for young farmers and farmers of color, who are already leaders in building resilience and enhancing conservation on their farms.\u201d\n\nAs a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Vasquez is committed to supporting agricultural producers and ensuring that the rich tradition of farming continues to flourish in New Mexico and every corner of the United States.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the American Farmland Trust, National Young Farmers Coalition, National Wildlife Federation, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, La Semilla, The Nature Conservancy, Kiss the Ground, New Mexico Healthy Soils Working Group and more. The full list of endorsements is available HERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-tours-bernalillo-county-emergency-operations-center", "Heinrich Tours Bernalillo County Emergency Operations Center", "2024-10-08", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Heinrich secured $750,000 to redesign and improve technology at the Center helping first responders keep New Mexicans safe\n\nALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, toured the Bernalillo County Emergency Operations Center to see how the $750,000 he secured in Congressionally Directed Spending will make needed improvements and technology upgrades at the Center.\n\nU.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) tours the Bernalillo County Emergency Operations Center on October 8, 2024.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to have secured funding to enhance the Bernalillo County Emergency Operations Center. These improvements will directly support our dedicated firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical responders who work tirelessly to safeguard the health and safety of all New Mexicans,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI will always fight to deliver the resources and tools our first responders need to do their vital, lifesaving work and keep New Mexicans safe.\u201d\n\nDuring his visit, Heinrich was also briefed by Bernalillo County Fire Department Chief Greg Perez, Bernalillo County Emergency Management Director Thomas Walmsley, Bernalillo County Undersheriff Johan Jareno, and Bernalillo County Undersheriff Aaron Williamson on how the millions of dollars in federal investments Heinrich has secured have benefitted local fire and police departments, better equipping first responders with new tools needed to keep New Mexicans safe.\n\nBackground:\n\nIn the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Bill, Heinrich secured $750,000 for Bernalillo County to redesign the Bernalillo County Emergency Operations Center and upgrade the Center\u2019s information technology systems and displays.\n\nIn addition to this investment, Heinrich cosponsored and secured passage of the Fire Grants and Safety Act, which has provided over $15.3 million to local fire departments in New Mexico. Specifically in Bernalillo County, this law has delivered:\n\n$2.4 million for Bernalillo County and its Fire and Rescue Department to recruit and retain firefighters.\n\n$1.6 million for Albuquerque and its Fire Department to recruit and retain firefighters, in addition to new resources needed to better respond to emergencies.\n\nThe Fire Grants and Safety Act, which was recently signed into law by President Joe Biden, reauthorizes two federal grant programs at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). For a full list of investments from this program that have delivered funds across New Mexico, click here.\n\nFor a list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to support law enforcement and first responders all across New Mexico, click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-hosts-democratic-leader-hakeem-jeffries-community-conversation", "Rep. Stansbury Hosts Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries for Community Conversation", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "October 7, 2024\n\nALBUQUERQUE \u2014 Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) was proud to welcome Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries for a community conversation at the New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church in Albuquerque.\n\nThe conversation brought together community members, local leaders, and advocates to discuss pressing issues impacting New Mexicans. Leader Jeffries and Rep. Stansbury touched on a broad range of topics including how Democrats are delivering for Americans in tangible ways like lowering costs for Americans, expanding access to healthcare, protecting the environment, and ensuring our democracy stays secure.\n\n\"I am so proud to welcome Leader Jeffries to our beautiful state and share the stage with him and to showcase all the work Democrats are doing for New Mexicans,\" said Stansbury. \u201cWe have brought millions of dollars back to New Mexico through federal programs, legislation, and Community Project Funding that support education, housing, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. We will continue this momentum - including tackling pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and access to quality education as we continue to work for New Mexico and our communities.\"\n\n\"House Democrats will continue to lean into lowering housing costs and growing the middle class with a particular emphasis on access to affordable homeownership,\" said Leader Jeffries. \"Being able to purchase a home, keeping that home and being able to pass it onto the next generation is central to the great American dream. And we will fight to maintain the principles of free and fair elections and ensure the right to vote, which John Lewis would always say to us, is sacred, is sacrosanct and is essential to the integrity of our democracy. We have to push back against the extreme right-wing efforts to take it away, so one of our top priorities in Congress will be to pass the John Robert Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.\"\n\nFind photos from the event here.\n\nSince taking office, Rep. Stansbury has secured more than a billion dollars in funding for New Mexico\u2019s First Congressional District, including more than $44.5 million for 37 community projects for public safety, economic development, and other needs.\n\nSome of what Congresswoman Stansbury has delivered to New Mexico\u2019s First Congressional District include:\n\nCrime Prevention and Public Safety:\n\nLast month, the Congresswoman introduced the Stop the Opioid Pill Presser and Fentanyl Act (STOPP Fentanyl Act) to disrupt global criminal networks and suppliers of illicit drugs like fentanyl.\n\nBehavioral Health Resources:\n\nIn Congress, Rep. Stansbury has secured millions for NM-01 to improve community well-being through behavioral health-focused solutions. This includes leading efforts to secure funding for mental health and addiction recovery programs, such as workforce development, school-based support, crisis intervention, and veterans\u2019 suicide prevention.\n\nGun Violence and Safety:\n\nCongresswoman Stansbury has cosponsored key bills aimed at addressing gun safety, including the Keep Americans Safe Act, the SAFES Act, the Identify Gun Stores Act, the Gun Violence Prevention Research Act of 2023, the Break the Cycle of Violence Act), and the AMMO Act.\n\nThese bills focus on universal background checks, bans on military-style rifles and untraceable weapons, and enhancing research and oversight related to gun violence and ammunition.\n\nReproductive Rights:\n\nCongresswoman Stansbury voted to defend reproductive rights against the House GOP\u2019s systematic efforts to criminalize abortion and abortion providers.\n\nRep. Stansbury joined other House Democrats to sponsor legislation to restore Roe vs. Wade, condemn violence and attacks on healthcare facilities, personnel, and patients, and to pass the Women\u2019s Health Protection Act.\n\nRep. Stansbury co-sponsored a resolution by House Democrats to condemn attacks on abortion clinics that threaten the safety of patients and health care workers.\n\nRep. Stansbury also voted to pass the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act and the Right to Contraception Act to safeguard access to contraception and the right of pregnant individuals across the nation to travel to seek safe, legal care.\n\nEconomy and Jobs:\n\nRep. Stansbury helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act and her bill the Partnerships for Energy Security and Innovation Act, to invest in our infrastructure, tackle climate change, and build a clean energy economy.\n\nThe Congresswoman led the Rail Worker and Community Safety Act to improve federal rail safety regulations, including mandates for a two-person crew, changing the ways hazardous materials can be transported, increasing funding for rail safety inspectors, and codifies mandatory sick leave for all rail workers.\n\nRep. Stansbury co-sponsored the Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO ACT) which is a comprehensive bill aimed at strengthening labor rights by amending key labor laws to enhance protections for workers, particularly in union organizations and collective bargaining efforts.\n\nWater Access and Water Rights:\n\nSince her time in the New Mexico Statehouse, the Congresswoman has been a leader in fighting for access to clean water and securing water rights for communities across New Mexico.\n\nShe introduced the Water Data Act to establish a framework for standardizing water data across federal agencies, so data is interoperable and easily accessible to water managers and communities.\n\nShe also introduced the Rio Grande Water Security Act providing necessary operational flexibility for water managers in the Rio Grande Basin. The bill also reauthorizes a vital lifeline to address the irrigation infrastructure needs of the Pueblo nations who have used these waters for countless generations.\n\nEnvironmental Justice and Protection:\n\nAlong with her work in other areas, the Congresswoman has been a champion for climate protections and ensuring a just transition occurs during the efforts to address the climate crisis in communities in New Mexico and across the country.\n\nShe co-sponsored several pieces of legislation, including House Resolution 37 \u2013 Acknowledging a Climate Emergency, the Civilian Climate Corps for Jobs and Justice Act, the Environmental Justice For All Act, the Promoting Youth Mental Health and Well-Being in a Changing Climate, the Climate and Health Protection Act, and the Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act.\n\nHousing:\n\nCongresswoman Stansbury has been focused on bringing more affordable housing to New Mexicans and has championed several bills including the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act of 2023, the Expansion of Attainable Homeownership Through Manufactured Housing Act of 2023, the Eviction Protection Act of 2023, the Housing for All Act of 2023, the Ending Homelessness Act of 2023, the Affordable Housing Stability During Shutdowns Act of 2023.\n\nSome of her legislative actions include working closely with local tribal leaders to address concerns regarding a lack of funding to meet tribal housing needs in New Mexico and across the country.\n\nHealthcare:\n\nThe Congresswoman is focused on lowering the costs of healthcare for all New Mexicans and ensuring people who need care can find it when needed. Some of her work includes introducing the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act, the Small Practice, Underserved, and Tural Support Program Extension Act, the Public Health Nursing Act, the Keep Physicians Serving Patients Act, and co-sponsoring the Telehealth Access for Tribal Communities Act of 2024 and the Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-releases-statement-marking-one-year-hamas-attack-israel", "Rep. Stansbury Releases Statement Marking One Year Since Hamas\u2019 Attack on Israel", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Melanie A. Stansbury", "S001218", "stansbury.house.gov", "stansbury", "https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE \u2014 U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement marking one year since the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust:\n\n\u201cToday marks one year since Hamas\u2019 horrific attack on Israel where more than 1,400 Israelis were murdered and hundreds were taken hostage. A year later, we must continue working to ensure the safety and return of the hostages and keep every victim in our hearts - may their memories be a blessing,\" said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. \"This day will forever be remembered as a dark moment in the long history of this region.\n\n\u201cIn the year that has passed and escalating violence in Gaza and across the region, there has been unimaginable human suffering \u2013 tens of thousands of people killed, hundreds of thousands starving \u2013 with Palestinians across Gaza and the West Bank continuing to face violence daily. I commend President Biden for his work with the U.N. Security Council to put forth a viable ceasefire deal. We must continue to push for a ceasefire.\n\n\u201cCentering diplomacy to stem the tides of war and end the catastrophic human suffering is critical as we move forward. As Iran renews aerial attacks on Israel, and Israel goes after Hezbollah within Lebanon, hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians have been caught in the crosshairs of war.\n\n\u201cI continue to renew my call for the Biden Administration to continue pushing to end the war and secure a ceasefire, the return of all hostages, to secure urgent and necessary humanitarian aid to Palestinians and all those suffering, and to ensure American-made weapons are not used for offensive measures. The violence must end, and the U.S. must do everything we can to help secure a permanent and lasting peace.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-delivers-critical-federal-funding-strengthen-public-safety", "Rep. Gabe Vasquez Delivers Critical Federal Funding to Strengthen Public Safety, Community Development and Energy Resilience in Southwestern New Mexico", "2024-10-07", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "LORDSBURG, N.M. - On Monday, October 7, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (N.M.-02) spent the day meeting with officials from Lordsburg and Deming to deliver critical funding for southwestern New Mexico\u2019s communities. Vasquez secured federal investments for the Luna County Mobile Command Center, Lordsburg Community Center and the Southline Transmission Project to strengthen public safety, community development and energy resilience.\n\n\u201cAfter listening to constituents and local leaders, I\u2019m proud to deliver these investments to ensure the safety, well-being and future prosperity of our communities,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cFrom improving public safety with the Luna Mobile Command Center, to providing a hub for families in Lordsburg, to modernizing our energy infrastructure with the Southline Transmission Project, we are building a stronger, more resilient New Mexico. In Congress, I\u2019ll continue to fight for the federal support our district deserves to grow and thrive.\u201d\n\nVasquez secured $500,000 for the Luna Mobile Command Center Project, a crucial investment in public safety that will directly support law enforcement and first responders. The new command center will ensure that emergency personnel have access to better equipment and communication tools to respond swiftly and effectively. This project underscores Vasquez\u2019s commitment to strengthening public safety initiatives, ensuring that local agencies are fully equipped to protect the community and manage emergencies with the highest level of coordination and efficiency.\n\n\u201cWe are so appreciative of Representative Gabe Vasquez, who has always been a good neighbor. I\u2019ve seen him down here countless times and he is always in contact with us. And when it comes to public safety, this is not just a county mobile command unit for the county, but also for state police and Deming police. Without this funding from Representative Vasquez, we could not afford something like this. When you get $500,000, it just shows you the tremendous support we\u2019ve got from Representative Vasquez,\u201d said Luna County Manager Chris Brice.\n\n\u201cI am really appreciative that Luna County was awarded $500,000 to help provide upgrades for law enforcement and the incident command unit. It\u2019s time for an upgrade, and I appreciate Congressman Vasquez for getting this money down to Luna County,\u201d said Luna County Commissioner Ray Trejo.\n\nIn Lordsburg, Vasquez also delivered a $500,000 check for the renovation of the Lordsburg Community Center, a key investment in supporting families and strengthening rural communities. The renovated center will provide expanded recreational opportunities for local families and youth, offering a safe and welcoming space for children. It will also serve as a hub for community gatherings and events, creating new opportunities for residents to come together. This project reflects Vasquez\u2019s commitment to enhancing quality of life in rural New Mexico.\n\n\u201cI want to commend Representative Gabe Vasquez and the City of Lordsburg for taking the initiative to make some community improvements here. In rural New Mexico it seems like we are always forgotten. When we have someone like Representative Vasquez looking out for our small community, we know that we\u2019ll see some economic growth here,\u201d said Hidalgo County Manager Tisha Green.\n\nVasquez was also joined by leaders for the Southline Transmission Project to highlight a significant step forward for New Mexico\u2019s clean energy future. Last week, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced that the Southline Transmission Project has been chosen as one of five recipients as part of a $1.5 billion commitment to improve the electric grid nationwide. With this funding, Southline will construct the second phase of its project to deliver 1,000 megawatts of new capacity between Hidalgo County and Las Cruces, lowering utility bills for New Mexicans. As one of his first acts in office, Vasquez wrote to DOE in support of the Southline Transmission Project to bring high-paying jobs to rural communities and invest in New Mexico\u2019s renewable energy future.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m very appreciative of Representative Vasquez and our Congressional Delegation for doing the work to bring money back to rural New Mexico. The Transmission Siting and Economic Development grant program is going to create great economic opportunities for the city of Lordsburg and the residents of Hidalgo County through infrastructure improvement, downtown revitalization and entrepreneur training. We\u2019re excited to have this here in Lordsburg and ready to get started,\u201d saidEmily Gojkovich, Lordsburg Economic Development Specialist.\n\nSince serving New Mexico in Congress, Vasquez has been fighting for our district\u2019s fair share of funding. Each year, Congress is responsible for passing Appropriations legislation to fund federal agencies. After hearing directly from constituents about what the federal budget should prioritize, Vasquez submitted 15 proposals for Community Project Funding each year on an array of issues ranging from supporting families to public safety investments to infrastructure improvements.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-tonko-introduce-legislation-to-increase-access-to-buprenorphine-save-lives", "Heinrich, Tonko Introduce Legislation to Increase Access to Buprenorphine, Save Lives", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) introduced the Broadening Utilization of Proven and Effective Treatment for Recovery Act, or BUPE for Recovery Act, legislation to increase access to buprenorphine \u2014 a lifesaving drug used to treat opioid use disorder \u2014 by removing barriers providers and patients face when trying to access the medication.\n\n\u201cNew Mexicans know too well the heartache of losing a loved one to opioids. Enough is enough. We need an all-hands-on-deck approach to tackle this epidemic with the urgency it demands, which includes eliminating barriers that providers and patients face in accessing lifesaving medication,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cMy legislation aims to change reporting requirements for buprenorphine, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective treatment for opioid use disorder. This will help save lives and help New Mexicans get the care they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor years, I\u2019ve worked to address this disease of addiction and secure access to lifesaving treatments for the millions of Americans working to find and follow the path to recovery,\u201d said Tonko. \u201cA lynchpin of my efforts to address the opioid crisis is my MAT Act that eliminates outdated, bureaucratic barriers preventing practitioners from prescribing the proven treatment, buprenorphine, to their patients. Our newest bill, the BUPE for Recovery Act further strengthens our push to expand accessibility to this lifesaving drug. I thank Senator Heinrich for spearheading this effort with me and urge my colleagues to join us in advancing this legislation as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nThe BUPE for Recovery Act temporarily exempts buprenorphine from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration\u2019s (DEA) Suspicious Orders Report System (SORS) requirements during the opioid public health emergency. SORS reporting requirements have led to an uncertainty among pharmacies and distributors to stock and dispense buprenorphine, which can prevent individuals suffering from opioid use disorder from receiving timely and effective treatment.\n\nThis legislation will mitigate the treatment gap created by stringent SORS reporting requirements, reducing overdose deaths, saving lives, and improving public health outcomes.\n\nThe BUPE for Recovery Act is endorsed by the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Medical Association (AMA), American Nurses Association, American Pharmacists Association (APhA), American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW), Faces & Voices of Recovery, Overdose Prevention Initiative at GHAI, International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), Kent Strategic Advisors, LLC, The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP), National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH), National Behavioral Health Association of Providers, National Black Harm Reduction Network (NBHRN), National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), The Kennedy Forum, Treatment Communities of America, Addiction Professionals of North Carolina, California Consortium of Addiction Programs & Professionals, Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA), New Mexico American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, and the National League for Nursing.\n\n\"Over a million Americans have died from a drug overdose since 1999, exposing millions more to devastating, personal loss,\u201d said Dr. Brian Hurley, President of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). \u201cPolicymakers must focus on advancing policies to ensure that pharmacists can fulfill their core function to dispense lawful prescriptions for addiction medications. We thank Senator Heinrich for his leadership in introducing Broadening Utilization of Proven and Effective Treatment for Recovery Act, which would temporarily exempt buprenorphine products approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder from the federal Suspicious Orders Report System and related reporting requirements. ASAM looks forward to working with lawmakers to ensure this vital legislation is enacted swiftly.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the past several years, New Mexico has made substantial investments to treat substance use disorders and prevent overdoses. At the federal level, significant barriers have been removed for prescribing medications for opioid use disorder, like buprenorphine. Unfortunately, stringent reporting requirements for buprenorphine continue to hinder our progress in the fight against the opioid epidemic. New Mexico ACEP strongly supports legislation that will remove buprenorphine from the Suspicious Orders Reports System and increase access to this evidence-based treatment,\" said Scott Mueller, DO, FACEP, President of the New Mexico Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians (NMACEP).\n\n\u201cBuprenorphine is a life saving medication proven to reduce the risk of overdose deaths in individuals with opioid use disorder. Despite strong evidence for the effectiveness of buprenorphine, patients face far too many unnecessary barriers getting this medication. The American Medical Association urges that suspicious order reporting requirements not be triggered based upon orders for buprenorphine and their fulfillment, as buprenorphine has been approved by the FDA for opioid use disorder. If buprenorphine products remain in the Drug Enforcement Administration\u2019s suspicious order reporting requirements, patients will continue to suffer. It is imperative to increase access to buprenorphine to save lives,\u201d said Bobby Mukkamala, MD, President-elect of the American Medical Association and Chair of the AMA Substance Use and Pain Care Task Force.\n\nA summary of the bill is here. The text of the bill is here.\n\nHeinrich has continuously worked to make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available.\n\nIn the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS)Appropriations Bill, Heinrich successfully included language directing the DEA to take further action to remove barriers to access for opioid use disorder medications such as buprenorphine. The inclusion of this language will assist local medical and mental health providers and make medications, including buprenorphine, more accessible to New Mexicans.\n\nFind an extensive list of Heinrich\u2019s actions to tackle the fentanyl crisis and make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/nm-delegation-welcomes-185-million-for-albuquerque-based-pajarito-powder-to-boost-advanced-energy-manufacturing-create-60-new-jobs", "N.M. Delegation Welcomes $18.5 Million for Albuquerque-Based Pajarito Powder to Boost Advanced Energy Manufacturing, Create 60 New Jobs", "2024-10-04", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming $18,449,999, from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for Pajarito Powder, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based company, to boost manufacturing of advanced energy technologiesand create 60 direct manufacturing jobs.\n\nThe DOE has awarded Pajarito Powder with a $8,450,000 grant to increase its production of hydrogen electrolyzer catalysts, one of the few companies in the country producing these catalysts, and a $9,999,999 grant to scale up manufacturing of hydrogen fuel cell catalysts.\n\n\u201cThis major investment will further solidify New Mexico\u2019s role as a leader in advanced energy manufacturing, creating 60 new high-quality jobs and helping to grow our economy,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to have worked alongside Pajarito Powder to secure this federal investment and will continue fighting to keep New Mexico at the center of clean energy innovation. Our state is the best place in America to manufacture cutting-edge technologies and build industries of the future \u2014 creating high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around, and producing cleaner, more affordable American-made energy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis nearly $18.5 million investment through the Department of Energy for Pajarito Powder will further New Mexico\u2019s production of advanced energy technologies and create dozens of good-paying manufacturing jobs for the Albuquerque area,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cI\u2019m proud to welcome this federal funding and will continue to work to secure resources to ensure New Mexico remains a leader in the manufacturing of advanced energy technologies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis $18.4 million from the Department of Energy sets New Mexico on course to be a leader in advanced energy technologies,\u201d said Fern\u00e1ndez. \u201cThis is a major investment in our state\u2019s economy and will create good-paying jobs while ensuring America continues to innovate, compete, and succeed.\u201d\n\n\"Manufacturing drives the country, and I am honored to see that sector growing in New Mexico,\" said Stansbury. \"This $18.5 million for Pajarito Powder will push energy production forward and give 60 people jobs in Albuquerque. Every job and every piece of funding shows the continued strength of our economy. Manufacturing has a bright future in New Mexico and the United States, all thanks to the work of the Biden Administration.\"\n\n\u201cNew Mexico continues to lead the way in sustainable energy manufacturing. That's why I'm proud to welcome $18.5 million for Pajarito Powder to accelerate clean energy innovation right here in Albuquerque,\" said Vasquez. \"This investment will create 60 good-paying jobs and strengthen our role in advancing critical technologies like hydrogen. By supporting companies like Pajarito, we\u2019re building a cleaner, more sustainable economy that benefits all New Mexicans.\u201d\n\n\u201cDomestic development and manufacture of advanced catalysts for fuel cell and green hydrogen generation are crucial goals for DOE,\u201d said Pajarito Powder Chief Operating Officer Dr. Michele Ostraat, who is Principal Investigator on both projects. \u201cThe catalysts that Pajarito Powder has developed will be manufactured at ever-increasing scales and will make New Mexico a significant player in the domestic hydrogen supply chain.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese awards are crucial for the major scale-up of catalyst manufacturing,\u201d said Pajarito Powder Chief Executive Officer Thomas J. Stephenson. \u201cWidespread industrial decarbonization, using these catalysts, can only be achieved through significant scale-up.\u201d\n\nHeinrich has been fighting hard to pass legislation and secure investments that are lowering costs, growing the state\u2019s economy, and expanding high-quality manufacturing jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.\n\nIn 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation\u2019s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.\n\nEarlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells. Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M.\n\nIn June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Stansbury, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.\n\nIn April, Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus \u2014 a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque\u2019s Westside \u2014 which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.\n\nThat same day, Heinrich, Granholm, and Vasquez participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the production of the first wind towers coming off the Arcosa Wind Towers manufacturing line. The ribbon-cutting ceremony came nearly nine months after Heinrich welcomed President Biden to the Bel\u00e9n manufacturing facility \u2014 a $60 million investment that will have a $314 million economic impact and create 250 jobs in the region.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-heinrich-lujan-welcome-infrastructure-law-investment-southline", "Vasquez, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n Welcome Infrastructure Law Investment In Southline Transmission Project In Southern New Mexico", "2024-10-03", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "House", "NM", "Gabe Vasquez", "V000136", "vasquez.house.gov", "vasquez", "https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) welcomed the U.S. Department of Energy\u2019s (DOE) announcement that its Grid Deployment Office (GDO) is investing $1.5 billion for five electric transmission projects\u2014 including the Southline Transmission Project in southern New Mexico.\n\nThe funding will come from the Grid Deployment Office\u2019s (GDO) Transmission Facilitation Program (TFP), a revolving fund program established by the Infrastructure Law that Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Democrats in the New Mexico Congressional Delegation championed into law. The TFP helps overcome the financial hurdles facing transmission development through a number of innovative financing mechanisms.\n\n\u201cFrom my first day in office, I have worked to support generational projects like Southline that realize New Mexico\u2019s potential to help power our clean energy future. This investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will connect high voltage transmission from Las Cruces through Hidalgo County, opening up incredible potential for renewable energy development in our district,\u201d said Vasquez. \u201cI will always work to bring transformational investments to our district that help provide good, high paying jobs for our rural communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe investments that we unlocked through our Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act are solidifying New Mexico\u2019s leadership in building a cleaner, healthier, and more affordable energy future,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cHigh-voltage transmission projects like Southline will be the backbone of our clean energy transition, delivering carbon-free power generated in New Mexico to market. They will also create high-quality careers that New Mexicans can build their families around, in their home communities. To get more transmission projects like Southline and SunZia built faster so we can connect more large-scale clean energy and storage projects onto the grid, it\u2019s critical that Congress pass transmission permitting reform. I will continue pressing leaders from both parties to pass legislation to get that done.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in transmission projects is critical to deliver reliable, affordable, clean energy to communities across New Mexico,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cThis investment in the second phase of the transformative Southline project will help boost our power grid, bring good-paying clean energy jobs to our state, and lower energy costs for New Mexicans and residents in the Southwest. I\u2019m proud to have helped secure this federal investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I will continue to unlock federal resources to advance clean energy projects across our state.\u201d\n\nWith this funding, Southline will construct the second phase of its project: a new 108-mile, 345 kV high-voltage alternating current line that will deliver 1,000 MW of new, bidirectional capacity between Hidalgo County, New Mexico and Las Cruces, New Mexico.\n\nIn August, Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n, and Vasquez also welcomed $1.8 million from DOE for the City of Lordsburg. As a community hosting the Southline Transmission Project, the City will launch the Lordsburg Revitalization Project, a comprehensive investment to renovate downtown Lordsburg and bolster economic development; create opportunities for small businesses; and catalyze job growth. This grant was made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act, which was passed by Democrats in the N.M. Delegation, and is funded through DOE\u2019s Transmission Siting and Economic Development Grant Program, a new initiative designed to overcome state and local challenges to expanding transmission capacity while also supporting communities along major new and upgraded lines.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"], ["https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-introduce-resolution-recognizing-latina-equal-pay-day", "Heinrich, Luj\u00e1n Introduce Resolution Recognizing Latina Equal Pay Day", "2024-10-03", "2024", "2024-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NM", "Martin Heinrich", "H001046", "www.heinrich.senate.gov", "heinrich", "https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. \u2014 To celebrate Latina Equal Pay Day today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.) introduced a Senate resolution recognizing October 3, 2024, as Latina Equal Pay Day.\n\nMore than 50 years after the passage of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, Latinas make up the second largest group of women workers in the U.S\u2014yet they are paid 57 cents for every dollar paid to white men, losing over $1,200,000 in potential earnings over a 40 year career. This resolution recognizes the disparity in wages paid to Latina women and reaffirms support to ensure equal pay for equal work and close the gender pay gap.\n\n\u201cFrom driving small business growth to leading labor movements, Latinas have grown and transformed our economy and workplaces for the better. On Latina Equal Pay Day, we honor their remarkable accomplishments and contributions, while recognizing the ongoing work needed to achieve equal pay for equal work,\u201d said Heinrich. \u201cThis day and every day, I remain committed to fighting for a fair economy for all New Mexicans, raising the minimum wage, and expanding opportunities for a brighter future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThroughout history, Latinas have helped propel our economy and have long contributed to the fabric of America,\u201d said Luj\u00e1n. \u201cDespite their contributions to building our country, their pay has not been reflective of their work. Today, on Latina Equal Pay Day, I\u2019m proud to partner with Senator Heinrich to introduce this resolution to recognize the contributions of Latinas and highlight the ongoing fight for equal pay for equal work. I will continue to fight for workers across New Mexico and the country to secure equal pay for equal work and close the gender pay gap once and for all.\u201d\n\nThe resolution is led by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). Alongside Heinrich and Luj\u00e1n, the resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)., Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Illi.), Amy Klobuchar (D-M.N.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), George Helmy (D-N.J.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.). The companion resolution is led in the House by U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fern\u00e1ndez (D-N.M.).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T21:57:20Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 537, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "NM", "p2": "2024"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 537, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NM&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 342, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}, {"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 195, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "NM", "label": "NM", "count": 537, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2024", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024", "results": [{"value": "2024", "label": "2024", "count": 537, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2024-10-03,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eheinrich~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Fheinrich-lujan-introduce-resolution-recognizing-latina-equal-pay-day", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NM&year=2024&_next=2024-10-03%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eheinrich~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Fheinrich-lujan-introduce-resolution-recognizing-latina-equal-pay-day&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 183.88735922053456, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}