url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/2025-review-rep-vasquez-delivered-big-bipartisan-wins-new-mexico,"2025 in Review: Rep. Vasquez Delivered Big, Bipartisan Wins for New Mexico",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a year marked by partisan gridlock and politics, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) managed to put common sense over D.C. dysfunction to deliver big, bipartisan wins for New Mexicans.

In 2025, seven of Rep. Vasquez’s bipartisan bills were signed into law by President Trump, including:

Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act – boosts resources for aerial wildfire suppression to better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfires

Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act – restores $9 million in annual federal support for rural New Mexico counties to fund essential infrastructure like roads and schools

TRICARE Travel Improvement Act – expands access to medical travel reimbursement for military families by lowering the mileage threshold under TRICARE Prime to 75 miles, helping families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who routinely drive up to 95 miles each way for care

Wolf and Livestock Fairness Act – ensures ranchers are made whole when wolves kill their livestock by raising federal reimbursement from 75% to 100%

Downwinder Commemoration Act– directs the Department of Defense to establish permanent memorials at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base honoring New Mexican Downwinders impacted by the 1945 Trinity Test

COUNTERAct – combats national security risks posed by unidentified drones by bolstering military base commanders’ counter-drone authorities

Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act – allows schools to serve whole milk to ensure that students receive the many health benefits and nutrients whole milk provides to young Americans

In addition to fighting to pass the above pieces of practical, bipartisan legislation, Rep. Vasquez remained laser-focused on protecting his constituents from extreme Republican plans to jack up the price of health care and other essentials like food and utilities. He also introduced legislation to protect New Mexican renters from being priced out of their homes by greedy, corporate landlords.

“From boosting New Mexico’s ability to fight wildfires to protecting our rural schools and roads to ensuring our military families can access the health care they deserve, every day I am working to make life better for New Mexicans. I am proud that the seven bipartisan bills I led to passage this year will do just that,” said Vasquez. “Whether they voted for me or not, I represent all New Mexicans who call our district home, and these are the folks I work for — not any one political party or special interest group.”

Other wins Rep. Vasquez delivered in 2025 for New Mexicans included:

Returned $4.5 Million to NM Taxpayers: In 2025, Rep. Vasquez supported New Mexicans when they needed it most. His team resolved 654 constituent cases this year, including 59 cases with the IRS, Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and more, helping folks navigate red tape and bureaucracy to make the federal government work for them and returning nearly $4.5 million to taxpayers who were rightfully owed.

Kept Public Lands in Public Hands: The Congressman built a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers — the first-ever Public Lands Caucus — and successfully blocked extreme Republicans’ attempts to sell off millions of acres of public lands.

Secured Federal Dollars for Smart Investments Back Home: Rep. Vasquez also worked hard to secure federal grants to improve life in New Mexico, including:

$11 million to address homelessness in New Mexico

$745,000 for rural New Mexico airports to improve safety and boost local economies

$4 million for new Las Cruces-El Paso Express Bus Service

$500,000 for the Las Cruces Fire Department to train 15 additional paramedics

$850,000 to construct a workforce training center in Bayard, NM

$1 million to construct a public meeting space and multi-use community area in the Mesilla Town Hall

Went the Extra Mile: New Mexico’s second Congressional district is roughly the size of Pennsylvania — one of the largest in the country — but that didn’t stop Rep. Vasquez from going the extra mile to hear from his constituents directly. In 2025, he traveled over 5,000 miles across New Mexico’s second district and visited 14 counties and five Tribal nations to make sure New Mexicans’ voices are heard and acted on.

Put Constituent Service First: With over 190 stakeholder meetings and nearly 35,000 constituent letters, Rep. Vasquez stayed in constant contact with New Mexicans. He also made sure the doors to his D.C. office were always wide open to welcome New Mexicans, and his team provided 104 tours of the Capitol to groups visiting from the Land of Enchantment.

Introduced a New, Commonsense Immigration Plan: As someone raised on both sides of the border who now represents 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, the Congressman knows both parties have gotten immigration and border security wrong for far too long. That’s why he introduced his New American Immigration Plan — a commonsense path forward to secure our borders, grow our economy, live up to our American values, and create strategic pathways to legal status.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-speed-act-vote,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on SPEED Act Vote,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on his vote on the SPEED Act:

“I strongly believe in an all-of-the-above energy approach. Southeast New Mexico is blessed with an abundance of natural energy resources, and I will always support smart energy policies that cut red tape and ensure our district remains an American energy powerhouse.”

“Our energy producers have made it clear that to unleash our district’s full energy production potential, something must be done to slash costly regulatory delays, ease onerous permitting processes, and boost certainty for projects across the energy spectrum. Unfortunately, the SPEED Act goes too far and fails to deliver the permitting predictability New Mexico’s energy producers need across all energy sources.”

Rep. Vasquez engaged in bipartisan, good faith negotiations to improve the SPEED Act, including leading a letter to House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman urging changes to the bill to make the permitting process more efficient and reduce energy costs for New Mexicans. However, the final bill failed to include provisions that would treat all energy sectors equally regardless of the political party in power, protect meaningful consultation with local and Tribal leaders, and increase certainty for American investments.

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen how shifting policies from one administration to the next lead to stalled energy projects and make long-term planning impossible, and we cannot afford to leave our energy producers exposed to this political pendulum. That’s why I’m proud to be leading the CERTAIN Act, a bipartisan solution that protects the permitting process for all types of energy projects from undue political interference.”

Congressman Vasquez is a strong advocate for smart energy policies that support New Mexico’s economy, prioritize domestic energy production to meet growing demand, lower electricity bills, and support the men and women who work every day to keep our lights on.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-venezuela-blockade,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Venezuela Blockade,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 17, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement in response to the administration’s blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela.

“This Administration is actively eroding the most basic Constitutional checks and balances for the use of military force, and it’s gravely concerning. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I stand by the Constitution and by our troops — we must follow the law and rules of engagement.”

“Declaring war on a foreign government and sending American servicemembers into harm’s way is a solemn decision, and our Founding Fathers made it clear — only Congress has the power to declare war. The Administration owes it to the American people to respect the Constitution and provide evidence and transparency around what it is really doing with our taxpayer dollars in the Caribbean and Venezuela.”

“The last thing Americans want is another drawn-out conflict in a faraway place that does nothing to make their lives better. I’m from our southern border, so I firmly believe we must be doing everything we can to combat bad actors and cartels smuggling drugs into our country. That means investing in smart border technology and supporting our law enforcement officers, not pouring our resources into a conflict with a weak nation, which won’t solve the fentanyl crisis here at home.”

“Escalating hostilities in Venezuela will drive up energy prices for Americans and funnel taxpayer money away from things that actually matter here at home. My constituents are worried about the price of groceries and making rent on time, yet the Administration chooses to focus on starting new conquests overseas — it’s wrong, and we must refocus.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-stansbury-davids-bonamici-and-senators-kim-and-merkley-introduce-talents,"Reps. Stansbury, Davids, Bonamici and Senators Kim and Merkley Introduce TALENTS Act to Protect and Strengthen Federal Leadership Pipeline",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Reps. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Sharice Davids (D-KS), and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) today announced the introduction of the Training Aspiring Leaders Emerging Now to Serve (TALENTS) Act, to codify and strengthen the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) Program—one of the federal government’s premier leadership development initiatives.

Since 1977, the PMF Program has served as a cornerstone of federal workforce development, placing a highly accomplished cohort of emerging leaders into government agencies each year. The program has been a vital pipeline to strengthen public service and elevate the next generation of civil service leaders. However, in February, President Trump terminated the program through executive order after more than four decades of existence.

“Without the Presidential Management Fellows Program, I likely would not have ended up in federal service,” said Congresswoman Stansbury. The PMF Program has long served as a pipeline for the next generation of federal leaders, bringing highly qualified talent from across the country to serve our nation. I am proud to colead this legislation to restore and build upon this program at a time when we need America’s best and brightest to address the challenges we face.”

“Programs like the Presidential Management Fellows are how we bring the next generation of talented public servants into government,” said Rep. Davids (D-KS). “It also gives federal agencies a pool of highly qualified, pre-vetted candidates, saving them time and resources in hiring. Gutting this pipeline doesn’t make government work better for everyday Americans — it makes it weaker and harder to navigate. This bill keeps that pipeline intact so we can continue bringing top talent into public service, and I’m glad to support it.”

""Creating more pathways for post-graduate students to enter into public service will benefit our country for generations to come,” said Rep. Bonamici (D-OR).“The late President Carter created the Presidential Management Fellowship Program more than four decades ago to encourage and support talented young professionals from all walks of life who want to pursue a career in public service. I enthusiastically join Congresswoman Stansbury and our Senate counterparts on this legislation to put the PMF program into law so these opportunities continue for future generations.”

The companion legislation is led in the Senate by Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR).

“I’m a proud alumnus of the PMF program. I’ve seen the impact it can have on young people who just want to give back to their community,” said Senator Kim. “Creating these pathways to serve is bigger than politics, it helps ensure the next generation is working to build a better future for us all, and that’s why we need this program codified into the law. I’m grateful to see this effort now in the House thanks to Representatives Stansbury, Bonamici, and Davids so we can have a bicameral push to get this done.”

The legislation is endorsed by the Partnership for Public Service, The Volcker Alliance, and the Presidential Management Alumni Association (PMAA).

“For almost fifty years, the PMF was the government’s premier early-career on ramp program, launching the careers of thousands of our most decorated public servants,” said Sara Mogulescu, President, The Volcker Alliance. “Its cancellation earlier this year undermines our nation’s proud legacy of service and chokes off a key source of skilled professionals that agencies need to meet their commitments to Americans. The TALENTS Act is an important step toward restoring the PMF program and investing in the next generation of government leaders.”

“Congresswoman Stansbury’s initiative restarts a professional development program for future public service leaders to prepare to address the nation’s daunting public management challenges that are headed our way. This forward looking legislation will effectively reestablish the American tradition to select future public service leaders based on merit and experience to a professional calling inspired by motivation to serve the nation’s citizens as the primary aspiration,"" said Former NASA Administrator and Secretary of the Navy Sean O’Keefe. O'Keefe was a member of the 1978 inaugural class of the Presidential Management Intern Program, and has since retired from federal service after several public management experiences.

“Our country faces significant challenges, and our federal government will need the talents of future federal leaders to solve them,” said The Partnership for Public Service. “The Partnership for Public Service applauds the introduction of the TALENTS Act and thanks Rep. Melanie Stansbury for championing a path to service for the next generation of federal workers.”

The PMF Program has long been a flagship leadership development initiative, placing a cohort of a few hundred individuals into government agencies each year following a competitive and rigorous selection process. At the end of their two-year fellowship, many Fellows go on to become high-ranking federal officials. The TALENTS Act would codify the regulations that structured the PMF Program for over four decades, prevent it from being eliminated by presidential executive orders, make targeted improvements to the program, and strengthen Congress’s role in supporting and protecting it.

The TALENTS Act would place the PMF Program into statute to prevent its elimination by executive action, reinforce congressional oversight, and implement targeted improvements to ensure the federal government continues to attract and retain top public service talent.

The bill text can be found here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/stansbury-introduces-claim-act-advance-fair-mining-claims-and-protect-public,Stansbury Introduces CLAIM Act to Advance Fair Mining Claims and Protect Public Lands,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) today introduced the Conserving Lands and Areas Incompatible with Mining (CLAIM) Act of 2025. This legislation seeks to modernize mining fee practices on federal lands and ensure the public is properly compensated after years of taxpayer giveaways to large corporate mining companies.

In a massive giveaway to mining companies that were already benefitting from an outdated mining fee system from the 1800s, Trump and the GOPs Big Ugly Bill—provided additional massive giveaways to large multinational mining corporations. This includes opening lands to extensive mining and lowering royalty rates, essentially allowing corporations to hold valuable mining claims on public lands while paying egregiously low fees. As a result, thousands of acres and sensitive ecosystems are at risk, taxpayers have been shortchanged, and critical cleanup and conservation needs have gone unmet.

The CLAIM Act seeks to correct these failures by modernizing mining claim maintenance fees and ensuring that companies pay a fair price for the privilege of accessing claims on lands owned by the American people—particularly those in proximity to important places like national parks, monuments, and culturally significant sites. Protecting sensitive public lands at this moment from mining operations is especially important as the Administration has targeted vast public lands for sale and lease, including even some of our most sacred landscapes. This includes sites such as Oak Flat in Arizona which is sacred to multiple Apache Nations in Arizona and New Mexico.

“As Trump is prepared to sell our most precious public lands to the lowest bidder, we’re fighting to protect our lands and the public trust,” said Rep. Stansbury. “With the CLAIM Act, we’re working to protect sacred and important landscapes from unchecked development, while ensuring taxpayers get a fair return for the resources that belong to all of us.”

This bill is also cosponsored by Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA).

The legislation is endorsed by The National Parks Conservation Association, The Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, The Native Organizers Alliance Action Fund, and The Wilderness Society.

Statement by Charlie Olsen, Energy and Public Lands Policy Manager at the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA): “If we don’t act now, our national parks risk becoming industrial mining zones. We know the next boom-and-bust rush for critical minerals is coming for our public lands, and this bill takes long-overdue steps to protect our national parks and our American heritage. The CLAIM Act is a promising step that brings balance to our mining system, steering new mining claims away from national parks and ensuring the public isn’t the only one left footing the cleanup costs. Nobody wants mining in or near our national parks. We urge Congress to support commonsense reforms like this to better balance responsible mining practices with the preservation of our exceptional national parks.”

Statement by Emily Thompson, Executive Director of The Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks: “We should not simply sell off our public land to the highest bidder. It’s bad policy and terrible for our public lands. For more than a century, the federal mining system has operated on an outdated premise: that public lands should be handed over—effectively free of charge—to whoever stakes a claim first. This outdated system leaves taxpayers footing the bill for abandoned mines, environmental damage, and the protection of cultural resources—while some of the most valuable public lands in the country are tied up by speculative claims. The CLAIM Act would finally bring this antiquated system into the 21st century. By creating a tiered claim maintenance fee structure that aligns fees with land value, the bill discourages mining speculators from sitting on claims near national parks, monuments, and other irreplaceable landscapes. Congress should pass it without delay.”

Statement by Tremayne Nez, Policy Director at The Native Organizers Alliance Action Fund (NOAAF): ""Native Organizers Alliance Action Fund (NOAAF) support the Conserving Lands and Areas Incompatible with Mining (CLAIM) Act because our public lands, waters, and sacred places deserve protections that advance responsible stewardship for future generations. For Tribal Nations and Native communities, this bill helps expose how much of our homelands are being given away to mining interests in the rush for harmful resource extraction, with no regard to the people who rely on these lands. It also ensures safeguards from extraction near National Parks, monuments, and Tribally significant areas.""

Statement by Isabella Jaramillo, Government Relations Representative at The Wilderness Society:“We applaud Representative Stansbury for taking this step toward long-awaited reforms to the outdated federal mining system, which currently hands public lands over to mining companies with very few safeguards in place. The CLAIM Act would discourage mining claims from some of our most special public lands, ensure companies clean up after themselves and pay a responsible fee to hold claims. Congress should pass this bill and reject threats to our freedom to breathe clean air, drink clean water and access public lands, all in the name of a fictitious energy emergency.""

Dr. Valerie Grussing, Executive Director for Legislative Affairs & Strategic Partnerships at the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (NATHPO): “Because America's public lands are part of the ancestral homelands of our Tribal Nations, it only makes sense to dedicate a portion of the fees for mining leases on those lands to support the Tribal Historic Preservation Officers who review those leases to ensure sacred places and cultural resources are protected. We appreciate the work of Congresswoman Stansbury to introduce this important legislation and look forward to continuing to work with her on this issue.”

The CLAIM Act introduces an updated mine claim maintenance fee structure that:

Aligns fees with land value, discouraging speculative claims near national parks and monuments.

Creates a dedicated funding stream for abandoned mine cleanup, Tribal cultural resource protection, and other vital programs.

Ensures industry pays responsibly for the privilege of accessing claims on lands with exceptional public value.

Would double revenue generated by the annual claim maintenance fee to the American taxpayer.

The bill text can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-votes-no-national-defense-authorization-act,"Rep. Stansbury Votes ""NO"" on National Defense Authorization Act",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after voting ""NO"" on the annual National Defense Authorization Act of 2025:

""In New Mexico, we have a long and proud history of military service, and we honor our service members and veterans every day. I am proud of the bipartisan work on the National Defense Authorization Act this year, which has yielded significant wins for New Mexico, including a long-overdue pay raise of 3.8% for our service members, funding for Kirtland Air Force Base, and language we secured to hold DOD and DOE accountable for the cleanup of munitions on tribal lands, including at Isleta Pueblo. I am also grateful for bipartisan negotiations that removed some of the more harmful provisions in the bill, increased oversight over the Administration’s DOD activities, and restored funding for our European allies against Russian aggression, which the Administration zeroed out.

""However, as a Member of the House Oversight Committee, I cannot in good conscience vote for a bill that authorizes over $900 billion in military spending while the President has turned his back on our allies in his National Security Strategy, is deploying U.S. troops on U.S. soil, and his Secretary of Defense is being investigated for potentially illegal strikes and military build-up in the Caribbean. Furthermore, the discriminatory thumbprint of this White House is evident throughout this bill with the inclusion of anti-transgender language, the removal of coverage for IVF, and continued attacks on diversity across our nation’s proud service members.

""As such, I am grateful for the good that will come from provisions that will help New Mexico, but I must vote no in these extraordinary times, as this bill fails to rein in a President and Defense Secretary who are daily defying the Constitution, law, and values of this country.""

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-passes-national-defense-bill-secures-major-wins-new-mexico,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Passes National Defense Bill, Secures Major Wins for New Mexico",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, December 10, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), delivering vital investments for New Mexico’s military installations, service members, and national laboratories.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I fought to ensure this year’s defense bill reflects the needs of New Mexico’s military families and makes smart investments that leave the U.S. stronger and safer,” said Vasquez. “From expanding access to care for rural service members to delivering long-overdue recognition to New Mexico’s Downwinders, this is a bipartisan win that honors those who have served and delivers real, meaningful progress for New Mexico.”

Vasquez’s bipartisan TRICARE Travel Improvement Act was passed in the final NDAA. His legislation expands access to medical travel reimbursement for military families by lowering the mileage threshold under TRICARE Prime to 75 miles. This provision will directly help families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who routinely drive up to 95 miles each way for care.

The bill also includes Vasquez’s Downwinder Commemoration Act, which directs the Department of Defense to establish memorials at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base honoring New Mexicans impacted by the 1945 Trinity Test. By permanently commemorating the suffering endured by New Mexico’s Downwinder community, this bill delivers long-overdue recognition and preserves their legacy for future generations.

Vasquez also secured bipartisan passage of the COUNTER Act, which strengthens the ability of base commanders to defend installations like White Sands Missile Range against dangerous drone incursions.

Alongside these wins, the FY26 NDAA provides a 3.8% pay raise for service members and authorizes $1.5 billion for upgrades to quality of life infrastructure such as barracks, family housing, and child development centers. The bill also authorizes significant investments in New Mexico’s military infrastructure, including upgrades at White Sands Missile Range, Cannon Air Force Base, Kirtland Air Force Base, and the Santa Fe Army National Guard Training Center, as well as major support for Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories. These investments will strengthen national security, create jobs, and support New Mexico’s role in cutting-edge research and defense readiness.

“This year’s NDAA reflects the priorities I have heard firsthand from service members and their families across southern New Mexico,” said Vasquez. “We are improving quality of life, protecting rural jobs, and making sure our state continues to play a central role in our national defense.”

The bill now moves to the Senate for final passage. “Servicemembers and their families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket just to access basic medical care,” said SenatorMartin Heinrich (D-N.M.), who is leading the Senate version of the TRICARE Travel Improvement Act. “I’m proud that my commonsense legislation to ensure they’re reimbursed for travel and can get the high-quality care they’ve earned was included in the conferenced NDAA and passed the House. I'll keep fighting to get this bill passed through the Senate and signed into law.”

The full list of New Mexico NDAA provisions can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-introduces-bipartisan-secure-our-skies-drone-safety-act-modernize,Rep. Vasquez Introduces Bipartisan Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act to Modernize Law Enforcement Efforts,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 10, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act to ensure that law enforcement agencies’ use of drones and counter-drone technology are keeping pace with rapidly evolving threats to public safety and national security. Law enforcement officers have applauded this Fraternal Order of Police-endorsed bill as a definitive step forward for public safety.

“Bad actors are rapidly innovating and increasing their use of drones to chip away at our public safety and national security,” said Vasquez. “But we won’t let them win. I’m proud to be introducing this bill to equip our law enforcement officers with the tools and authorities they need to keep pace.”

The bill, co-led by Republican Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit a report to Congress on the use of drones and counter-drone systems by Federal, State, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies, as well as recommendations on what legal authorities or policies need to be changed to improve law enforcement’s ability to counter criminal drone threats. The report will also dictate what actions need to be taken to bolster the procurement of domestic and ally-produced drones and equipment.

""It is critical for our law enforcement agencies to have the tools, training, and technology they need to keep our communities safe. Drones are becoming an increasingly common part of criminal activity, and we must ensure our officers can counter these threats effectively and responsibly,"" said Kiggans. ""This bipartisan bill will give Congress the clear, comprehensive information we need to strengthen our laws, improve coordination, and support the use of secure, American-made and allied-made drone systems.""

Other required elements of the report include:

The number of drones purchased by non-federal agencies from entities within adversarial countries, such as China;

The number of drones that are domestically produced;

Any cost restrictions preventing law enforcement from procuring U.S. or non-adversarial drones;

How frequently law enforcement is using drones and for what purposes;

Whether drone operators are trained or certified;

What authorities, policies, and protocols govern their drone usage;

What privacy protections exist regarding law enforcement drone usage; and

What counter-drone strategies and training exist for law enforcement.

“Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are quickly becoming a vital law enforcement tool,” said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police. “They have a variety of uses, including searching for missing persons, especially in hard-to-reach areas or if the search area is very large. They are absolutely critical at the border, where they can help law enforcement identify, track, and arrest cross-border traffickers and disrupt ongoing criminal activity.”

Rep. Vasquez’s introduction of the Secure Our Skies Drones Safety Act builds on his other recent efforts to modernize the United States’ approach to countering criminal drone activity.

Earlier this month, he sent a letter to the Departments of Defense, Justice, Homeland Security, and the Federal Aviation Administration, Vasquez urging leaders to establish clear federal guidance and strengthen authorities for law enforcement at all levels to counter illegal drone activity on U.S. turf.

Rep. Vasquez also co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to strengthen the Department of Defense’s counter-drone authorities by expanding the definition of “covered facilities” to include all military bases with a secured perimeter. This bill is expected to pass the House today as part of the final Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-delivers-major-bipartisan-victory-rural-new-mexico,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Delivers Major Bipartisan Victory for Rural New Mexico with Reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools Program,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 9, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) delivered a major bipartisan victory for rural New Mexico with the passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025. Now enacted, the law restores $9 million in annual federal support for rural New Mexico counties to fund essential infrastructure like roads and schools, and it requires missed payments from 2024 and 2025 to be issued to counties within 45 days.

“This past August, I met with a bipartisan group of county officials, educators, and tribal leaders back home to discuss SRS and the need for reauthorization. Their message never wavered: rural communities needed Congress to act. They needed certainty. They needed this lifeline restored,” said Vasquez while leading the House Agriculture Committee’s floor debate on the reauthorization of the funds.

“Today, after months of fighting for reauthorization, we are delivering. We are sending a clear message to rural towns across New Mexico and across the country that they are not invisible, not expendable, and not expected to bear the weight of this lapse alone.” You can view Rep. Vasquez’s full remarks from today here.

The Congressman has championed Secure Rural Schools (SRS) funding reauthorization for months, working to raise D.C. politicians’ awareness of the urgent need for Congress to reauthorize these funds and the dire impact the funding lapse has had on rural communities in New Mexico and nationwide. In 2024, the federal funds — paid to rural counties whose tax bases are limited by extensive federal land — expired, forcing rural communities in New Mexico to make drastic cuts to their school and road maintenance budgets.

Back in August, Rep. Vasquez met with school and county officials from Catron, Sierra, Cibola, and Grant counties, as well as officials from the U.S. Forest Service, who raised grave concerns about the lapse in SRS funding and what it meant for their rural communities. The officials noted that the drop in funding was forcing them to make impossible budgetary decisions, like laying off reading specialists, cutting back to a four-day school week, or reducing critical road maintenance (leaving residents stranded in times of medical emergencies or natural disasters). He also met with the Fence Lake Volunteer Fire Department in Cibola County, where first responders underscored that the lapse in SRS funds was degrading road conditions, making it hard for EMS to reach folks in need.

Fortunately, Rep. Vasquez’s successful advocacy for the reauthorization of SRS funding means these cuts will no longer be necessary, and officials in Catron, Sierra, Cibola, and Grant will no longer be forced to decimate their budgets for schools, road maintenance, and other municipal services — protecting investment in rural New Mexico and its future.

“The reauthorization of SRS funding provides stability for rural counties like Sierra County,” said Amber Vaughn, Sierra County Manager. “We rely on these dollars to maintain our road network and support day-to-day road operations, which are essential for public safety and access across our large, mostly federal-land county. Renewing this funding gives us the certainty we need to keep our infrastructure reliable for the people who live, work, and travel here.”

“The reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools is more than a budget decision; it is an acknowledgment of rural communities like ours,” said Kayli Ortiz, Principal of Reserve Schools. “It brings stability to the services our schools rely on and affirms that our students and families matter. This support strengthens the opportunities we can offer, and for each individual student who benefits, it means they are seen and can continue to receive the support they need, too. We are grateful for this renewed investment in our children and the communities they, and we, call home.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-urgent-relief-all-new-mexico-farmers,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Urgent Relief for All New Mexico Farmers,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 8, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter urging Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to deliver timely, equitable relief to farmers across New Mexico who continue to face rising costs and uncertainty due to the administration’s tariff war. Nine of Rep. Vasquez’s colleagues joined him in sending this letter.

In the letter, the Members underscored that any relief funding tied to the administration’s farmer aid plan — meant to reverse the harm caused by the tariffs they themselves imposed — must deliver real support to New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers. They urged the USDA to ensure the assistance reaches the chile growers, pecan producers, dairies, and cattle operations that anchor southern New Mexico’s economy, rather than allowing the bulk of funding to flow to large corporations that don’t need extra funding.

“For months, the administration's disastrous tariff war has crushed farmers and producers with soaring prices and growing uncertainty,” said Vasquez. “Our real farmers — New Mexican growers and producers who bring millions into the state’s economy and keep our communities fed — deserve real, timely relief. Farm country is in crisis and needs our support, and that relief shouldn’t end up in the hands of the Wall Street billionaires buying up New Mexico’s farmland.”

The letter calls out that across New Mexico, families are paying more for everyday essentials, from groceries to household goods to utility bills. Producers across southern New Mexico are facing higher input costs for fertilizer, fuel, and feed, while the administration’s tariff war drives up expenses and uncertainty across the agriculture sector. As a result, farmers are paying more for what they need and getting less for what they grow. That’s not a fair deal for New Mexico.

The full text of the letter is below and here.

Dear Madam Secretary:

Right now, the cost of everyday goods from ground beef and coffee to clothes and car parts are crushing Americans in every corner of our country and making it hard for them to make ends meet. The economic pain and hardship have hit family farmers — no matter their size, production type or location — particularly hard. The president's trade war has increased the cost of production, depressed the price of goods and commodities and eliminated the valuable market access our farmers depend on. Based upon public reporting, it is clear that USDA is planning to provide some direct relief to farmers, growers, producers and ranchers, and that the announcement of such a program could come this week.

Given the fact that Congress has been given no additional information on your plans, we, the undersigned Members of Congress who represent a wide variety of agriculture stakeholders and producers, encourage you to ensure that any farm relief package is fair and equitable. It should provide appropriate relief to all types of producers, of all sizes and in all locations.

The effects of the administration’s trade war know no bounds. It hurts specialty crop producers from coastal Maine to the Central Valley of California, large row crop farmers from Northern Minnesota to Southern Arkansas, dairies in New York, cattle ranches in New Mexico, and everywhere in between. In 2025, fertilizer increased by 25 percent and 37 percent, respectively, for specialty crop growers compared to just a few short years ago. In just the last 12 months, we have seen production costs for farmers increase by $12 billion. Soybeans may only achieve barely half of all the total purchases it normally receives from China, and we are already seeing signs that future orders may fall short of those promised in the latest trade deal struck between the administration and the Chinese Communist Party. Despite strong exports, dairy producers are having to discount their products. The entire farm economy is hurting, and it is critical that any relief you provide does not pick winners and losers.

As you finalize this program and speak to your cabinet colleagues, we impress upon you the importance of finding opportunities to provide relief and support for more than just our nation’s farmers. Main street businesses and manufacturers are struggling, and all hardworking Americans are confronting higher costs for everyday goods. Our most vulnerable neighbors are struggling to make ends meet and put food on their table due to the high cost of groceries. It is time we found a way to support them as well.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-secures-nearly-500000-las-cruces-fire-department-train-additional,"Rep. Vasquez Secures Nearly $500,000 for Las Cruces Fire Department to Train Additional Paramedics",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 9, 2025 U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced that he had secured $456,181 for the City of Las Cruces to expand paramedic training for local first responders. This funding was secured through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

This award, one of the most competitive federal firefighter grants, will strengthen emergency medical response capacity across southern New Mexico. The funding will allow the Las Cruces Fire Department to train 15 new paramedics by covering tuition and overtime costs for firefighters enrolled in the Doña Ana Community College paramedic program. Three firefighters currently in paramedic school will be supported through the grant, with an additional cohort of 12 beginning training early next year.

“This funding will save lives and support the brave first responders who show up for our families every day,” said Rep. Gabe Vasquez. “I worked to bring this money home because southern New Mexicans deserve nothing but the best, including well-trained emergency medical teams that can respond quickly when every second counts.”

Rep. Vasquez remains committed to delivering for New Mexico’s firefighters and improving EMS services:

After meeting with the Las Cruces Fire Department earlier this year, Vasquez led a letter urging the Administration to protect and expand first responders' affordable access to overdose reversal medications, like Narcan, which are critical tools in combating the fentanyl and opioid crisis.

Vasquez is a consistent supporter of increased funding for both AFG and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grants (SAFER), the two main sources of federal funding for local fire departments.

Vasquez is a cosponsor of H.R. 2538, Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies (CARE) Act, a bipartisan bill to allow seniors on Medicare to receive at-home emergency medical services to treat minor medical incidents by creating a model that reimburses EMS providers delivering treatment in place and not just reimburses when Medicare patients are transported to the hospital. This legislation is supported by the International Association of Firefighters.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-visits-bosque-del-apache-discuss-funding-staffing-and-his-push,"Rep. Vasquez Visits Bosque del Apache to Discuss Funding, Staffing, and His Push to Protect Public Lands",2025-12-06,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"San Antonio, N.M. – On December 6, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) visited the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge to meet with refuge staff, local partners, and members of the Friends of the Bosque to assess the impacts of chronic understaffing, federal budget cuts, and the recent government shutdown on one of New Mexico’s most important pieces of public land.

During the visit, Rep. Vasquez toured the refuge’s North Loop, received a briefing from Deputy Refuge Manager Bernard Lujan and refuge staff, and met with leadership from the Friends of the Bosque. The group discussed the refuge’s growing operational challenges — including a decade-long staffing decline that has left just 10 employees to manage more than 57,000 acres — as well as drought pressures, reduced food production for migratory birds, and continued budget shortfalls following cuts that reduced the refuge’s funding from $2 million to $1.4 million.

“Bosque del Apache is a place unlike any other in southern New Mexico — it’s a haven for migrating waterfowl and a huge economic engine for Socorro and its neighboring communities. That’s why I’m deeply concerned by recent cuts to the Wildlife Refuge system which have put an enormous strain on the staff who manage these places for the public,” said Vasquez. “Our public land agencies must be well-staffed and well-managed for the benefit of rural economies and all Americans. Once we lose these places, and the integrity of their management, we can’t get them back. We must protect our public lands at all costs.”

Rep. Vasquez also highlighted the consequences of the cancellation of the annual Festival of the Cranes, a major cultural and economic event that typically brings $2 to $3 million in revenue to Socorro County and contributes to the refuge’s broader $15.8 to $17 million annual economic impact.

Rep. Vasquez underscored recent efforts he has led in Congress, including founding the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus earlier this year and preventing a predatory attempt to sell off millions of acres of public lands as part of the Republican reconciliation bill. The Congressman also serves as Co-Chair of the Wildlife Refuge Caucus and is working to bolster staffing and funding across the National Wildlife Refuge System. Earlier this year, he also introduced legislation designating National Wildlife Refuge Week and the Arctic Refuge Protection Act to safeguard critical habitat nationwide.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-bipartisan-push-bolster-dod-counter-drone-authorities,"Rep. Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Push to Bolster DOD Counter-Drone Authorities, Protect WSMR, and Boost National Security",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 5, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a bipartisan push to boost national security, co-sponsoring a bipartisan bill to combat the risks posed by unidentified drones. The bill, the Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act introduced with Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), strengthens the Department of Defense’s counter-drone authorities by expanding the definition of “covered facilities” to include all military bases with a secured perimeter.

This marks a major step toward combating national security risks posed by unidentified drones, which have entered restricted airspace at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and other military installations, jeopardizing sensitive testing operations and endangering service members. These concerns were reiterated by military officials during Rep. Vasquez’s most recent visit to WSMR.

In practice, this bill will bolster base commanders’ 130i authorities, giving them the power to protect against unidentified drones attempting to enter restricted military airspaces in the same way they would treat vehicular threats attempting to enter military installations by ground. These authorities grant DOD the ability to protect certain facilities from drone threats through detection, tracking, and disabling.

“Cartels, criminal organizations, and foreign adversaries are using drones to gather intelligence at federal properties in New Mexico and nationwide, and it’s jeopardizing sensitive information, putting our troops and law enforcement at risk, and undermining U.S. national security,” said Vasquez. “The time to bolster our military’s ability to counter these unidentified drones is now, and I’m proud to be leading this push.”

In New Mexico’s second district, this bill will materially improve security at WSMR, providing heightened airspace protections to administrative buildings, housing, and testing ranges located inside the installation’s secure perimeters.

This effort builds on Rep. Vasquez’s ongoing commitment to supporting national security and public safety. He also recently sent a letter to the administration urging federal agencies to develop a cohesive counter-drone strategy to protect American communities.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-secures-critical-funding-lower-utility-heating-bills-new-mexicans,Rep. Vasquez Secures Critical Funding to Lower Utility & Heating Bills for New Mexicans This Winter,2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced that the administration had officially released overdue funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), following the delegation's successful push demanding the immediate release of the funds. This relief comes as New Mexico families prepare for colder temperatures this winter amidst sharply rising energy costs.

Rep. Vasquez led the New Mexico delegation in calling for this funding to be released last week, underscoring that families across the state have been hit with an average 8.1 percent increase in utility costs this year alone.

On December 2, the New Mexico Human Services Department received its award letter and notified the New Mexico delegation that the LIHEAP funding is now on the way to help thousands of New Mexico households keep the heat on this winter. This award letter came after a month-long delay, which is what prompted the New Mexico delegation’s demand for the funding’s immediate release.

“Too many New Mexicans are already feeling the squeeze of rising utility costs, and they should never have to choose between staying warm and putting food on the table,” said Vasquez. “We demanded action, and I’m proud that this critical funding is now on the way to cover rising costs so that seniors, veterans, working parents, and families in rural and Tribal communities stay safe and warm this winter.”

“New Mexico families deserve the support to weather the winter with dignity,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “It shouldn’t have been this hard to unlock the funding that Congress had already appropriated to keep our kids, our elders, and families warm in our snowy winter months. While the Trump administration keeps pushing prices up, we will continue fighting to lower energy costs for everyone.”

“As winter approaches and the temperature drops, so many struggling in our community face the impossible reality of having to choose between heating their homes versus putting food on the table and countless other needs,” said Rep. Stansbury. “This should never be a reality in one of the wealthiest countries on the planet, but unfortunately is all too common for so many families. I am grateful the Administration has finally released critical LIHEAP funds after the NM delegation demanded they do so. But, it never should have come to this—which is why we will continue fighting for our communities.”

“As temperatures drop and energy costs continue to rise, New Mexicans need reliable support to keep their homes warm and their families safe. With prices up across the board, no one should have to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table,” said Senator Luján. “I’m glad that after we demanded the Trump administration immediately release funding for this critical program that keeps New Mexican families safe, the funds are now on their way.”

“New Mexico families are being subjected to increasing utility costs due to Trump’s energy affordability crisis. Working families deserve affordable heat and reliable power – especially as temperatures drop far below freezing at night,” said Senator Heinrich. “That’s why I fought alongside the New Mexico Delegation to release the funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program that help New Mexico families access affordable heat and power.”

The released LIHEAP funding will be administered through the New Mexico Human Services Department and will help eligible households cover heating costs, prevent utility shutoffs, and avoid dangerous winter conditions.

Rep. Vasquez’s work to lower utility costs for New Mexicans is a core component of his Affordability Agenda — a concrete plan to make life more affordable for working class New Mexicans. He has also stood up against the administration’s reckless policies that are raising utility bills, including the Department of Energy’s decision to cut $135 million for next-generation energy projects in New Mexico and the Republican tax law that cut incentives for energy projects in order to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-secures-4-million-federal-grant-launch-las-cruces-el-paso-express,Rep. Vasquez Secures $4 Million Federal Grant to Launch Las Cruces–El Paso Express Bus Service,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) secured a $4 million Federal Transit Administration grant for the South Central Regional Transit District (SCRTD) to launch a new Las Cruces–El Paso Hybrid Express Bus Service. This award, one of SCRTD’s largest and most competitive federal grants to date, will connect southern New Mexico communities with fast, reliable, and environmentally sustainable transit.

The new limited-stop express service will link Las Cruces, Anthony, Sunland Park, and the El Paso Downtown Transit Center, with future plans to extend to the El Paso International Airport. SCRTD is already moving forward with service planning, bus procurement, and driver training, keeping the Las Cruces–El Paso Express on track for an imminent launch.

“This new bus service isn’t just about transportation, it’s about connecting communities, creating local jobs, and providing smart, reliable transit for our families,” said Rep. Gabe Vasquez. “I worked to make sure southern New Mexico received this investment because our communities deserve tangible investments that improve daily life and strengthen our regional economy.”

“This grant provides the resources to operate a new bus service that will connect Las Cruces with Sunland Park and the El Paso International Airport,” said David Armijo, Executive Director of SCRTD. “This is a vital link between these communities, providing transportation to the people who rely on it most.”

Rep. Vasquez remains committed to delivering practical solutions to make life easier for New Mexicans. Projects like this build a stronger, more connected future for the region.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/nm-delegation-presses-usda-refund-new-mexico-30-million-shutdown-food-stamps,N.M. Delegation Presses USDA to Refund New Mexico $30 Million for Shutdown Food Stamps Lapse,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On December 2, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) was joined by Reps. Teresa Leger Fernandez (NM-03) and Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) as well as U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) in demanding that the federal government reimburse New Mexico $30 million for the emergency state funds used to protect hardworking New Mexicans’ from a lapse in their November food assistance during the most recent government shutdown.

The New Mexico delegation sent a letter pressing the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for accountability to New Mexico taxpayers after the USDA purposefully withheld November SNAP benefits it had the legal obligation to fund.

“Funding SNAP is a federal responsibility, and New Mexican taxpayers should not be penalized for your failure to fulfill your duty,” the members wrote. “No state should have to raid their own budgets to fix a problem the administration created. In New Mexico, this failure placed more than 450,000 SNAP recipients at immediate risk of going without the food assistance they rely on each month.”

The text of the letter is below and available here.

+++

Dear Director Vought and Secretary Rollins:

We write to demand full and immediate reimbursement to the State of New Mexico for the $30 million it was forced to reallocate to provide food assistance to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients for the month of November during the federal government shutdown. Funding SNAP is a federal responsibility, and New Mexican taxpayers should not be penalized for your failure to fulfill your duty.

During the shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) refused to issue SNAP benefits despite having sufficient funding and transfer authority available to issue full benefits. After multiple court orders, USDA eventually allowed states to issue benefits, but their repeated appeals and conflicting guidance caused further delays and confusion — leaving more working-class Americans needlessly hungry every step of the way. New Mexico’s governor did what the administration would not: she kept children, seniors, and people with disabilities fed. No state should have to raid their own budgets to fix a problem the administration created. In New Mexico, this failure placed more than 450,000 SNAP recipients at immediate risk of going without the food assistance they rely on each month. Fortunately, the State of New Mexico stepped in and provided $30 million in food assistance to prevent a hunger crisis, protect vulnerable households, ensure continuity across local food systems, and sustain local economies.

This was not the only federal responsibility New Mexico has been forced to shoulder. In addition to the $30 million stopgap for SNAP, the state had already reallocated $162 million to protect residents who would have lost Medicaid coverage and Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits because of the Republican tax law. These programs — SNAP, Medicaid, and ACA subsidies — are core federal obligations, and no state should be forced to backfill federal programs. New Mexico acted responsibly under extraordinary circumstances, and it must not bear the long-term financial burden for failures at the federal level.

Congress has already made its intent clear. The Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act includes explicit language under Section 118 authorizing reimbursement to states that used their own funds to cover programs “that would have been paid” by the federal government during the shutdown. The directive is unambiguous: USDA and OMB are required to repay states in full.

We therefore expect USDA and OMB to move quickly to restore New Mexico’s funds and execute the reimbursement without delay. The federal government has a duty to make New Mexico whole, and we insist that responsibility be met immediately.

We stand ready to assist in ensuring this directive is carried out and expect timely confirmation that New Mexico’s reimbursement is being processed.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-new-mexico-delegation-call-lower-utility-bills,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads New Mexico Delegation in Call to Lower Utility Bills as Hardworking NM Families Brace Themselves for the Cold,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 24, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led the New Mexican delegation in urging the administration to immediately fund the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as New Mexico families prepare for colder temperatures this winter amidst sharply rising energy costs.

In a letter addressed to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., Rep. Vasquez emphasized that LIHEAP plays a critical role in ensuring hardworking families can make ends meet and protect their families from the elements, especially as New Mexico families grapple with an average 8.1% jump in utility costs this year.

“In communities across our state, families are struggling to afford rising energy costs. As winter approaches, many households face difficult choices between paying their heating bills and covering other basic needs like groceries, rent, or prescription drugs,” the NM delegation wrote to Secretary Kennedy. “For New Mexicans living on fixed incomes, especially seniors, families with young children, and those in rural and Tribal areas, LIHEAP can mean the difference between safety and crisis.”

Rep. Vasquez’s work to lower utility costs for New Mexicans is a core component of his Affordability Agenda — a concrete plan to make life more affordable for working class New Mexicans. He has also stood up against the Administration's reckless policies that are raising utility bills, including the Department of Energy’s decision to cut $135 million for next-generation energy projects in New Mexico and the Republican tax law that cut incentives for energy projects in order to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-calls-us-dot-restore-consumer-protections-air-travelers-ahead-peak,Rep. Vasquez Calls on U.S. DOT to Restore Consumer Protections for Air Travelers Ahead of Peak Holiday Travel,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of the upcoming peak in holiday travel, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM‑02) called on U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Pete Duffy to restore a rule that requires airlines to compensate travelers anywhere from $200 to $775 for flight delays and cancellations.

The letter from Rep. Vasquez, Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04), and dozens of other Democratic lawmakers to the Secretary of Transportation noted that the rule they are seeking to restore would require “airlines to provide free meals, lodging and rebooking in cases where domestic flight changes were under the carrier’s control, such as a mechanical issue.”

“This isn’t rocket science. Flights are expensive, and flight delays and cancellations are frustrating,” said Vasquez. “Many New Mexicans are out of luck and out of money when these preventable delays and cancellations happen, and they must be compensated, just as they would in any other industry. Let’s restore the rule and restore faith in air travel.”

This effort builds on Vasquez’s record of working to hold corporations accountable for rising costs and protecting hardworking New Mexicans from footing the bill.

The Congressman’s demand that the DOT restore these consumer protections comes as air travelers face all-time record delays and air traffic controllers recover from shutdown staffing shortages nationwide. This week, an estimated 6 million Americans are projected to take domestic flights during the Thanksgiving travel period.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-urges-federal-agencies-develop-cohesive-counter-drone-strategy,"Rep. Vasquez Urges Federal Agencies to Develop Cohesive Counter-Drone Strategy to Protect American Communities, Combat Cartels and Secure the Border",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 24, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called on top national security, defense, and law enforcement agencies to take urgent action against the growing criminal use of drones across the United States. In a letter sent to the Departments of Defense, Justice, Homeland Security, and the Federal Aviation Administration, Vasquez urged leaders to establish clear federal guidance and strengthen authorities for law enforcement at all levels to counter illegal drone activity on U.S. turf.

Following meetings with law enforcement and national security officials across southern New Mexico, Rep. Vasquez’s letter highlighted escalating threats posed by cartels, drug traffickers, and other bad actors, stating, “Criminals are using drones to harm Americans, and our communities are vulnerable in the absence of a cohesive federal counter-drone strategy. Whether it’s cartels smuggling illegal contraband across the border, foreign adversaries spying on military tests, or traffickers operating in our neighborhoods, these threats demand immediate action.”

Based on his past trips to the border, Rep. Vasquez underscored that Border Patrol agents in southern New Mexico remain on the front lines of the fight against cartel drone activity, which includes surveillance flights, intelligence gathering, cross-border smuggling, and even threats involving explosives.

“As a border legislator, protecting my community and the law enforcement personnel who keep us safe is my top priority,” said Vasquez. “We must ensure that U.S. Border Patrol agents have the tools, personnel, and guidance needed to disrupt cartel drone activity and secure our border.”

The letter also warns of significant risks to national security and U.S. military operations. At White Sands Missile Range and other Department of Defense installations, unidentified drones have entered restricted airspace, jeopardizing sensitive testing operations and endangering service members. These concerns were reiterated during Rep. Vasquez’s most recent visit to WSMR.

Local law enforcement, including police departments in Albuquerque, reported facing similar challenges as drones are used for counter-surveillance and other criminal activity far from the border during a recent law enforcement roundtable with Rep. Vasquez. Many local agencies lack the resources, authorities, and federal support needed to confront these threats, making it difficult — if not impossible — to remove illegal drones from their airspace.

“Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are quickly becoming a vital law enforcement tool. They have a variety of uses, including searching for missing persons, especially in hard-to-reach areas or if the search area is very large,"" said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police. ""They are absolutely critical at the border, where they can help law enforcement identify, track, and arrest cross-border traffickers and disrupt ongoing criminal activity.”

“Southern New Mexico illustrates the urgency of this issue, but we are not alone,” Vasquez stated. “The threat from criminal drone activity is a nationwide concern. Protecting American communities and national security is not a partisan issue, and I stand ready to work with the administration and both parties in Congress to get this done.”

Rep. Vasquez continues to champion policies that strengthen border security, support law enforcement, and address emerging threats to national security and public safety. He is a national leader in the push to modernize border security in the U.S. and is a tireless advocate for heightened investments in drones, scanners, surveillance towers, and other smart, cost-effective border technology.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-makes-federal-government-work-new-mexicans-bringing-185m-home,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Makes Federal Government Work for New Mexicans, Bringing $1.85M Home for Rural Workforce Training in Silver City and Town Hall Upgrade in Mesilla",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) secured nearly $2 million in federal funding for workforce training in rural areas surrounding Silver City and town hall upgrades in Mesilla. After over a year of advocacy, Rep. Vasquez secured this Community Project Funding to grow the local economy and bolster constituent priorities in his district. Rep. Vasquez continues to fight for the 13 other projects that he submitted which still await passage into law.

Vasquez is bringing home $850,000 for Frontier Food Hub to construct a Community Garden and Workforce Training Center in Bayard, NM and $1 million to construct a public meeting space and multi-use community area for Mesilla Town Hall.

The Frontier Food Hub Workforce Training Center will serve as the only training infrastructure of its kind across the rural, geographically isolated Catron, Grant, Hidalgo, and Luna counties.

The Mesilla Town Hall addition will build a dedicated boardroom for local stakeholders and community leaders to publicly and transparently convene with local government officials, ultimately leading to more informed and representative governance. Designed to host everything from town meetings and public forums to educational workshops, this new space will anchor civic engagement and strengthen community life.

“You all sent me to Washington to make the federal government work for you, and that’s my north star every day,” said Vasquez. “I am thrilled to have secured these federal resources for our community, and I know they will have a meaningful impact on folks’ lives back home. This workforce training facility will grow our local workforce and economy in some of the most rural parts of our district, and these new community spaces in Mesilla will bolster community connection and transparent, participative governance.”

“The National Center for Frontier Communities expresses its deep gratitude for Congressman Vasquez and his team's support for the construction of an Agricultural Workforce Training Center in Bayard, New Mexico,” said Johannes Lencer, Chief Operating Officer of the National Center for Frontier Communities. “This investment will support our work to train a new generation of farmers in a remote town that lacks economic opportunities for young people, increasing prosperity, resilience and health outcomes for the whole community. Trainees will learn how to grow nutritious food using regenerative and innovative tools that will allow them to gain valuable skills while also feeding their communities. This project is the outcome of years of community engagement and stakeholder-led work that recognizes the importance of uplifting the champions in our communities who are already out there working to sustain their families and neighbors and demonstrates NCFC's commitment to investing into our rural and frontier communities and their future leaders.”

“The renovation of Mesilla Town Hall is more than just a building project — it’s an investment in our community’s future,” said Russell Hernandez, Mayor of Mesilla. “With a new versatile multi-use space for residents, we are creating a hub where ideas can be shared, decisions can be made transparently, and everyone feels welcome. This project brings us one step closer to a stronger, more connected Mesilla, where civic engagement and community connection are at the heart of everything we do.”

The Congressman submitted these community projects for FY26 funding to the House Appropriations Committee back in May 2025. More details about Rep. Vasquez’s newly funded community projects can be found below:

Frontier Food Hub Workforce Training Center

Recipient: National Center for Frontier Communities

Amount Approved: $850,000

Project Description: The National Center for Frontier Communities will construct a workforce training center in Bayard, New Mexico. The proposed center represents a critical investment in infrastructure for a 17,000-square-mile frontier region that currently lacks permanent facilities dedicated to agricultural education and food system training. Once completed, the center will be the only site in the area specifically designed to support beginning farmers, controlled-environment agriculture, and resilient, community-based food systems.

Mesilla Town Hall Renovation

Recipient: Town of Mesilla

Amount Approved: $1,000,000

Project Description: The Town of Mesilla will build a meeting room and multi-use community area in the town hall. This flexible space will be utilized for a wide range of activities, including town hall meetings, educational workshops, and social gatherings. The Mesilla Town Hall Renovation project represents a significant step forward in Mesilla’s efforts to build a stronger, more connected community where everyone feels welcome and valued.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-seeks-house-vote-shield-new-mexicans-health-care-rate-hikes,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Seeks House Vote to Shield New Mexicans from Health Care Rate Hikes,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 19, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) demanded that Speaker Mike Johnson protect working class Americans from surging health care costs by calling a vote on the extension of the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits (EPTCs). Senate Majority Leader John Thune has already guaranteed such a vote on the Senate floor by December 15, but Speaker Johnson has refused to hold a vote to lower health care costs for Americans.

The letter to the Speaker, signed by Rep. Vasquez and 58 House Democrats, stated, “a majority of members of the House – Democrats and Republicans – have made clear that these expiring EPTCs need to be addressed immediately,” adding, “In voting to reopen the federal government, Majority Leader John Thune has guaranteed a vote on extending these ACA EPTCs in the Senate. We respectfully demand you hold this same vote here in the House as soon as possible.”

“Some Republican lawmakers have made it clear they’re okay letting working class Americans lose access to their health care, but I’m not,” said Vasquez. “There’s still time to undo the damage and protect hardworking New Mexican families from rate hikes that they simply can’t afford. Speaker Johnson, get out of our way and let us vote on this bipartisan proposal that does what our constituents sent us to Congress to do — make their lives easier, not more expensive.”

Currently, the ACA enhanced premium tax credits are set to expire at the end of 2025. Should these tax credits expire, more than 51,000 New Mexicans will see their monthly health insurance premiums skyrocket by an average of $578 every month. Nationwide, some could see health care premiums jump by as much as 75 percent, and in rural communities, premiums could rise by up to 90 percent.

For a New Mexican purchasing a mid-level health coverage plan from their carrier, often referred to as a silver plan, here is what these increases could mean:

A 60-year-old couple who owns their own business in Las Cruces, earning $82,800 a year, could see their annual premiums rise by $19,494.

A family of four who farm in Grant County, earning $95,000, could pay $16,742 more per year for their current plan.

A 55-year-old single adult in Alamogordo earning $60,000 could see their monthly payment increase by $7,425.

For many families, the expiration of ACA enhanced premium tax credits will mean the loss of health care altogether, and as hospitals and providers try to offset rising uncompensated care costs for the uninsured, families on private insurance will likely face rate hikes.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-public-lands-caucus-endorses-public-lands-public-hands-act,Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus Endorses Public Lands in Public Hands Act to Safeguard Outdoor Access for Future Generations,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, co-chaired by U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke (R-MT), U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI), and U.S. Representative Mike Simpson (R-ID), announced its official endorsement of the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act to safeguard America’s public lands and ensure they remain open and accessible for all. This is the first bill endorsed by the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which was founded by Rep. Vasquez and Rep. Zinke in May 2025.

Rooted in the belief that public lands are “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,” the Caucus’s endorsement reflects its mission to protect public lands by banning the sale or transfer of most public lands managed by the Department of the Interior and U.S. Forest Service, except under specific conditions and where required by law. The bill also requires Congressional approval for the disposal of publicly accessible federal land tracts over 300 acres and for public land tracts over five acres if accessible via a public waterway — protecting hunting, fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation access across the country. The Caucus emphasized that public lands power rural outdoor economies, support cultural traditions, and strengthen communities.

“Like so many New Mexicans, I grew up hunting, fishing, and camping on public lands. Those experiences shaped who I am today,” said Vasquez. “These lands don’t belong to one party or to a handful of wealthy interests — they belong to all of us. This endorsement is a meaningful step as the Public Lands Caucus works to ensure our lands stay in public hands for generations to come.”

The endorsement of the Public Lands in Public Hands Act builds on the Caucus’s early success of stopping a major land sell-off proposal earlier this year, when the Caucus worked across party lines to remove a provision pushed by Senator Lee that would have authorized the sale of 500,000 acres of public lands.

The Public Lands in Public Hands Act now moves forward in the House with strong support from the members of the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-honors-veterans-day-new-legislation-supporting-veterans-benefits,Rep. Stansbury Honors Veterans Day with New Legislation Supporting Veterans’ Benefits,2025-11-17,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) today introduced H.R. 5982, the Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act, legislation to ensure that veterans who pursue careers in the rail industry receive the full unemployment and sickness benefits they have earned.

The bill amends the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act (RUIA) to clarify how military retirement pay is treated when calculating unemployment and sickness benefits. Currently, a technical inconsistency in the law can reduce benefit eligibility for veterans who enter railroad service after military retirement.

Read the bill here.

“The Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act aims to ensure that veterans can access the support they need without unnecessary barriers,” said Rep. Stansbury. “It is our duty to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve. By clarifying how military retirement pay is treated under the Railroad Unemployment Insurance Act, we are taking a significant stride toward supporting our veterans as they transition back into civilian life.”

The bill is endorsed by the Transport Workers Union of America, SMART Transportation Division, IBEW International, and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen New Mexico State Legislative Board.

""This bill fixes a loophole in railroad retirement pay where veterans working on railroads could see their unemployment benefits reduced,"" said TWU Rail Division Director John Feltz. ""No veteran should be forced to get less in unemployment benefits because they are receiving their justly earned military retirement pay. The TWU strongly supports this bill.""

“No one who served their country should be penalized for it,” said IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper. “We commend Representative Stansbury for introducing this common-sense bill to ensure the veterans working on our nation’s railroads receive every benefit they’ve earned.”

“Military service is not something we should ever take for granted, nor should it be held against anyone,” said SMART-TD President Jeremy Ferguson. “Our brothers and sisters who wore the uniform and now keep our economy moving deserve the full benefits they have earned both as veterans and as railroaders. The DD-214 they carry is a badge of honor, not a target for the railroads or the federal government. SMART-TD is proud to stand with Representative Stansbury in this fight to right that wrong.”

""We thank Congresswoman Stansbury for her continued leadership in improving the lives of railroad workers,” said BLET and Teamsters Rail Conference President Mark Wallace. Many of BLET's members are military veterans and we are immensely proud of their service to their Country. Unfortunately, current federal law excludes railroad workers who get military retirement pay from receiving rail unemployment or sickness benefits that they have otherwise earned that other railroaders receive. This exclusion makes no logical sense and is a disservice to those railroaders who served their Country. We are proud to support Congresswoman Stansbury's Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act which would correct this injustice and honor our members who are veterans on this Veteran's Day.""

Veterans face numerous obstacles when navigating the complex landscape of retirement benefits. The Veteran Benefits Enhancement Act responds to ongoing concerns and aims to clarify how military retirement pay is treated under current unemployment insurance regulations.

“Every day that our veterans wait for their rightful benefits is a day too long,” Rep. Stansbury said. “It is crucial that we recognize and address these systemic issues within our benefits system. Together, we can make meaningful changes that will positively impact veterans and their families.”",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-new-mexico-delegation-urging-interior-secretary-burgum,Rep. Vasquez Leads New Mexico Delegation in Urging Interior Secretary Burgum to Protect Chaco Canyon,2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Earlier this month, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led an effort to protect New Mexico’s sacred lands by calling on U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to reverse the Administration’s decision to begin the process of revoking Public Land Order (PLO) No. 7923, which safeguards the lands surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park (CCNHP) from new oil and gas leasing.

Vasquez spearheaded a letter — joined by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, and Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández and Melanie Stansbury — urging Secretary Burgum to uphold protections for the greater Chaco landscape.

“Chaco Canyon tells the story of our ancestors, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that story continues to be told by future generations,” said Vasquez. “Protecting this sacred landscape isn’t just about preserving history — it’s about honoring our commitments to Tribal nations and respecting their sovereignty. New Mexicans understand that economic progress and cultural preservation can go hand in hand, and revoking these protections would erase decades of productive cooperation and threaten sacred lands that define who we are.”

This effort builds on Vasquez’s strong record of leadership in protecting New Mexico’s sacred lands and cultural heritage. As Founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, Vasquez has united lawmakers from across the political spectrum to protect America’s public lands. He has also led the charge to reintroduce the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act, landmark legislation that will permanently safeguard Chaco Canyon and the greater sacred landscape surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park. The bill would prohibit new oil, gas, and mineral leasing on non-Indian federal lands within a 10-mile buffer zone around the park — ensuring that these irreplaceable cultural treasures are preserved and that Tribal sovereignty and heritage are honored for generations to come.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-melanie-stansbury-statement-republican-funding-deal-reopen,Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury Statement on Republican Funding Deal to Reopen Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after voting “no” on the Republican funding deal:

“Simply put, this is a raw deal for Americans that does not address the Republican healthcare crisis. Not only does it let premiums skyrocket—putting healthcare out of reach for millions of Americans—but it also rewards eight Republican senators implicated in the January 6 insurrection with millions of dollars in self-dealing payouts.

While Donald Trump let millions of families across America go hungry during this shutdown, he spent his time expediting kickbacks for billionaires, a $40 billion bailout for Argentina, demolition of the White House’s East Wing, lavish parties and golfing at Mar-A-Lago, and trying to cover up the Epstein Files. And instead of working to find a bipartisan path forward—he’s pushed a domestic policy agenda that decimates healthcare and food assistance for millions of Americans and an illegal tariff scheme is that driving inflation, job loss, and increased costs of basic necessities.

Our democracy demands that we cannot allow these abuses of power to go unchecked. So, while I am grateful to see our government reopen and our federal workers being paid, we must continue to fight for the American people. Our battle is just beginning, and we will not stop until every American has access to healthcare, food, and basic human dignity.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-vote-protect-health-care-working-class-new-mexicans,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Vote to Protect Health Care for Working Class New Mexicans,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 12, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on his vote on the Senate funding package, a funding bill that reopened the federal government at the expense of New Mexicans’ access to health care.

“New Mexicans can’t afford to pay thousands more for healthcare, and that’s the bottom line. I hear it loud and clear from my constituents every day — they’re frustrated that despite working full-time jobs, they can’t make ends meet. Washington doesn’t understand the plight of working families. My vote today was to lower costs for New Mexicans and preserve their access to health care.”

“The funding bill that passed today reopened the government, which is a very good thing, but it did nothing to address the rising cost of health care. As a result, hundreds of thousands of New Mexican families will have to make the tough decision to keep their healthcare or go without it altogether, putting their health and their livelihoods at risk. My job in Congress is to vote for bills that make life better, not worse, for as many New Mexicans as possible — unfortunately, the bill that passed will make things worse for New Mexicans, and there’s no question about it.”

“From the very beginning, I have fought for a bipartisan government funding bill that both reopened the government and protected working class New Mexicans’ access to health care. It’s clear we could have afforded to do both — as the administration shells out $170 million for private jets for DHS Secretary Noem and $40 billion for a bailout for Argentina — but Republican lawmakers chose not to. It didn’t have to be this way. This isn’t putting America first.”

In an effort to make the funding bill work better for the American people, Rep. Vasquez supported five amendments to the bill, all of which failed due to opposition from Republican lawmakers. These included:

Amendment to redirect $40 billion for Argentina bailout to pay for two-year extension of the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits

Amendment to clarify that SNAP contingency fund must be used for benefits during future shutdowns

Amendment to repay New Mexico and other state governments for money used to cover SNAP benefits and reimbursements to food banks during shutdown

Amendment striking a clause that allows Senators to sue the U.S. government for personal financial gain if their phone records were involved in January 6th investigations

Amendment to provide a clean 3-year extension of the ACA enhanced premium tax credits

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-honors-new-mexico-veterans-mesilla-veterans-day-ceremony,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Honors New Mexico Veterans at Mesilla Veterans Day Ceremony,2025-11-11,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 11, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) commemorated Veterans Day by meeting with local veterans at a ceremony in Mesilla. The Veterans Day ceremony, hosted by the Town of Mesilla at Parque de los Veteranos, included remarks from the Congressman, the raising of colors, a singing of the national anthem, remarks from veterans, and more. During the event, Rep. Vasquez spoke with veterans in attendance about the top issues they face today, including health care access and the need for more network providers within community care.

“As Americans, we owe a deep debt of gratitude to the service members who have worn our nation’s uniform throughout history,” said Rep. Vasquez. “It is because of their sacrifices that we are able to live with freedom, opportunity, and the promise of a better tomorrow in the greatest country on Earth. On Veterans Day, it’s imperative we pause to reflect on our veterans’ service in times of both war and peace and the values they have fought so dearly to defend.”

Rep. Vasquez remains steadfast in his support of our nation’s veterans and their families. His ongoing work to champion the issues veterans care about most includes:

His leadership of the bipartisan Veteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act to increase the annual GI Bill book stipend from $1,000 to $1,400 (with annual adjustments for inflation)

His efforts to improve veteran health care with the introduction of his bipartisan New Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act to allow veterans in Otero and Eddy Counties to receive services at the El Paso VA facility (rather than having to travel hundreds of miles to the Albuquerque location)

His support of the bipartisan Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act, which expands the VA’s Highly Rural Transportation Grant Program to give more veterans living in rural New Mexico free transportation to doctors appointments

His leadership of the charge to memorialize New Mexicans killed during World War II with his Las Cruces Bataan Memorial Clinic Act, which would rename the Las Cruces Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) after the Bataan Death March.

His ongoing fight to improve employment opportunities for veterans, including through his Honor and Hire Veterans Act to expand Work Opportunity Tax Credits (WOTC) for businesses who hire veterans and his support of the bipartisan VET Act which creates a Department of Labor grant program to hire more veterans and military spouses in the energy and manufacturing sector.

His push to expand retirement and disability benefits for veterans through cosponsorship of the bipartisan Major Richard Star Act, which allows combat-injured veterans to concurrently receive both their VA disability and military retirement pay. Current law only allows veterans to receive one or the other.

The Congressman also remains a strong supporter of our nation’s active military servicemembers and their families. Throughout the ongoing government shutdown, the Congressman has been a leader in the push to guarantee pay for active duty service members, with nearly 80 House Democrats joining his letter demanding that Speaker Johnson pass a permanent legislative solution to guarantee troop pay for the duration of the shutdown.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/polluters-will-pay-under-new-legislation,Polluters Will Pay Under New Legislation,2025-11-07,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and U.S. Representative Becca Balint (VT-AL) today introduced H.R. 5983, the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act, also known as the Polluters Pay Act. The bill would create a new trust fund in the U.S. tax code – the “National Resilience and Recovery Fund” – financed through taxes on major corporate polluters who have long avoided accountability through legal loopholes.

The fund would be used to support federal resilience and recovery programs that help communities prepare for and respond to climate-related disasters. Endorsing organizations include the League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Fossil Free Media.

“The climate crisis is real and worsening. Every community is now at risk because of the greed of corporate polluters,” said Rep. Stansbury. “Corporate polluters—not individual taxpayers—should be responsible for the costs. Let’s close these egregious loopholes and end the rampant price gouging of American consumers so communities can build resilience in the face of this crisis.”

""The climate crisis isn’t just an abstract concept. Americans feel the brunt of its effects every year, whether that’s wildfires, hurricanes and devastating floods or extreme heat. And it’s costing us billions of dollars each year,” said Rep. Balint. “It’s time corporations take on responsibility for their damage. I’m proud to co-lead the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act because the effects of climate change don’t stop because of a government shutdown. It’s time we take real action to protect our planet for future generations.""

Climate disasters are projected to cost nearly $145 billion in damage globally in 2025. Currently, taxpayers—not the corporations driving climate change—bear those costs. The Polluters Pay Act would ensure that companies profiting from pollution and harmful environmental practices pay into the fund, reducing the burden on working families and local governments.

This legislation ensures that those most responsible for the climate crisis are the ones who pay for the recovery and resilience efforts our communities urgently need—not American taxpayers.

Read the bill here.

Statements of support are below:

“It’s past time for Big Polluters to take responsibility and pay for the harm they’ve caused to the health of our communities and our environment,” said Leah Donahey, League of Conservation Voters Senior Federal Advocacy Campaigns Director. “Representative Stansbury and other climate champions in the House are fighting to protect people, champion affordability, and ensure Big Polluters are the ones paying for the critical investments we need to build resiliency against extreme weather and the climate crisis. Polluters have profited at the expense of our communities for decades, and the National Resilience and Recovery Fund Act will help hold Big Polluters accountable and protect our budgets, communities, and future generations.”

“Corporate 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’s about time Big Oil and Gas companies are expected to help rebuild and repair the damage caused by their business activities,” said Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club’s Director of Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy. “We 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.”

""Headlines regularly report communities across the nation are facing wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, and heat waves, extreme weather events that used to be considered ‘once in a generation’ storms. Now our future is shaped by a series of disasters that upend lives, damage homes, businesses, and hospitals, and destroy critical infrastructure. The crippling costs of restoring and repairing our communities cannot be borne by individuals or state governments alone. It is time for the oil and gas industry to pay their fair share of the damages they have caused,” said Kimberly Ong, Senior Director & Senior Attorney with NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council).",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-push-against-new-nuclear-testing-citing-new-mexicos,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Push Against New Nuclear Testing, Citing New Mexico’s Painful Legacy",2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On November 5, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led the New Mexico Congressional Delegation against the administration’s reported plans to resume nuclear weapons testing — calling it a direct threat to the health, safety, and dignity of New Mexicans who continue to live with the consequences of the Trinity test, without benefitting national security.

In a letter to President Trump and top officials in the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and National Nuclear Security Administration, Vasquez highlighted that existing testing ensures that the U.S. nuclear stockpile is operational and our nation is secure, and urged officials not to repeat the above-ground nuclear testing that devastated southern New Mexico 80 years ago.

“Southern New Mexico is home to the Trinity Site and the birthplace of America’s nuclear program. In the early hours of July 16th, 1945, nearly half a million New Mexicans within a 150-mile radius of the Trinity Site were awakened by a blinding explosion... Without warning, people in communities throughout southern New Mexico were unknowingly exposed to deadly radiation as a result of the world’s first nuclear explosion. The fallout from the test rained radioactive ash throughout New Mexico, poisoning crops, livestock, and our people... We must stand firmly against any return to above-ground nuclear testing and against repeating the same mistakes that have already caused so much harm to our people and our home,” said the lawmakers.

“Communities near the Trinity Site have carried the weight of loss and illness for 80 years,” said Vasquez. “Families have buried loved ones, watched neighbors get sick, and waited generations for justice. Resuming nuclear testing would not only betray those victims, but it would put countless New Mexicans and Americans in danger. I’m leading the charge in Congress to ensure our future is one of healing, accountability, and respect for those who suffered, not a repeat of the tragedies we’ve already endured.”

Vasquez added that New Mexico’s scientists and national laboratories, such as Sandia Laboratories, already play a key role in maintaining the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile — without explosive testing — through cutting-edge research and supercomputer simulations.

Vasquez, whose district includes the Trinity Test Site, has made justice for victims of nuclear testing a cornerstone of his work in Congress. This year, he helped lead efforts to expand the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) to ensure New Mexico’s downwinders, individuals exposed to nuclear fallout, are compensated. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, he also secured the Downwinder Commemoration Act in the House-passed FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating New Mexico’s Downwinders in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base.

The full text of the letter can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-stansbury-vasquez-and-leger-fernandez-introduce-snap-back-act,"Representatives Stansbury, Vasquez, and Leger Fernández Introduce SNAP BACK Act to Protect Families from Republican Shutdown and Prevent Cuts to Food Assistance",2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – As the Trump administration plans to cut off food assistance for 42 million Americans on November 1, U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), and Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) introduced the SNAP BACK Act to ensure that no child, parent, elder, or veteran goes hungry because of the Administration’s refusal to release SNAP benefits.

The SNAP BACK Act guarantees funding for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) during the current government shutdown and any future lapse in funding. The bill requires the immediate release of food assistance funds, prohibits OMB or USDA from blocking their distribution, and ensures continuity of enrollment and access for eligible families. It also directs the federal government to reimburse states and Tribes that use emergency funds to cover food assistance during a shutdown.

“Withholding food from children, elders, and veterans is wrong. Period. The Trump Administration is playing politics with hungry kids and we won’t let them.” said Rep. Stansbury. “Nearly one in four families in New Mexico depend on SNAP to help put food on the table—that’s 457,000 New Mexicans. No government should ever use food assistance as a political bargaining chip. This bill uses every tool we have to demand the release of these funds, working alongside state leaders, attorneys general, and food banks.”

“The USDA has contingency funds that are explicitly authorized to replenish food assistance for New Mexicans. Rather than show up to work and discuss the health care crisis, Republicans have instead ignored the crisis and have opted to send kids to bed hungry,” said Rep. Vasquez. “As I said to USDA Secretary Rollins last week, it is cruel and unnecessary to let working class New Mexicans go hungry when we have the money to feed them. Enough is enough, Republicans must get back to Washington and treat this health care crisis with the attention it deserves.”

“I’m a cosponsor of the SNAP Back Act and the Feed Our Families Act because families should never go hungry in a shutdown,"" said Rep. Leger Fernández. ""Congress needs to create a permanent solution to this crisis; hunger can’t wait for the legislative calendar. The President has the money in the bank right now to prevent 42 million Americans—including nearly half a million New Mexicans—from going hungry on November 1. There’s $5 billion sitting in the contingency fund and USDA has the authority to send it to the States today. If Trump can find $40 billion for Argentina, he should release the $5 billion that Congress already approved to feed the hungry. Hunger should not be a political weapon.”

The Trump Administration’s plan will cut off food assistance beginning November 1—leaving 457,000 New Mexicans, 42 million Americans, and 6 million parents, infants, and young children hungry. The SNAP BACK Act ensures benefits continue flowing by:

Requiring immediate release of SNAP and WIC funds appropriated by Congress.

Prohibiting the White House, OMB, or USDA from withholding or delaying funds for political or administrative reasons.

Guaranteeing continued enrollment and access to benefits during a shutdown.

Maintaining uninterrupted operation of EBT systems that distribute benefits to families.

Reimbursing States and Tribes that provide emergency funds to cover a lapse.

“In New Mexico, we know what it means to take care of one another,” said Rep. Stansbury. “When families can’t afford groceries, it’s our kids who suffer. This bill ensures families can continue to put food on the table—no matter what is happening in Washington.”

The SNAP BACK Act builds on Rep. Stansbury’s record of fighting hunger and supporting working families. Since coming to Congress, she has delivered funding for food banks, school meal programs, and community nutrition initiatives across New Mexico.

“Families in New Mexico are resilient, but they should never have to worry about whether Washington will take away their next meal during a shutdown,” added Stansbury. “The SNAP BACK Act makes sure that never happens again.”

Watch a recording of the press call on the bill introduction here.

Find a link to the bill text here.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-demands-epa-reinstate-solar-all-program-after-illegal-termination,Vasquez Demands EPA Reinstate Solar for All Program After Illegal Termination,2025-10-28,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 24, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a call demanding that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) immediately reverse its termination of the Solar for All program — a key initiative that was created to lower energy costs for working families and increase good-paying energy jobs.

In a letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, Rep. Vasquez opposed the agency’s decision to terminate the program and claw back lawfully obligated funds from important projects throughout the country. New Mexico was using these funds to install solar energy systems for low- and middle-income families, support people living on Tribal land without connection to the grid, and collaborate with local utilities to reduce energy costs in rural areas.

The letter states that the move has no legal basis, directly violates congressional intent, and would cause “economic uncertainty” for states and nonprofits that have already invested millions of dollars in workforce development and community partnerships.

“Cutting the Solar for All program is not just unlawful — it kicks New Mexico working class families down that were counting on these investments to lower their utility bills,” said Vasquez. “This program meant real savings, real jobs, and real opportunities for clean, renewable energy development. I’m demanding that the EPA do the right thing and reinstate Solar for All funding immediately.”

The EPA’s decision to rescind funding threatens to strip New Mexico of $156 million in federal investment meant to expand access to affordable solar energy. This translates to over 20,000 families losing access to affordable energy and the loss of $299 million in energy savings for New Mexicans over 20 years. The Solar for All program was designed to help communities like those in southern New Mexico reduce electricity bills, strengthen the electric grid, and grow local clean energy industries.

The full text of the letter can be found HERE.

Rep. Vasquez is a leader in ensuring southern New Mexico remains at the forefront of the fight for American energy independence, and he continues to work to secure the next generation of energy production and lower energy costs for consumers.

Vasquez fought back against the Department of Energy’s cut of $7.5 billion for oil and gas modernization projects, which would have helped New Mexico make the cleanest barrel of oil in the world.

Vasquez championed the Veterans Energy Transition (VET) Act to help connect transitioning servicemembers with high-quality jobs in America’s energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Vasquez advocated for increased funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help vulnerable households afford essential energy costs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-meets-las-cruces-seniors-tackle-rising-costs-and-protect,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Meets With Las Cruces Seniors to Tackle Rising Costs and Protect Social Security,2025-10-27,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Saturday, October 25, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with local seniors at a Las Cruces grocery store to hear directly about how the rising costs of groceries, housing, and health care are impacting their daily lives.

Vasquez spoke with Las Cruces residents Karen and Jack Zilbert about the difficult choices many seniors face just to make ends meet, from deciding which prescriptions to refill to stretching their grocery budgets each week. As they walked the aisles of a local grocery store together, the couple pointed out how prices on everyday essentials have climbed and shared their worries about how rising costs are squeezing seniors across New Mexico.

“Seniors like Karen and Jack are making tough decisions about what they can afford at the grocery store, and like many New Mexicans they’re rationing week by week. It’s unacceptable that this administration is focused on giving tax cuts to the rich while seniors and middle-class families struggle,” said Vasquez. “In the wealthiest nation in the world, folks like Karen and Jack who have worked hard all their lives deserve to age with dignity, stability, and peace of mind, without having to choose between food and health care.”

Vasquez remains committed to standing up for New Mexico seniors by protecting their benefits and lowering everyday costs:

Protecting Social Security

Championed the Social Security Fairness Act, which is now law, to ensure retired public servants receive the full benefits they’ve earned.

Called on Speaker Johnson to block any legislation that would cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits on behalf of millions of Americans who depend on these programs.

Opposed staffing cuts at the Social Security Administration, which have led to increased wait times and put local offices at risk of closing.

Combating Rising Health Care Costs

Co-sponsored the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act and the Bipartisan Premium Tax Credit Extension Act to extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits and keep health care costs from skyrocketing for seniors across New Mexico.

Voted against the Republican tax law that made it harder for seniors to qualify for Medicaid through increased work requirements, severely restricted payments to providers and medical facilities — leading to 1 in 4 nursing homes closing — and degraded Medicare’s ability to negotiate lower drug prices, causing increased prescription drug costs for seniors.

Fought to cap the cost of insulin at $35/month for folks with private insurance, Medicare Part D, or Medicare Advantage.

Promoting Affordable Housing

Introduced the Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act to crack down on corporate investors who raise rents and price out seniors living on fixed incomes.

Championed the HOME Act to make it illegal during a housing emergency to sell or rent homes for unreasonably high prices, ensuring New Mexicans on fixed incomes can afford a safe place to live.

Ensuring Access to Affordable, High-Quality Food

Voted to protect SNAP benefits and introduced the Healthy Foods for Native Seniors Act to expand access to nutritious foods in Tribal communities.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-melanie-stansbury-continues-work-nm-01-during-shutdown-introducing,"Rep. Melanie Stansbury Continues Work for NM-01 During Shutdown, Introducing Landmark Legislation on Tribal Housing to Strengthen, Modernize, and Expand Affordable Housing in Tribal Communities",2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) introduced two major pieces of legislation during the pro forma session in the House during the shutdown today — the Tribal Affordable Housing Act and the Tribal Housing Innovation Act — to strengthen, modernize, and expand access to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing in Tribal and Pueblo communities across New Mexico and nationwide.

Together, these bills reaffirm the federal government’s trust and treaty responsibilities to our Tribal Nations by investing in critical housing infrastructure and supporting Tribal sovereignty and self-determination, affordability, and sustainability.

“As our communities are facing a housing crisis, we must continue to do the work to invest in safe and affordable housing,” said Rep. Stansbury. “Far too long, Tribal communities have faced barriers to investment in housing. These bills are about keeping our promises—investing in the future of Tribal Nations by ensuring that every family has a home that is safe, sustainable, and built to last. As housing costs continue to skyrocket, these investments are urgently needed to protect and strengthen communities and make it possible for families to thrive.”

In addition to introducing these two bills, Congresswoman Stansbury also celebrated the opening of a new Early Childhood Education Center at the Pueblo of Sandia today, for which she helped secure $850,000 in federal funding to support. Congresswoman Stansbury also addressed her work to protect food assistance for families during the shutdown, including legislation she will be introducing in the coming days to protect the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC), which the Administration has threatened to cut off to families in November under a continued shutdown.

Watch a recording of the press call here.

The Tribal Affordable Housing Act

The Tribal Affordable Housing Act, endorsed by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), creates a competitive grant program within HUD to expand access to affordable housing in Tribal communities.

Key provisions include:

• Authorization of $150 million annually for Tribes to build new homes or upgrade existing housing.

• Competitive grants providing flexibility for Tribes to determine how best to meet their unique housing needs.

• Dedicated funding stream to help close the housing gap that has long left Tribal communities under-resourced.

This legislation ensures that Tribes have equitable access to federal housing resources and the flexibility to tailor solutions that meet the needs of their citizens.

The Tribal Housing Innovation Act

The Tribal Housing Innovation Act establishes a new grant program within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help Tribes remodel existing homes or build new sustainable housing.

Key provisions include:

• $150 million annually beginning in FY2025 to fund sustainable and resilient housing projects.

• Grants for constructing new homes or retrofitting existing ones with features that improve energy efficiency, air quality, and resilience.

• Eligible features include solar panels, insulation, energy-efficient appliances, fire-resistant materials, and measures to reduce allergens, mold, or pollutants.

• Applicants must submit detailed plans demonstrating capacity to carry out proposed projects.

The bill empowers Tribal Nations to improve housing durability, safety, and energy efficiency — while promoting environmental justice and sustainability.

“These bills will empower Tribal Nations to build their futures and strengthen the health, well-being, and opportunities of their communities,” Rep. Stansbury added. “They ensure that federal housing programs truly meet the needs of Tribal Nations by centering Tribal leadership, sustainability, and local decision-making.

Larry Wright Jr., Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians said, “We wholly endorse the Tribal Affordable Housing Act introduced by Representative Stansbury. This critically important legislation addresses a longstanding gap in federal housing support by specifically targeting tribes and tribally designated housing entities. In an environment where multiple families routinely reside in a single structure, this legislation protects tribal families by providing for a most basic need—a safe place to live with a roof over their heads.

The $150 million annual authorization also represents a significant investment in tribal sovereignty and self-determination, providing tribes the ability to build new homes and improve existing housing stock according to their own community needs and priorities. This legislation recognizes that modern, safe, affordable housing is fundamental to healthy tribal communities and economic development. We strongly encourage Congress to not only enact this legislation, but also appropriate funding needed to carry out the provisions within the Tribal Affordable Housing Act.”

Background

Tribal communities face some of the most acute housing shortages and infrastructure challenges in the United States. Many face shortages in housing stock, lack updated and modern infrastructure, need abatement to ensure housing is safe, and are vulnerable to changing conditions.

The Tribal Affordable Housing Act and Tribal Housing Innovation Act respond directly to these challenges — advancing equitable, sustainable, and community-driven housing solutions that uphold Tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/stansbury-spends-week-connecting-thousands-new-mexicans-gop-shutdown-drags,Stansbury Spends Week Connecting with Thousands of New Mexicans as GOP Shutdown Drags Into Fourth Week,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE – On day 24 of the Republican government shutdown, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) recapped a busy week at home connecting with New Mexicans and working to deliver for families across the state—while House Republicans continue to refuse to engage in bipartisan negotiations to save health care and fund the government.

Over the past week, Rep. Stansbury:

Distributed food to families in need through the lifesaving programs at the Storehouse West.

Delivered care packages to federal workers—currently working without pay—at New Mexico Social Security offices.

Held in-person town halls in Rio Rancho and Albuquerque, virtual and telephone town halls connecting with thousands across the country.

Updated Bipartisan Elected Officials in her district so they are better prepared to help their communities.

Met with TSA officers and other federal employees who continue to work without pay to keep New Mexicans safe.

Met with over a dozen Tribal Pueblo Governors to discuss the shutdown’s impact on critical tribal programs and services.

Hosted furloughed federal workers at a local brewery to thank them for their service and connect them with available resources.

Introduced two bills to protect and expand tribal housing programs.

After hearing from so many families with fears about SNAP and WIC cuts, she will introduce legislation requiring the Trump Administration to continue funding SNAP and WIC programs during the shutdown.

“This week, I heard countless stories from New Mexicans about how this Republican shutdown is hurting families—from federal workers going without paychecks to parents struggling to put food on the table,” said Rep. Stansbury. “The fear and uncertainty around losing SNAP benefits and access to food is overwhelming. That’s why I got to work immediately on legislation to protect SNAP and keep families from going hungry during the shutdown. I also heard from families terrified that their health insurance premiums will skyrocket next year unless Democrats keep fighting to protect affordable care.”

Rep. Stansbury continued,

“I’m heading back to Washington next week with a clear message: Democrats are showing up and fighting for the people. Health care, food security, and our economy are on the line—lives literally depend on it.”

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-usda-issue-funds-protect-new-mexican-families,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands USDA Issue Funds to Protect New Mexican Families’ November SNAP Benefits,2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 24, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a call demanding that Department of Agriculture Secretary Rollins use available contingency funds to ensure hardworking New Mexicans receive their November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits on time. Without immediate action, tens of thousands of New Mexico families could lose access to the food they rely on, forcing parents to choose between feeding their children and paying their other bills.

In a letter to Secretary Rollins, Rep. Vasquez and other Democratic lawmakers note, “USDA still has significant funding available in SNAP’s contingency reserve – which Congress provides precisely for this reason – that can be used to fund the bulk of November benefits. We urge USDA to use these funds for November SNAP benefits and issue clear guidance to states on how to navigate benefit issuance.”

“My top priority right now is working across the aisle with Republicans to end this shutdown as soon as possible, but in the interim, while Speaker Johnson remains unwilling to bring Republicans back to D.C. to negotiate, there is absolutely no reason for the administration to withhold SNAP benefits from New Mexican families who need this money to pay for food,” said Vasquez. “The administration must use every tool possible to ensure folks receive their November SNAP benefits on time and find a long-term solution to ensure New Mexicans have access to affordable food.”

New Mexico has the nation’s highest SNAP reliance rate, with 450,000 New Mexicans relying on the food assistance program to pay for groceries and other essentials.

1 in 4 New Mexicans rely on SNAP benefits, including many people with disabilities, seniors, veterans, and children

When looking at New Mexican children, this number increases to 1 in 2, with 38% of SNAP recipients in New Mexico under the age of 18

A majority (62%) of SNAP recipients work

SNAP benefits recently came under attack in the Republican tax law, which cut spending on food assistance by $186 billion in order to pay for tax breaks for billionaires and large corporations. Additionally, the administration’s tariffs policies continue to drive up the price of beef, coffee, and other basic groceries for New Mexican families.

As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Rep. Gabe Vasquez is committed to ensuring New Mexicans can afford to put high-quality, nutritious food on the table to fuel their families by:

Continuing to work with local food pantries like Roadrunner Food Bank to support federal funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program, which helps farmers and families by supporting the purchase of commodities to send them directly from farmers to food banks.

Working with state and local partners to protect access to free school lunch programs and expand food assistance programs that serve seniors and Tribal communities.

Pushing to fix SNAP, not cut it, with commonsense reforms like the Hot Foods Act to give families a full range of choices at the grocery store, including ready-to-eat meals.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-visits-nmsu-promote-local-economic-growth-through-small-business,"Rep. Vasquez Visits NMSU to Promote Local Economic Growth Through Small Business, STEM",2025-10-24,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 24, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) visited his alma mater, New Mexico State University, to focus on growing New Mexico’s local economy by bolstering pathways for young New Mexicans to start small businesses and pursue careers in STEM.

The campus visit started with a stop at the university’s student-run 100 West Cafe, where Rep. Vasquez met with students from the School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management and the school’s Fashion Merchandising and Design program. The conversation focused on experiential learning opportunities available to NMSU students and how these practical learning opportunities are preparing New Mexico’s next generation of small business owners.

Rep. Vasquez also discussed with students the retail industry’s role in regional development and workforce opportunities, as well as measures the Congressman has supported to stimulate small business opportunity and growth in the region, including:

The bipartisan Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act to promote economic development and job creation in border towns like Las Cruces

Support for funding requests for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to ensure small businesses in underserved and rural areas have access to financial institutions for loans and other similar services

Opposition to legislation that would restrict businesses from acquiring Small Business Administration (SBA) loans unless they were 100% owned by a US citizen or green card holder,which could potentially block funding and support for many New Mexican small businesses

Leadership on appropriations letters supporting the State Small Business Credit Initiative to ensure Tribal entrepreneurs and small businesses have equitable access to credit and business loans

“It’s clear to me our state’s young people are talented, motivated, and eager to get to work, and retaining their talent here in New Mexico is a key piece of the puzzle for growing our state’s economy,” said Vasquez. “I am working to ensure that as our state’s next generation of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and STEM professionals graduate, they have the tools and economic opportunities they need to get their businesses and research projects off the ground right here at home.”

The Congressman then spoke at the New Mexico Alliance for Minority Participation (AMP)’s annual statewide STEM student research conference at Corbett Center Student Union. In his remarks, the Congressman spoke about the importance of cultivating New Mexico’s next generation of STEM talent as a force for growing the state’s economy.

In his remarks, Rep. Vasquez said, “Going to college and pursuing higher education isn’t just about getting a piece of paper. It’s about expanding your horizons, opening doors to opportunity, and creating a foundation for a better future — not just for yourself, not even just for your family, but for our entire community and state… These STEM research initiatives aren’t just academic endeavors; they are a driving force in growing New Mexico’s economy.”

The Congressman has led efforts to secure funding for the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) at NASA to prepare the next generation of New Mexicans to become global leaders in the STEM field.

Rep. Vasquez ended his visit by speaking with student researchers about the cutting-edge STEM research they are leading across New Mexico.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/stansbury-leger-fernandez-swalwell-and-titus-slam-dangerous-trump-admin,"STANSBURY, LEGER FERNÁNDEZ, SWALWELL, AND TITUS SLAM DANGEROUS TRUMP ADMIN FURLOUGHS OF NATIONAL NUCLEAR SECURITY ADMINISTRATION WORKFORCE",2025-10-23,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), and Dina Titus (NV-01) today led 23 of their colleagues in a letter to Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Administrator Brandon Williams, condemning the unprecedented furlough of nearly 80 percent of the NNSA’s federal workforce amid the ongoing Republican government shutdown.

The letter warns that the furloughs—impacting more than 1,400 employees responsible for maintaining and securing the nation’s nuclear stockpile—pose a grave risk to U.S. national security and appear to be politically motivated.

“Furloughing the vast majority of the agency’s personnel is not only an unprecedented step, it is deeply harmful to U.S. national security,” the lawmakers wrote. “Undermining the agency’s workforce at such a challenging time for U.S. global leadership diminishes our credible deterrence, emboldens our international adversaries, and makes the world a more dangerous place.”

According to a notice sent to Congress, the NNSA announced that it will exhaust funding and furlough 1,400 employees, while about 375 Department of Energy direct hires will remain on the job.

The lawmakers note that this marks the first time in NNSA’s 25-year history that such furloughs have occurred during a government shutdown. They warn that the decision leaves the Department of Defense without its NNSA counterparts for key nuclear modernization programs and could be viewed by foreign adversaries as a sign of instability in the U.S. nuclear deterrent.

“It is very likely that your decision to furlough 1,400 NNSA workers is being seen in Moscow, Beijing, and Pyongyang as evidence of an unstable U.S. nuclear deterrent, presenting a unique and sobering threat to our national security,” the members continue.

The lawmakers demand that the Department of Energy and NNSA provide detailed responses to Congress by November 7, 2025, including:

The legal basis for designating most NNSA civilian employees as “non-essential.”

The total number of employees furloughed and remaining on duty.

A breakdown of impacted staff by department, program, and office.

A detailed plan for maintaining nuclear safety and oversight during the shutdown.

The letter urges the Administration to immediately rescind the furlough notice and return NNSA employees to duty to ensure the safety, security, and reliability of the nation’s nuclear stockpile.

“While Republicans have failed to use their governing mandate to keep the government open, we implore you to ensure that national security is not sacrificed as a consequence of their inaction,” the lawmakers wrote.“We urgently demand that you rescind this furlough notice and return NNSA employees to the important job of ensuring our nuclear stockpile is safe, secure, and reliable.”

The full letter can be found here and here:

Dear Secretary Wright and Administrator Williams,

We write to express our deep concern about the furlough of nearly 80% of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) federal workforce. Furloughing the vast majority of the agency’s personnel is not only an unprecedented step, it is deeply harmful to U.S. national security. While the Republicans’ government shutdown continues, we are also troubled that this announcement appears to be politically motivated rather than the result of careful deliberations amidst a funding shortfall.

In a notice sent to Congress, the NNSA announced that it will exhaust funding and will be forced to furlough 1,400 employees, while about 375 Department of Energy direct-hires will remain on the job. As you know, federal employees play a vital role in U.S. national security, and the NNSA is an essential component of our national nuclear security enterprise. From maintaining and modernizing our nuclear weapons stockpile, to overseeing the Navy’s nuclear propulsion, and managing nuclear nonproliferation programs, the United States is safer because of the dedicated public servants at NNSA, who have already been under attack by this Administration. These federal employees play a critical oversight role in ensuring that the work required to maintain nuclear security is carried out in accordance with long-standing policy and the law. Undermining the agency’s workforce at such a challenging time for U.S. global leadership diminishes our credible deterrence, emboldens our international adversaries, and makes the world a more dangerous place. Further, NNSA is working collaboratively with the Department of Defense on the modernization of our nuclear deterrent. Whereas NNSA has made the determination to not exempt the overwhelming majority of its federal employees, DOD has for nearly every program associated with nuclear modernization, leaving the Navy and Air Force without counterparts to continue this critical work.

The NNSA manages an extensive network of national labs throughout the United States. Each plays a unique role in ensuring our nuclear stockpile is safe, secure, and reliable. For example, the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS), managed by NNSA, is one of the premier facilities tasked with carrying out the NNSA’s mission. The NNSS is where NNSA’s Stockpile Stewardship Program deploys a wide range of technologies focused on experiments in weapons science to ensure the stockpile’s reliability. Since the United States no longer conducts full-scale nuclear tests, stockpile scientists at the NNSS obtain data from breakthrough experiments, engineering audits and analysis, high-tech computer simulations, and world-class diagnostic measurement systems to keep warheads reliable, safe, and secure. As the nuclear arsenal is now more than fifty-years-old, such experiments are imperative to understand and predict how these aging devices will perform if deployed. Per your announcement on October 20, 2025, approximately sixty-eight NNSA employees at the Nevada National Security Site have been furloughed, calling into question the safety and security of the sensitive material at NNSA facilities and the reliability of our arsenal.

As Secretary Wright noted in his press availability in Las Vegas, furloughing NNSA employees has never happened before. Government shutdowns, however, have occurred throughout the agency’s 25-year history. This is the fourth shutdown President Trump has presided over. But the NNSA has never furloughed employees during prior Trump shutdowns. It begs the question why this step was necessary now and why more NNSA employees were not deemed essential, given the gravity of their duties. In addition, this decision has far-reaching foreign policy consequences. With arms control and nuclear nonproliferation regimes slowly eroding as a result of the President’s lack of global leadership, our adversaries are keenly focused on this development. It is very likely that your decision to furlough 1,400 NNSA workers is being seen in Moscow, Beijing, and Pyongyang as evidence of an unstable U.S. nuclear deterrent, presenting a unique and sobering threat to our national security.

Congress has a right to know exactly how much more dangerous our lives are now that you have sent the vast majority of NNSA’s staff home. Accordingly, we demand answers to the following questions no later than November 7, 2025:

1. What is the legal basis for designating the majority of NNSA’s civilian employees as non-essential (not excepted) employees?

2. What is the total number of NNSA civilian employees that have been furloughed as of October 20, 2025?

3. What is the total number of NNSA civilian employees that remain on duty as of October 20, 2025?

4. How many civilian employees have been furloughed from each department, program, or office within the NNSA?

5. How many civilian employees remain on duty in each department, program, or office within the NNSA?

While Republicans have failed to use their governing mandate to keep the government open, we implore you to ensure that national security is not sacrificed as a consequence of their inaction. We urgently demand that you rescind this furlough notice and return NNSA employees to the important job of ensuring our nuclear stockpile is safe, secure, and reliable.

###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-push-reopen-government-and-combat-rising-health-care-costs,Rep. Vasquez Leads Push to Reopen Government and Combat Rising Health Care Costs for Farmers and New Mexicans Living in Rural Communities,2025-10-22,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune demanding action to protect farmers and New Mexicans living in rural areas from disproportionate increases in health care costs.

As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Vasquez is calling on Republican lawmakers to work with Democrats to pass a bipartisan funding bill that reopens the government and extends the ACA enhanced premium tax credits, which millions of farmers and Americans living in rural areas rely on to pay for their health insurance.

“[Republican] inaction on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhanced premium tax credits, combined with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s draconian cuts to Medicaid, are a betrayal of all Americans. But the burden of these cuts falls heavily on those who live in rural communities and those who work tirelessly to feed and fuel our nation,” states the letter, adding:

27% of farmers rely on ACA marketplaces to pay for their health care coverage

People living in rural areas will experience 28% higher health care cost increases compared to their urban counterparts

2.8 million Americans enrolled in ACA marketplace plans live in rural counties

In the first half of 2025, farm bankruptcies have increased 57% year-over-year

“New Mexicans living in rural communities that work our fields, grow food, and sustain local economies shouldn’t suffer from Republican health care cuts that impact their everyday living. Rural hospital closures, rising input costs, and reckless tariffs will have a huge and unnecessary impact,” said Vasquez. “We are the wealthiest nation in the world and we are fully capable of supporting the folks who keep our country fed and fueled. Instead, they’re being forced to choose between buying medicine and keeping the lights on.”

Since September, Vasquez has been leading an effort urging Republican lawmakers to return to Washington and negotiate in good faith to reopen the government and keep health care affordable. He is also a cosponsor of the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act and the Bipartisan Premium Tax Credit Extension Act, both of which would extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credits and keep health care costs from skyrocketing for farmers, families, and individuals across New Mexico.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-us-representative-gabe-vasquez-reports-ices-increasingly-aggressive,Statement from U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez on Reports of ICE’s Increasingly Aggressive Mass Deportation Tactics,2025-10-16,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement in response to recent reports of ICE’s use of increasingly aggressive tactics across the country, including in Chicago and Los Angeles, such as haphazard detentions, use of full-body restraints, detention of American citizens, and mass raids conducted by masked agents.

“The images and videos depicting ICE’s increasingly violent arrests and detention practices — including excessive use of force, racial profiling, and disregard of individual civil rights — are incredibly alarming. Especially troubling, and unconstitutional, are reports of U.S. citizens and legal residents being unlawfully detained, with ICE tearing hardworking families apart in the process. While we all agree that violent criminals should face justice, this administration is instead arbitrarily detaining and profiling working class people based on the color of their skin and the language they speak. This is blatant government overreach and an abuse of power that has no place in our country.

Our immigration system should be rooted in dignity, fairness, and respect for human rights. That means focusing our resources on removing violent offenders who pose a threat to our communities, not rounding up innocent parents in front of their children. These mass raids are creating fear and chaos in neighborhoods across the country, undermining trust between law enforcement and the communities they are meant to serve.

ICE is also attempting to poach officers from local law enforcement agencies in places like Albuquerque, and I agree with local police chiefs that these desperate recruitment tactics will have a negative impact on the safety of our communities. Moving officers away from investigating gun crimes and other public safety threats, like drug trafficking, will not make our streets safer.

As a representative of 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border and a majority Hispanic population, I know firsthand that we can secure our borders and keep our families safe without resorting to cruelty. The people of New Mexico are proud of who they are, the long cultural ties they share, the languages they speak, and will not accept the Trump administration’s racial profiling in their communities. I will continue fighting for immigration policies that reflect our American values: safety, due process, and humanity.”

Vasquez is championing a new way forward on immigration and border security. He recently led the New Dems Coalition’s comprehensive Immigration and Border Security Framework, reintroduced his Strengthening Our Workforce Act to provide a path to legal status for individuals who work in critical industries and pass a background check, and reintroduced his Humane Accountability Act to ensure proper oversight of ICE enforcement and detention efforts.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-reaffirms-commitment-expanding-access-mental-health-care,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Reaffirms Commitment to Expanding Access to Mental Health Care on World Mental Health Day,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on World Mental Health Day, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring every New Mexican has access to affordable, high-quality mental and behavioral health care by championing a package of behavioral health bills.

New Mexico faces one of the nation’s highest rates of suicide and behavioral health workforce shortages, challenges that hit rural and Tribal communities in southern New Mexico especially hard. Vasquez, who represents one of the most diverse and geographically vast districts in the country, has made tackling these disparities a cornerstone of his work in Congress.

“Access to high quality, affordable mental health care shouldn’t depend on your income or your ZIP code,” said Vasquez. “In New Mexico and across the country, too many families are struggling in silence. Whether it’s a veteran fighting PTSD, a student dealing with anxiety, or a senior facing isolation, everyone deserves access to the help they need and the hope they deserve.”

As a member of the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, Vasquez has championed a series of bills to strengthen behavioral health services, expand access to care, and better equip communities to respond to mental and behavioral health needs.

His mental health legislative package includes:

H.R. 3808, the Expanding Seniors Access to Mental Health Services Act, which allows Medicare to reimburse clinical social workers providing behavioral health services in nursing homes and other care facilities.

H.R. 2502, the Law Enforcement Training for Mental Health Crisis Response Act, which funds mental and behavioral health crisis response training for law enforcement and corrections officers.

H.R. 3534, the Mental Health in Schools Excellence Program Act, which addresses the shortage of school-based counselors, social workers, and psychologists by supporting graduate students entering those fields.

H.R. 1231, the START Housing Act, which expands recovery housing and wraparound support for individuals transitioning out of substance use treatment — particularly in New Mexico, where the Recovery Housing Program already operates successfully.

Vasquez has also led efforts to protect Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), such as FYI+ in Las Cruces and Lifehouse in Carlsbad, by urging Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy to protect the CCBHC Expansion Grant Program.

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month this past September, Vasquez also supported H.Res. 551, expressing bipartisan support for National Stop SuiSilence Day, aimed at breaking mental health stigmas and encouraging those struggling to seek help.

Vasquez is committed to working across party lines to ensure that from Silver City to Hobbs, every family can find quality, affordable mental health care close to home.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-gaza-ceasefire,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Gaza Ceasefire,2025-10-10,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 10, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement after Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange — the first step in the Trump Administration’s plan to end the two-year conflict.

“I have long been calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, and I am immensely relieved to see that a tentative deal has been reached. I eagerly await the return of all hostages and peace and stability in Gaza,” said Vasquez. “A lot of work lies ahead on the road to recovery — and so much of the loss caused by this cruel conflict can never truly be repaired — but this is a promising first step toward peace in the region. We must now take on the hard work of helping a nation rebuild and heal.”

“I will continue to monitor the situation closely and work to ensure that the United States lends its support as a good faith partner to help this region recover from the past two years of tragedy and suffering.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-fights-save-affordable-health-care-new-mexicans-bipartisan-solution,Vasquez Fights to Save Affordable Health Care for New Mexicans with Bipartisan Solution,2025-10-09,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored the Bipartisan Premium Tax Credit Extension Act, reaching across the aisle to find a bipartisan end to the government shutdown and furthering a federal solution to protect over 50,000 New Mexicans from devastating health insurance cost increases.

Under current law, the ACA enhanced premium tax credits (EPTC) are set to expire at the end of this year, doubling premiums for over 17,000 residents of New Mexico’s second district who purchase insurance through the ACA marketplace. Without intervention, this expiration would drive up monthly health insurance costs for the average family by nearly $600 per month.

New Mexico’s state legislature just passed an emergency relief package to temporarily shield New Mexicans from an immediate health insurance rate hike, but this solution is not sustainable and will cause funds to be diverted from other important areas of state funding, such as public safety, education, and affordable housing.

With the Bipartisan Premium Tax Credit Extension Act, Rep. Vasquez is supporting a bipartisan effort to extend the ACA EPTCs for one year. This would keep critical federal funding in place, allow Congress to continue to negotiate a long-term federal solution, and empower New Mexico to retain state resources to invest in other local priorities — from purchasing and equipping law enforcement vehicles to investing in affordable housing solutions to reducing homelessness across the state.

“The Bipartisan Premium Tax Credit Extension Act shows that commonsense Republicans and Democrats are willing to come together and agree the federal government needs to keep investing in the health of its citizens,” said Vasquez. “New Mexico should not have to foot the bill when Republicans in Congress decide to slash millions of Americans’ access to health insurance in order to give tax breaks to billionaires.""

Vasquez supported this bill after hearing concerns about rising health care costs directly from constituents, patients, and health care providers across southern New Mexico. In September, Vasquez hosted a roundtable with patients who benefit from the EPTCs, as well as caregivers, health care providers, and health care officials who raised concerns about what the expiration of federal support would mean for access to preventative care, rural hospital closures, and rising mortality rates. The Congressman remains committed to protecting access to affordable health care and rural hospital services for New Mexico families.

Vasquez previously led a letter to Speaker Johnson urging him to reverse his decision to cancel voting days in the House of Representatives ahead of the government shutdown, instead urging members to work together to find a bipartisan solution to keep the government open and prevent health care costs from skyrocketing. He is also a cosponsor of the Protecting Health Care and Lowering Costs Act, which would reverse these devastating health care cuts and permanently extend the ACA EPTCs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-push-protect-troops-pay-amidst-shutdown,Rep. Vasquez Leads Push to Protect Troops’ Pay Amidst Shutdown,2025-10-08,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 8, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a push to support our military service members amidst the ongoing government shutdown, urging Speaker Johnson to bring Republican lawmakers back to work in D.C. to pass a bill that ensures troops are paid by the looming October 15 deadline.

“If Congress does not act by October 15th, nearly three million military families will miss their next paycheck. That’s unacceptable — our military families and troops deserve better,” noted the letter to Speaker Johnson, which was led by Rep. Vasquez, co-led by Rep. Derek Tran, and co-signed by 77 other House Democrats. Should Congress fail to act, 22,000 active duty and reserve personnel in New Mexico will be forced to work without pay.

“Our troops selflessly serve and defend our country every single day, and they deserve to be paid on time for their work,” said Vasquez. “I’m calling on Speaker Johnson to do what’s right for our military families and get Republicans back to Washington to vote to pay our servicemen and women. There’s no excuse for inaction, because when it comes to paying our troops, there is no room for partisan politics.”

“Our troops put their lives on the line for our freedom. They have our backs; Congress needs to have theirs. I’m proud to fight for our troops to get the pay that they have earned. It’s not just the right thing to do — it’s essential for the safety of our country,” said Rep. Derek Tran. “As a Veteran, I saw firsthand that our troops already make far too little — often living paycheck to paycheck. Instead of working across the aisle to deliver better pay and benefits for our troops, Republicans have taken a paid vacation while the government is shut down, leaving nearly three million military families out in the cold. Our heroes shouldn’t have to pay the price for typical Washington dysfunction. I’m proud to join Representative Gabe Vasquez to lead this important effort to get our troops the pay they have earned. I am eager to work across the aisle to reopen the government, protect health care, and stand up for the dedicated men and women who serve our country.”

This push to protect troop pay builds on Rep. Vasquez’s ongoing commitment to work across the aisle to reach a funding deal that ends the government shutdown, protects working class Americans’ access to health care, and ensures New Mexico’s state government isn’t left to foot the bill for federal programs.

Vasquez is also a cosponsor of H.R. 5401, the Pay Our Troops Act, a bipartisan bill to ensure that services members, as well as civilian employees and contractors, are paid during the shutdown. The letter highlights that during the 2013 government shutdown, Congress successfully passed the Pay Our Military Act, a similar bill which provided pay for members of the Armed Forces during a government shutdown.

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Vasquez is a strong supporter of the U.S. military and the brave service members who defend our country.

Rep. Vasquez has repeatedly championed efforts to improve service members’ quality of life, including:

His introduction of the TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, a measure which helps military families serving in remote areas access health care and was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which just passed the House.

His support of a historic 14.5% pay increase for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% pay increase for all other service members in the FY25 NDAA.

His work to improve the availability and quality of housing and other quality of life infrastructure at remote installations such as White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) as a part of the FY25 NDAA, as well as a letter to the Secretary of the Army asking why $7 million in housing improvement funds were delayed from reaching WSMR for over a year.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-condemns-administrations-135m-cuts-new-mexico-energy-modernization,Rep. Vasquez Condemns Administration’s $135M Cuts to New Mexico Energy Modernization Projects,2025-10-07,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 7, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) condemned the administration’s decision to cut $135 million in Department of Energy funding for projects in New Mexico, including $56 million in canceled investment for oil and gas modernization efforts in New Mexico’s second district. He was joined by 164 other House members.

Nationally, over $7.5 billion in Department of Energy project funding was canceled across 16 Democratic-leaning states at the direction of the administration amidst shutdown negotiations. Rep. Vasquez sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Wright demanding that these funds be restored. This politically motivated, retaliatory action negatively impacts America’s energy independence and economy.

“The administration just cut $56 million in funding for oil and gas modernization projects in my district,” said Vasquez. “New Mexicans want innovation and lower utility prices, not political retribution.”

The letter noted the negative impact of these cuts on the American economy and consumer, stating, “The projects that the Department of Energy (DOE) has unilaterally decided to cancel were driving down costs for all our constituents—regardless of their political affiliation. Household electric bills have already increased 10% nationally since January 2025 and are poised to spike even further.”

All four projects cut in Rep. Vasquez’s district were housed at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro. Working in partnership with the oil and gas industry, these projects focused on developing advanced carbon capture technologies and retrofitting aging rigs and processing facilities to reduce methane leaks in the field. New Mexico was already seeing the benefits of this kind of innovation, with oil and gas producers in the state making the cleanest barrel of oil in the nation thanks to groundbreaking research made possible by federal investments in New Mexico’s universities and scientific community.

“By cutting these projects, the administration has hamstrung our state’s ability to modernize oil and gas development in places like the Four Corners and the Permian Basins,” added Vasquez.

These projects in NM-02 included:

$42.7M: Four Corners Carbon Storage Hub: CarbonSAFE Phase III Project

$1.4M: Engineering Highly-Scalable and Efficient Sorption Materials for Direct Air Capture

$5.98M: Advanced Retrofit Technologies for Methane (ART-CH4) Emission Mitigation from Compressor Stations: Multiple Field Deployments and Demonstrations

$5.9M: Methane Emission Mitigation by Field Deployment of Innovative Controlled Combustion Technology

Hear more from Rep. Vasquez on these funding cuts by listening to his recent segment on KRWG public radio here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-stands-strong-new-mexico-federal-workers-and-american-people,"Rep. Stansbury Stands Strong for New Mexico, Federal Workers, and the American People as Trump and the GOP Shut Down the Government",2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement on the shutdown of the federal government after Donald Trump and the Republican-led Congress refused to negotiate to keep the government open and address the imminent healthcare crisis:

""Tonight, it is clear that Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress would rather shut down the government than fund vital programs and address the looming healthcare crisis that will affect tens of millions of Americans. For months, Democrats have sought to negotiate in good faith and have fought to stop cuts to healthcare, food, education, and other essential programs. But Republicans have rammed through cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and basic healthcare programs that threaten the lives and livelihoods of millions, all while giving permanent tax breaks to billionaires.

""Meanwhile, Republicans canceled votes and refused to even show up at the Capitol to work this week, allowing the government to shut down.

""We won’t stand idly by as they systematically destroy the programs our communities depend on. We’re here to fight for our communities—even if Republicans won’t show up to do their jobs. Thankfully, New Mexico is leading the way and will convene a special legislative session starting tomorrow to address the healthcare, food assistance, and public broadcasting cuts that Republicans forced through at the federal level,"" said Rep. Melanie Stansbury.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-government-shutdown,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Government Shutdown,2025-10-01,2025,2025-10,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On October 1, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement on the government shutdown:

“This shutdown will harm millions of Americans, but so will allowing Republicans to permanently close rural hospitals in our district and kick millions off their health insurance,” said Vasquez. “While Republicans cancel votes and refuse to negotiate, I remain ready to reach across the aisle to pass a funding bill that works for the American people and protects New Mexicans’ health care.”

Rep. Vasquez is fighting to protect New Mexicans’ access to health care with a funding bill that extends ACA enhanced premium tax credits for working class Americans.

Due to Republicans’ refusal to negotiate a bipartisan funding bill that protects Americans’ access to care, the government shutdown will have the following impacts:

Health care: 40,000 New Mexicans in NM-02 risk losing coverage; 8 rural hospitals in NM-02 are at risk of closure; premiums could spike nearly $600/month per family.

Workers & military families: More than 22,000 federal employees and an additional 22,000 active duty and reserve personnel in New Mexico will be furloughed or forced to work without pay.

Seniors & veterans: Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits could face dangerous processing delays.

Small businesses & farmers: SBA loans, USDA programs, and disaster relief could be delayed, hurting growth and stability for New Mexico’s small business owners and farmers.

Community safety & travel: Air travel delays will occur as TSA agents and air traffic controllers are forced to work without pay. Nationally, for every week the federal government remains shut down, America's travel economy loses $1 billion.

Families in need: New Mexicans relying on SNAP could face food insecurity if the shutdown continues late into October.

National park closures at places like Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands will devastate local economies that rely on tourism.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:32:54Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-delivers-wins-new-mexico-military-service-members-honors,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Delivers Wins for New Mexico Military Service Members, Honors Downwinders",2025-09-30,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 10, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual bill that for more than six decades has set national defense policy and priorities. As part of the package, two bills led by U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) passed the House, alongside more than a dozen additional wins he secured for New Mexicans — ensuring their voices and needs are reflected in the nation’s defense investments.

The NDAA, which passed the House, contains Vasquez’s TRICARE Travel Improvement Act and Downwinder Commemoration Act, both of which reflect his commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of New Mexico’s military service members and Downwinder community.

“I’m proud to deliver these important wins for New Mexico,” said Vasquez. “These bills expand access to essential health care for our military families at Holloman and White Sands and provide long-overdue recognition to the families impacted by the Trinity Test. They honor their sacrifice and ensure that the people who have carried this weight for generations finally receive the recognition they deserve.”

The TRICARE Travel Improvement Act helps military families serving in remote areas access health care by reducing the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty service members and their families. Currently, families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who travel nearly 100 miles to El Paso for medical care are denied reimbursement due to being just under the threshold. This bill is a step toward fairness and affordability for New Mexico’s military families.

The Downwinder Commemoration Act recognizes the harm endured by New Mexico’s Downwinders following the 1945 Trinity Test — the first nuclear detonation in U.S. history. It directs the Departments of Defense (DOD) and Interior to place commemorative monuments in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. Despite their exposure to radioactive fallout, Downwinder families were excluded from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) until Rep. Vasquez’s successful push to reauthorize and expand RECA to include New Mexico’s Downwinders. This bill helps deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating their suffering while preserving their legacy for future generations.

In addition to these two measures, Rep. Vasquez secured the following priorities in NDAA:

Infrastructure & Safety:

White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) Power Grid: $38.5 million for power generation and a microgrid at WSMR under the Energy Resiliency and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP).

Kirtland Air Force Base Space HQ: $83 million for Space Rapid Capabilities Office Headquarters construction at Kirtland Air Force Base.

Holloman Air Force Base Test Track: Report language highlighting the importance of Holloman’s High Speed Test Track and requiring a report on the timeline for constructing a new parallel track.

Cannon Air Force Base Dorms: $90 million for dorms at Cannon Air Force Base

PFAS Coordinator: Language establishing a new position at DOD for a coordinator to engage directly with defense communities impacted by PFAS contamination.

PFAS Cleanup: Language protecting mandated annual reports on DOD PFAS contamination and cleanup efforts, to ensure states like New Mexico have continued visibility into PFAS contamination.

PFAS Technology: Report language requiring DOD to partner with universities like NMSU to develop cutting edge technology to detect and cleanup PFAS contaminants.

Unexploded Ordnance:

Native American Lands Environmental Mitigation Program: Report language holding DOD accountable for cleaning up unexploded ordnance (UXO) on Tribal lands like the Pueblo of Isleta.

Rural Issues:

Rural Housing: Report language requiring DOD to partner with local housing authorities in rural areas to address shortages of housing around remote and isolated installations like WSMR and Holloman Air Force Base.

Specialty Healthcare at Rural Bases: Report language highlighting the challenges service members and families face at rural installations when accessing specialty healthcare and requiring a report on ways the Department can improve specialty provider accessibility.

Holloman Air Force Base Childcare: Report language encouraging DOD to expand the in-home childcare pilot program to four rural installations, including Holloman Air Force Base.

National Labs/DOE:

Los Alamos: $1.55 billion for plutonium operations, including ensuring the capacity to produce 30 plutonium pits annually.

Other Bill Highlights:

Pay Raise: 3.8% pay raise for all service members.

Housing: $1.5 billion for new construction of dorms, barracks, housing, and child development centers.

Ukraine: $400 million for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.

Environment: $460 million for environmental cleanup and $684 for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program.

For over 60 years, the NDAA has been a testament to the shared bipartisan work of conducting oversight of DOD and supporting America’s national defense. House Republicans put these wins — and an otherwise strong bipartisan bill — at risk by adding unrelated social provisions that do nothing to strengthen our national security.

The bill now must be consolidated with the Senate’s NDAA. Vasquez remains committed to protecting the provisions in this bill that deliver results for New Mexico’s service members, families, and installations while strengthening America’s national security.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-rep-stansbury-holds-press-conference-pending-government-shutdown,VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Holds Press Conference on Pending Government Shutdown,2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE—Representative Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) held a press conference today to address the looming government shutdown. Federal funding is set to expire at midnight on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Without passage of a funding bill or short-term Continuing Resolution, a shutdown will begin at 12:01 AM on Wednesday, October 1.

Rep. Stansbury outlined the broad impacts of a shutdown, including disruptions to critical federal agency operations, threats from OMB Director Russell Vought of mass federal employee firings, and specific consequences for New Mexico.

She also highlighted the proactive response at the state level: a special legislative session called by the Governor and state leaders to address anticipated shortfalls in health care, food assistance, and public broadcasting. New Mexico is among a few states preparing state-level responses to federal inaction.

“Let me be clear: New Mexico’s entire Congressional delegation is showing up for our state and the American people—despite efforts by Republican leadership to cancel votes, the President’s refusal to negotiate, and threats of mass firings.

“Republicans control the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives and have all but guaranteed a shutdown by refusing to negotiate in good faith.

“Democrats are fighting to keep the government open, address devastating cuts to Medicaid and heath care premiums, and abuses of Constitutional power.

“Here’s what we want: keep the government open, restore Medicaid and federal health care programs, and stop Administrative overreach and mass firings of federal employees. It’s that simple.

“Without action, New Mexico could face some of the deepest health care cuts in the country, affecting families and businesses.

“We’re ready to work with our Republican colleagues to put communities and the American people first—because that’s who we serve.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-celebrates-national-public-lands-day-encourages-new-mexicans,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Celebrates National Public Lands Day, Encourages New Mexicans to Get Outside and Visit Fee-Free",2025-09-26,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Saturday, September 27, is National Public Lands Day. To mark the occasion and honor the value of our public lands, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a bipartisan resolution with Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01) and Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) to encourage Americans to visit and celebrate our public lands on this fee-free day.

This Saturday, in honor of National Public Lands Day, all National Parks that typically charge entrance fees will be accessible free of charge. Additionally, park visitors who volunteer on National Public Lands Day will receive a free one-day pass redeemable at any national park of their choosing.

“New Mexico’s public lands are irreplaceable — they drive rural economies, preserve our history, and provide us with water, wildlife and so many cherished memories and experiences for all our families,” said Vasquez. “That’s why I founded the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus and why I’m encouraging every New Mexican to get outside today and enjoy the beauty of everything our state has to offer on National Public Lands Day.”

Members from across the United States and the political spectrum cosponsored this resolution, many of whom are members of the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus. This includes Representatives Ansari, Holmes Norton, Cleaver, Brownley, Smith (WA), Carter, Espaillat, Suozzi, Elfreth, Case, Torres (NY), Neguse, Quigley, Watson Coleman, Horsford, Vargas, Meng, Escobar, Kim, LaLota, Hoyle, Evans (CO), Bonamici, Lawler, Fitzpatrick, Lee (NV), Krishnamoorthi, DeGette, Stanton, and Pettersen.

“Public lands are central to our national heritage,” Rep. Titus said. “They are our common ground as Americans, owned by the people and preserved for generations. They include places that represent our culture and history, are engines for rural and national economies, and are hallowed ground for tribes. It is my hope that people will take this day to visit our forests, our wild and scenic rivers, our national monuments and conservation areas. It is a day to recognize the beauty of this nation.”

Rep. Vasquez’s National Public Lands Day resolution was endorsed by many conservation and outdoor advocacy organizations, including: Conservation Lands Foundation; Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors (HECHO); Nevada Conservation League; Sierra Club Toiyabe Chapter; National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA); Trail Access Project; Friends of Avi Kwa Ame; Friends of Sloan Canyon; Get Outdoors Nevada; The Wilderness Society; League of Conservation Voters; Nevada Environmental Justice Coalition; Native Voters Alliance NV; The Nature Conservancy; Trout Unlimited; Friends of Red Rock Canyon; Save Red Rock; Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC); and Black Mountain Institute.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-fight-protect-new-mexicos-public-lands-administrations,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Fight to Protect New Mexico’s Public Lands from Administration’s Rollback of Roadless Area Protections,2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 19, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a call to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, urging New Mexico’s exclusion from the administration’s effort to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule.

“The administration’s effort to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule will directly harm New Mexico’s public lands and the people who depend on them,” said Vasquez.“Undoing these safeguards will increase wildfire risks, hinder New Mexicans’ access to outdoor recreation, and harm an industry that fuels thousands of jobs. I’ll never stop working to ensure New Mexico’s lands remain protected and that the administration listens to voices from our state about what is best for New Mexico.”

In New Mexico, there are more than 1.6 million acres of roadless areas, which contribute to the state's important outdoor recreation industry. The outdoor recreation industry brings in $3.2 billion annually and supports nearly 30,000 jobs. Many visitors come to the state specifically for the chance to enjoy wide-open, backcountry activities.

This public call to Secretary Rollins builds on Rep. Vasquez’s strong track record of protecting New Mexico’s public lands. Vasquez is a proud leader of the Roadless Area Conservation Act, which would codify the Roadless Rule. Rep. Vasquez, joined by 55 of his House colleagues, also sent a letter to Secretary Rollins expressing concern that the current public comment period for their proposal to repeal the Roadless Rule does not allow for meaningful public participation and urging her to extend the public comment period by 30 days.

In addition, earlier this year, Rep. Vasquez co-founded the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which played a critical role in preventing the proposed selloff of 3.3 million acres of public lands in the Republican tax law, and he spearheaded the bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act, which would protect hunting and fishing access by requiring congressional approval for the sale or transfer of public land.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-shines-light-looming-expiration-aca-enhanced-premium-tax,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Shines Light on Looming Expiration of ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, Devastating Impact on New Mexicans’ Health and Cost of Living",2025-09-24,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) hosted a roundtable and press conference on the looming expiration of Affordable Care Act Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (EPTCs). He stressed the negative impact letting these tax credits expire would have on New Mexicans’ health outcomes and cost of living, as well as why these tax credits are front and center in current negotiations over a possible government shutdown.

View the press conference here.

Joined by patients who benefit from the EPTCs, caregivers, health care providers, and health care officials, Vasquez delivered a clear message: Congress must act now because New Mexicans cannot afford skyrocketing premiums.

Vasquez emphasized that if Congressional Republicans allow the EPTCs to expire, over 51,000 New Mexicans will see an average increase of $578 per month in health care premium costs. For those living in rural areas across the country, the hit will be even worse: premiums could rise by as much as 90 percent. Vasquez underscored that these aren’t abstract numbers — they represent small business owners and others across southern New Mexico who could be priced out of access to health care.

“For many New Mexico families, these tax credits are the difference between being able to see a doctor or losing health coverage altogether,” said Vasquez. “And when New Mexicans are pushed off their health care coverage — whether it be from the expiration of these tax credits or the recent Republican cuts to Medicaid — health care costs will rise across New Mexico, as hospitals and providers charge people with private insurance more to offset the cost of caring for the uninsured. This is everyone’s problem.”

Vasquez highlighted his Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act, which would permanently extend the EPTCs and lift the income cap so more middle-class families can access relief. The bill would also reverse recent cuts to Medicaid. He also noted that the day prior he — joined by 55 of his colleagues — had sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson raising concerns about the Speaker’s decision to cancel voting days ahead of the government shutdown and urging bipartisan negotiations to keep the government open and health care costs low.

Community speakers included:

Virgil Medina, CEO at La Clinica De Familia

Dr. Andazola, Chief Medical Officer at La Clinica De Familia

Yvette Ramirez Ammerman, CEO at NM Primary Care Association

Victoria Hernandez, Outreach and Engagement Specialist at BeWell

Key concerns raised by roundtable attendees and community speakers around the expiration of ACA enhanced premium tax credits included:

Hospital and clinic closures in local communities, as well as a resulting loss in good-paying jobs

A decrease in patient access to preventative care and worsening health outcomes

Rising mortality rates

Health care service reductions

Decreased access to specialists

“We employ 540 individuals in the surrounding area, and the impact of the expiration of these tax credits could be devastating to those individuals, as well as for our low- and middle-income patients,” said Virgil Medina, CEO at La Clinica De Familia. “Uncompensated care will continue to fall in our lap. But our ability to tap into some of the coverages that currently exist allows us to keep our doors open. These cuts are going to continue to make that a huge challenge as that uncompensated care number rises, and the number of services we can offer to patients will suffer. We will be forced to make some very, very difficult decisions that impact the communities we live in and continue to serve. As patients skip or delay care, we will see people come in sicker and sicker, making it hard for our doctors to provide the care that they need.”

“We are going to have to make cuts. We might have to close clinics. What happens to patients if they don’t have clinics available in their communities? All that does is worsen the overall health of our community,” said Dr. Andazola, Chief Medical Officer at La Clinica De Familia. “The number one cause of bankruptcy in the United States is health care bills. And today, we are talking about cutting coverage for people that barely have it. What does that do? Those people are going to come to us sicker. We need to put roadblocks in front of all these cuts — to Medicaid cuts, to the expiration of ACA enhanced premium tax credits — to reduce threats to our patients.”

“We aren’t even meeting the health needs of people in Las Cruces right now. To imagine more cuts doesn’t even seem realistic,” said Tamara, a patient at La Clinica De Familia. “I am a disabled person from COVID, and if I could no longer see specialists, how would I be able to receive the help I need? I am in chronic pain everyday, and I know I am not the only one. There are thousands of other people like me that are in the same situation as me.”

“If money goes away from these clinics, they will go away, and they will be very hard to replace,” said Yvette Ramirez Ammerman, CEO at NM Primary Care Association. “Everyone will be in the ERs, and mortality rates will rise. Thank you Congressman, for taking on this issue and supporting community health centers.”

“Currently in New Mexico, we have over 75,000 of our fellow New Mexicans who get their health insurance through BeWell. Of those individuals, about 88% currently receive enhanced premium tax credits. If coverage becomes unaffordable, New Mexicans are going to be forced to make some tough decisions, like whether they continue to receive coverage or make their car payment. We are asking Congress to act now,” said Victoria Hernandez, Outreach and Engagement Specialist at BeWell.

“We are in a moment of truth in Congress right now with this fight over the expiration of ACA enhanced premium tax credits. It’s not a red issue, it’s not a blue issue — it’s an American issue. We all deserve to access health care,” said Vasquez.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-house-democrats-demand-johnson-do-his-job-work-across-aisle,"Rep. Vasquez Leads House Democrats’ Demand that Johnson Do His Job, Work Across the Aisle, and Avoid Government Shutdown",2025-09-23,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 23, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led House Democrats in calling out Speaker Mike Johnson’s irresponsible decision to cancel House voting days on September 29 and 30 with no government funding deal in sight - guaranteeing a shutdown.

Rep. Vasquez’s letter to Johnson — co-led by Rep. Hillary Scholten and signed by 56 House Democrats — raises serious concerns about the Speaker’s decision to cancel votes with no plan to fund the government ahead of the shutdown deadline next week. The same day, the President canceled a meeting with Democratic leaders Jeffries and Schumer to discuss a path to averting a government shutdown.

“Instead of canceling votes and continuing to push partisan agendas, it is time for the Majority to reach across the aisle and be open to compromise,” stated the letter. “The September 30 midnight deadline is quickly approaching, but there is still time to craft a bipartisan bill that keeps the government open, prevents health care costs from skyrocketing for millions of Americans, and upholds our constitutional duty.”

The letter states plainly that Rep. Vasquez and his Democratic co-signers stand ready to work with Republicans, negotiate in good faith, and find a bipartisan path to avoid a government shutdown that will hurt all the communities they represent.

“I’m ready to work with Republicans to negotiate a government funding bill that stops our healthcare premiums from rising, ensures servicemen and women are paid, and restores the American people’s faith in government,” said Vasquez. “Unfortunately, Republicans have not agreed to compromise and have instead canceled critical votes and meetings that would keep our government open. It’s no way to govern and ignores the realities that everyday New Mexicans are facing.”

“Folks back home know this simple rule – you don't go home until the job is done,” the letter added. “When the going gets tough, the tough get to work. Members of Congress need to do the same.”

You can read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-vote-against-republican-continuing-resolution,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Vote Against the Republican Continuing Resolution,2025-09-19,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 19, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement on his vote against the Republican Continuing Resolution (CR):

“A government shutdown is harmful, and it’s critical that we find a bipartisan solution that works for New Mexico. I cannot vote for a bill that skyrockets health care costs, forces rural hospitals to close, and takes health care away from New Mexicans who depend on it. Already, families can’t afford their prescriptions, seniors are choosing between a gallon of milk and a shot of insulin, and veterans can’t get the specialty care they’ve earned.

Republicans control the House, the Senate, and the administration — and they’re choosing to leave New Mexicans behind. I’m eager to work with Republicans on a budget that addresses the real needs of Americans — one that protects the healthcare of working class families.

There is still time for real compromise and negotiation. I will continue to push for, and would support, a responsible, bipartisan agreement that keeps our rural hospitals open and healthcare costs down,” said Vasquez.

This summer, Vasquez visited Socorro General Hospital, where staff warned that the Republican tax law threatens access to care for expectant mothers. He also visited Carlsbad Medical Center and heard from hospital leadership about how the tax law will limit access to care, raise insurance premiums, and worsen the provider shortage in the state. Vasquez has cosponsored legislation to reverse healthcare cuts and called on Congressional leadership to permanently extend ACA tax credits.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-action-social-media-giants-stop-illegal-gun-sales,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Action from Social Media Giants to Stop Illegal Gun Sales, Protect New Mexico Families",2025-09-18,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 17, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called on the nation’s largest social media companies to take immediate steps to stop the sale of illegal firearms, curb youth violence, and protect the safety of children and families in New Mexico and across the country. Vasquez’s demand follows direct conversations with New Mexico law enforcement officers who raised serious concerns about the growing role of social media in fueling youth violence and the sale of illegal firearms to minors or other prohibited users.

In a letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel, and Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, Vasquez urged the companies to go beyond the bare minimum of simply following the letter of the law and go above and beyond to prevent bullying, violence, and the illegal sale of firearms to minors or other prohibited individuals.

“Our communities cannot wait any longer,” said Vasquez. “In New Mexico, we’ve seen the devastating consequences of what happens when children access illegal firearms online. No family should have to suffer the heartbreak of losing a child to preventable violence. Social media companies have a responsibility to do their part to keep kids safe by stopping illegal gun sales, stopping online bullying, and protecting our communities.”

In meetings with Vasquez this year, New Mexico law enforcement leaders repeatedly reported that guns purchased on social media platforms have contributed to gun-related violence. In March of this year, a mass shooting in Las Cruces claimed the lives of three teenagers. Of the four suspects charged, three were minors, and evidence suggests they were attempting to illegally sell firearms online.

In his letter, Vasquez pressed the CEOs on what their companies are doing to:

Prevent the illegal sale of stolen firearms.

Stop minors from purchasing firearms on their platforms.

Improve detection and reporting of bullying, harassment, and violent threats.

Strengthen partnerships with federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.

For the full text of the letter, click here.

Vasquez remains committed to improving public safety through his work in Congress, including his bipartisan No More Narcos Act to protect students from cartels and his bipartisan Stop COYOTES Act to go after human traffickers and drug smugglers.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-bipartisan-effort-ban-stock-trading-congress,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Effort to Ban Stock Trading in Congress,2025-09-16,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) reaffirmed his commitment to public service and transparency by co-sponsoring the bipartisan Restore Trust in Congress Act, a bill to ban members of Congress from profiting from their positions of power by owning or trading stocks.

“Members of Congress should serve the people, not their own stock portfolios,” said Vasquez. “I didn’t come to Congress to get rich, and I don’t think anyone should. This legislation is about restoring trust in our institutions and ensuring that lawmakers remain focused on the job they are entrusted to do.”

Numerous bills to ban stock trading in Congress have been proposed this year, but this act goes further than most, prohibiting Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependents from both trading and owning individual stocks.

The Restore Trust in Congress Act builds on Rep. Vasquez’s strong record of fighting for transparency and accountability in Washington D.C. Earlier this year, he championed the TRUST in Congress Act, a bipartisan measure to increase public confidence in government by holding members of Congress to higher ethical standards and forcing them to place specified investments into a qualified blind trust. Together, these efforts reflect his commitment to restoring integrity in public service and ensuring elected officials put the people they serve ahead of personal gain.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-border-democrats-call-transparency-around-dhs-spending-150b-blank,"Vasquez, Border Democrats Call for Transparency Around DHS Spending $150B “Blank Check”",2025-09-12,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 12, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a group of Members representing border states demanding transparency and accountability in how the Department of Homeland Security will spend more than $150 billion taxpayer dollars newly allocated under H.R. 1.

In a letter sent to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the Members called for a meeting and outlined detailed spending recommendations to ensure DHS allocates funds in a manner that prioritizes public safety, efficiency, and American values. The lawmakers stressed the need for smart investments — such as technology to fight illegal activity and cartels’ use of drones at the border, better training and mental health support for agents, and oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse — rather than ineffective, wasteful policies.

“No one knows the border better than the Members who represent it and live in these communities,” said Vasquez. “DHS was just handed a massive blank check, and we owe it to American taxpayers to provide accountability and transparency. Secretary Noem must explain to the American people how this massive spending will be used and justify every dollar that is spent.”

“Our border communities deserve real solutions that keep them safe and strengthen trust,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25). “Instead of a $150 billion blank check, we need transparency, oversight, and targeted investments that fight illegal activity, support our agents, and prevent waste and abuse of taxpayer dollars.”

“Taxpayer dollars need to be spent responsibly and transparently – for Homeland Security, that means stopping drugs from crossing the border, making the most of advanced technology, and holding violent criminals accountable,” said Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet(MI-08). “When we spend $150 billion of their dollars on such important priorities, our constituents need to know that their money is being spent effectively and efficiently.”

“Transparency is essential to public trust and cracking down on waste, fraud, and abuse is a core constitutional responsibility for us in Congress,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02). “The people of New Hampshire need to know that $150 billion in taxpayer dollars will be spent lawfully and effectively, and I will not rest until we get a full and transparent justification for every taxpayer dollar.”

The letter’s recommendations include:

Invest in smart border technology, including existing physical barriers in high population areas, autonomous surveillance towers, aerial systems, tunnel detection, and counter-drone systems..

Prioritize enforcement against serious criminals, rather than mass deportations and detaining individuals who pose no threat to public safety .

Expand staffing, training, and services for USBP agents, including communications capabilities, search-and-rescue tools, and mental health support.

Increase ICE transparency, ensuring that no American citizens are detained, implementing meaningful agent identification standards, and improving public reporting and information related to individuals in custody.

Improve detention resources and standards, including sufficient funding for basic services for health care, sanitary conditions, and programs to ensure a legal and fair process.

Strengthen infrastructure at ports of entry, scanning 100% of cargo entering the US, and combatting drug cartels and trafficking.

​​The Members emphasized that with some DHS agencies seeing their budgets nearly triple under this new funding, taxpayers deserve to know how every dollar will be spent.

For the full text of the letter, click here.

Rep. Vasquez has been a strong advocate for accountability in border spending and immigration enforcement. With his Humane Accountability Act and leading role in the New Dem Immigration & Border Security Framework, he is fighting for a balanced, humane approach to border security and immigration policy that keeps communities safe while upholding the dignity of all people.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-fights-reverse-devastating-republican-health-care-cuts,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Fights to Reverse Devastating Republican Health Care Cuts,2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 11, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored H.R. 4849, the Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act, to reverse Republicans’ devastating health care cuts and permanently extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits.

The bill repeals harmful provisions in the Republican tax bill that slash Medicaid coverage for 110,000 New Mexicans, cut provider payments, and reduce health care eligibility for working families. It also permanently extends the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits — ensuring working families continue to have access to affordable health care coverage.

“For many folks in New Mexico, reversing these Republican cuts to health care coverage is literally a matter of life or death,” said Vasquez. “For seniors in Socorro, farmworkers in Deming, and families in Hobbs, losing access to health care coverage means going without life-saving medicine, critical checkups, or treatment when it matters most. With this bill, I am fighting to protect working families across New Mexico by reversing these harmful cuts, ensuring no one has to choose between seeing their doctor or putting food on the table.”

Because of the Republican tax bill passed earlier this summer, an estimated 38,000 people in New Mexico’s second district will lose Medicaid coverage. Additionally, the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits will more than double premiums for over 18,000 residents of the district who purchase insurance through ACA marketplaces. 17,000 people in the district rely on these credits to afford coverage, but the Republican tax law made them set to expire at the end of this year — driving up out-of-pocket premium costs by more than 200%, or about $700 annually. This will be catastrophic for families already struggling to make ends meet.

Vasquez introduced the bill as a direct response to concerns he heard from constituents, doctors, and providers across Southern New Mexico. In June, Vasquez visited Socorro General Hospital, where staff warned that the Republican tax law threatens access to care for expectant mothers. In August, he visited Carlsbad Medical Center and heard from hospital leadership about how the tax law will limit access to care, raise insurance premiums, and worsen the provider shortage in the state. Both hospitals are directly at risk of closing because of the harmful health care provisions in the Republican tax law.

“These subsidies are critical to keeping New Mexicans insured,” said BeWell, New Mexico’s Health Insurance Marketplace Chief Executive Officer Bruce Gilbert. “Health care coverage is an essential part of a vibrant, active and healthy community. We know being able to access affordable and reliable insurance through BeWell, changes lives.”

Rep. Vasquez is committed to protecting access to affordable health care and rural hospital services for New Mexico families. During debate on the tax bill, he introduced an amendment to cap insulin at $35 for individuals with private insurance. The amendment was rejected by Republicans. He also cosponsored the Rural Physician Workforce Production Actto incentivize medical residents to train and practice in rural areas, and the CHIPP Act to permanently fund the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and expand coverage for children.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-pass-bill-enhance-law-and-order-public-safety,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Pass Bill to Enhance Law and Order, Public Safety",2025-09-11,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 11, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in support of the Stop Illegal Reentry Act, a bill to protect the rule of law and uphold the regular legal process for those convicted of crimes.

“Law and order is the foundation of a healthy society, and we have to have the right laws in place that allow us to all play by the same rules,” said Vasquez. “Anyone in this country who commits a crime should be held to the same standard, regardless of their immigration status. But our nation’s outdated immigration laws unfairly push out some of the hardest workers in our communities. That’s why I’m proposing immigration reform that creates more pathways to legal status in this country. It’s a solution that will allow us to boost our economy, keep our communities safe, and be the best version of America that we can be.”

Rep. Vasquez is committed to delivering the practical immigration solutions America needs to live up to its fullest potential and values. He recently introduced the Humane Accountability Act, a bill to mandate oversight and reporting for DHS detention and deportations, and the Strengthening Our Workforce Act, a bill to provide non-citizens working in critical sectors — including agriculture, health care, and emergency workers — a path to lawful permanent status.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-introduces-bill-help-protect-new-mexicans-natural-disasters,"Rep. Vasquez Introduces Bill to Help Protect New Mexicans from Natural Disasters, Establish Resiliency Office",2025-09-08,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 8, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Championing Local Efforts to Advance Resilience (CLEAR) Act, a bill to help communities better prepare for and recover from extreme weather and natural disasters.

The CLEAR Act invests $100 million annually over five years to help states, territories, and Tribes establish or expand resiliency offices and save lives. This push to bolster resiliency offices is critical for strengthening disaster mitigation, infrastructure protection, and climate adaptation planning. Modeled on successful state-level initiatives like the Colorado Resiliency Office, these programs also help communities anticipate future risks and coordinate recovery resources to build long-term resilience.

“Disasters like the recent flooding in Ruidoso and Salt and South Fork fires are the new normal, and New Mexicans know firsthand how wildfires, drought, and floods can devastate lives in an instant,” said Vasquez. “As the climate changes and becomes more extreme, our communities need better tools to fight back and protect working families. We must act now to ensure New Mexico is prepared for the future.”

The CLEAR Act builds on Vasquez’s record of delivering disaster response and preparedness tools for New Mexicans. Earlier this year, Rep. Vasquez led a successful push to pass the bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025, legislation to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfire. The bill was signed into law by President Trump in June 2025.

Vasquez has pushed to improve disaster prevention and response at both the federal and local level, including:

Working to improve Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and get funding to New Mexican communities in need, including sending a letter to DHS Secretary Noem to reverse a policy that requires personal approval on all projects over $100,000 — a policy that delayed critical aid after summer flooding in Ruidoso in 2025.

Supporting robust funding for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, which supports critical support for wildfire, flooding and disaster response.

Securing $137 million in federal investments for wildfire recovery and flood mitigation in Southern New Mexico.

Sponsoring the Fix Our Forests Act, legislation to restore forest health, increase resiliency to catastrophic wildfires, and protect New Mexican communities.

Championing increased coordination between local leaders and emergency managers to ensure rural and Tribal communities are not left behind in response and mitigation efforts.

Passing the Water Resources Development Act of 2024, which included multiple stormwater management projects across New Mexico, including a master stormwater management plan in Doña Ana and Otero Counties and authorization for a new dam in Hatch that would help prevent disasters like the major flood the community experienced in 2006.

Extreme weather has already cost the U.S. more than $2.7 trillion in damages since 1980, and FEMA estimates that every $1 spent on hazard mitigation saves $6 in future costs. By helping states and Tribes establish dedicated resiliency offices, the CLEAR Act ensures New Mexico and communities nationwide have the resources to withstand disasters and recover stronger.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-champions-construction-trade-training-tackle-housing-affordability,Rep. Vasquez Champions Construction Trade Training to Tackle Housing Affordability Crisis,2025-09-05,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 5, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) co-sponsored the bipartisan CONSTRUCTS Act, a bill to expand workforce training opportunities for New Mexicans in residential construction to ultimately bring down the cost of housing.

“New Mexicans are eager to work hard and build better futures for themselves and their families,” said Vasquez. “The work training programs expanded by this bill will open pathways to prosperity for more New Mexicans, and I will continue to support commonsense housing solutions to ensure every New Mexican can afford a place to call home.”

This bill would amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to establish a grant program supporting residential construction education and certification programs at community colleges, junior colleges, and trade schools — opening up pathways to good-paying jobs for more New Mexicans. Construction trades included under these grants include carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and other in-demand fields.

Enhancing New Mexico’s stock of affordable housing remains a top priority for Rep. Vasquez. He recently introduced legislation to crack down on greedy, out-of-state landlords and protect mobile home residents from predatory price increases with his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act.

This also builds on the Congressman’s ongoing work to make housing accessible for every New Mexican through the HOME Act, which addresses the housing crisis by allowing the HUD Secretary to prohibit sales or rentals at unjustified and inflated prices when appropriate, the Bipartisan Homeownership Opportunity Act, which offers tax credits to first time homebuyers afford their downpayment and to builders for constructing starter homes, and the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act, which provides a 20% tax credit to incentivize the conversion of empty commercial real estate into housing units.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-demands-passage-tribal-water-settlements-zuni-acoma-laguna-and,"Rep. Vasquez Demands Passage of Tribal Water Settlements for Zuni, Acoma, Laguna, and Other Communities in New Mexico",2025-09-05,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 4, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) demanded the passage of pending Indian water settlements for Zuni, Acoma, and Laguna Pueblo along with other Tribal communities in New Mexico. In a bipartisan, bicameral letter to leadership and committees, Rep. Vasquez proposed extending Customs and Border Protection user fees through 2034 to pay for the cost of the settlements — offering a solution for the ongoing pay-for issues which have blocked consideration of these Indian water settlements in the House.

“It’s time for Congress to live up to the promises it has made to Tribal communities across this country and make sure these water settlements are reached as soon as possible,” said Vasquez. “With the bipartisan, commonsense solutions proposed in this letter, Tribal communities in New Mexico can have greater certainty in their access to the water resources they deserve, while saving American taxpayers millions of dollars in the process.”

“Completion of these settlements will save taxpayers millions of dollars, provide water access and certainty to Tribal and non-Tribal water users across the West, avoid years of protracted and costly litigation, and support the United States’ trust responsibility to Tribes,” lawmakers stated in the letter.

Rep. Vasquez continues to fight for reforms in Congress to ensure the federal government is upholding its obligation to ensure Tribal nations have what they need to thrive across the United States. This work builds on Rep. Vasquez’s Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act, and Navajo Nation Rio San José Stream System Water Rights Settlement Act — all of which sought to pass Tribal water settlements for communities in New Mexico.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:10:29Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-chc-members-demand-dhs-end-illegal-restrictions-oversight,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez, CHC Members Demand DHS End Illegal Restrictions on Oversight of Detention Centers",2025-09-02,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) in demanding that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) immediately end its illegal restrictions on Members of Congress conducting oversight of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities.

In a letter sent to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the Members made clear that DHS’s new processes and protocols — which require seven days’ notice and other arbitrary restrictions — violate federal law and keep Congress from performing its legal oversight duties. Under this administration, Members have even been made to jump through unnecessary and illegal hoops or denied entry to certain ICE detention facilities entirely.

“These facilities are funded by billions of taxpayer dollars and exhibit persistent issues related to health and safety, human rights, and waste, fraud, and abuse. It is imperative that Members conduct timely oversight to determine whether public funds are being spent as mandated by Congress and ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals who are detained by the government,” said the Members.

The letter comes amid mounting reports of dangerous and inhumane conditions in ICE facilities, from insufficient food and crumbling walls at Delaney Hall in New Jersey to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions at facilities in Florida and New York. Despite billions of taxpayer funds spent on detention contracts, these problems persist nationwide, raising serious concerns.

The letter urges DHS to immediately stop any actions by its personnel or contractors that delay or deny congressional visits, saying timely oversight is essential to ensure those in detention are treated with dignity and taxpayer dollars are spent as intended.

For full text of the letter, click here.

Rep. Vasquez has been a strong advocate for accountability in immigration enforcement and the protection of immigrant families in New Mexico. With his Humane Accountability Act and leading role in the New Dem Immigration & Border Security Framework, he is fighting for a balanced, humane approach to border security and immigration policy that keeps communities safe while upholding the dignity of all people.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-introduces-bill-strengthen-americas-labor-force-and-support,Rep. Vasquez Introduces Bill to Strengthen America’s Labor Force and Support Workers,2025-09-02,2025,2025-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 2, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) pushed to strengthen America’s labor force and support workers by introducing the Strengthening Our Workforce Act. The bill provides non-citizens working in critical sectors — including agriculture, health care, and emergency workers — a path to lawful permanent status, bringing much-needed stability for workers who make up the backbone of the American economy.

“People who work hard, follow the rules, and play a vital role in our economy should never be forced to live in the shadows or in fear of mass deportation,” said Vasquez. “These individuals do right by us — contributing to the fabric of our communities and putting in long hours to keep our families fed, loved ones cared for, and economy running. It’s time we do right by them by offering the dignified pathway to legal status that they deserve and American businesses need. This is about humanity, fairness, and the long-term strength of our economy.”

The Strengthening Our Workforce Act provides a two-year conditional status for non-citizens who meet strict criteria and work in critical industries such as health care, energy, agriculture, emergency response, education, hospitality, construction, home health care, and childcare.

To receive conditional lawful permanent residency status, workers must:

Work in a critical industry and covered profession.

Have been physically present in the United States as of January 1, 2024.

Remain physically present in the United States for the duration of conditional status.

Have been employed in a covered profession for at least 100 days before applying.

Maintain 100 days of annual employment in a covered profession for 2 consecutive years.

Pay a fine and be in good legal standing.

Workers who meet these strict criteria and complete two-year conditional status then qualify for lawful permanent residency.

Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52), Rep. Nydia Velazquez (NY-07), Rep. Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Rep. Angie Craig (MN-02) are bill co-sponsors.

“Right now, Trump is implementing an out of control anti-immigrant crackdown. Families are scared of being torn apart. People who have spent decades living and working in this country are afraid to drop their kids off at school, show up to their jobs, and go about their lives. It’s unacceptable,” said Rep. Vargas. “As the proud son of Mexican immigrants, I know that immigrants make our country stronger. It’s past time to fix our broken immigration system and create better pathways to citizenship. I’m proud to help introduce this legislation to bring us closer to an immigration system that centers humanity, dignity, and justice.”

“Immigrant workers are a key part of New Mexico’s economy, and they deserve recognition for their essential role in keeping our state and country running. For years, progress on immigration reform has been delayed, leaving workers without real solutions. Congressman Vasquez’s Strengthening Our Workforce Act offers critical workers a fair pathway to permanent residency. At Somos Un Pueblo Unido, we will continue championing common-sense policies that welcome and integrate immigrants, not the fear-driven tactics designed to tear our communities apart”, said Marcela Díaz, Executive Director of Somos Un Pueblo Unido.

“The Strengthening Our Workforce Act adds to the growing bipartisan Congressional momentum to end the mass deportation efforts that are causing labor shortages and loss of consumer spending by the immigrant community, both of which are pushing revenue down for small businesses,” said Frank Knapp Jr, managing director of the Secure Growth Initiative, a national small business coalition representing over 100,000 small business voices. “We are proud to support Congressman Vasquez’s legislation and other bills that address the concerns of our coalition.”

“It's encouraging to see lawmakers offering a solution to the significant challenges the current immigration enforcement policies are creating for our nation’s small businesses,” said David Chase, Vice President of the Small Business Majority, which provides leadership for the national small business coalition Secure Growth Initiative. “Immigrants are a vital and irreplaceable component of America's small business ecosystem, and our nation's small firms will have far more opportunities to succeed when undocumented people are able to earn permanent legal status as allowed by the Strengthening Our Workforce Act.”

“It’s time for Congress to protect our economy and small businesses as the Strengthening Our Workforce Act would do,” said Matt Foster, Vice President of the SC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a founding member of the Secure Growth Initiative national small business coalition. “Undocumented immigrants provide essential labor, which small businesses across the country will not be able to replace. Without these individuals, our small businesses would suffer.”

Rep. Vasquez is leading the charge for immigration and economic reforms that are critical for Southern New Mexico and the country. This legislation builds on the New Dem Immigration & Border Security Framework he is leading in Congress which offers a balanced, humane, and comprehensive approach to border security and immigration policy to keep communities safe while upholding the dignity of all people. He also reintroduced his No More Narcos Act and the Stop COYOTES Act, a pair of bipartisan bills to combat cartels and smuggling at the southern border, and his Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act to develop a national strategy for strengthening economies along the U.S.-Mexico border.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:07:37Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-condemns-usdas-monumental-attack-public-forests-vows-fight-protect,"Rep. Vasquez Condemns USDA’s Monumental Attack on Public Forests, Vows to Fight to Protect Public Lands",2025-08-27,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 27, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) condemned the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) latest efforts to rescind the 2001 Roadless Rule as an attack on America’s public lands.

“The Roadless Rule provides Americans with unique experiences in our nation’s wildest lands, where wildlife thrives and the backcountry meets wilderness. The Roadless Rule should be kept intact to protect special places like the Gila and Tongass National Forests — places that deserve to be left wild for the next generation,” said Vasquez. “I’ll do everything I can to follow the bipartisan conservation legacy of those who have conserved these places and fight attempts to develop our nation’s wildest lands and rivers.”

On August 27, the USDA announced it had taken a step toward rescinding the 2001 Roadless Rule by opening a public comment period. The proposed rollback of the 2001 Roadless Rule jeopardizes nearly 58 million acres of undeveloped backcountry forestland managed by the U.S. Forest Service, comprising around a third of the territory in our national forest system.

For nearly 25 years, the Roadless Rule has protected our public land by preventing industrial logging, road construction, and other development. This rule has preserved thousands of miles of trails and other outdoor recreation access, keeping vital habitats intact, and ensuring that all Americans have clean water. After the USDA signaled its intent to repeal this rule in June, Vasquez championed H.R. 3930, the Roadless Area Conservation Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-unveils-affordability-agenda-albuquerque,Rep. Vasquez Unveils Affordability Agenda in Albuquerque,2025-08-27,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"August 27, 2025

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Earlier this month, following a roundtable with community leaders, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) unveiled his Affordability Agenda, a comprehensive set of policy solutions to address the affordability crisis facing hardworking New Mexicans. This Affordability Agenda comes as the cost of housing, food, health care, and utilities continue to soar under the Trump Administration — trends only exacerbated by the Republican tax law.

“It’s getting harder and harder to make ends meet every month, and folks are increasingly facing really difficult choices, like whether to pay their utility bill or refill their child’s prescription,” said Vasquez, “My affordability agenda puts forward real policy solutions that bring down the cost of food housing, health care, and utilities for New Mexicans.”

Policy measures in Rep. Vasquez’s Affordability Agenda include:

Lower Taxes:

Offsetting rising prices and offering a fully refundable 10% tax credit to households making under $100,000 in his Tax Relief from Tariffs and High Costs Act

Creating tax policy that supports the middle class and workers, like his Boost the Middle Class Act to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit by 10% and index it to inflation

Supporting efforts like the TIPS Act to make “no tax on tips” permanent

Expanding access to affordable childcare and home health care by allowing caregivers to receive up to a $5,000 tax credit each year for expenses associated with their caregiving services in the Credit For Caring Act

Food:

Fixing SNAP — not cutting it — with commonsense reforms like the Hot Foods Act to allow families to buy ready-to-eat meals

Supporting federal funding for the Emergency Food Assistance Program, which helps farmers and families by allowing commodities to be sent directly from farmers to food banks

Working with state and local partners to protect access to free school lunch programs and expand food assistance programs that serve seniors and Tribal communities

Working to ensure that efforts to bring down costs for everyday goods also make their way to rural communities in his Combatting Rural Inflation Act

Housing:

Cracking down on predatory out-of-state investors to keep housing costs low in New Mexico with his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act

Stopping unfair rent increases by supporting the HOME Act

Encouraging the conversion of empty commercial real estate into housing units through the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act

Health Care:

Defending Medicaid coverage for the 38,000 New Mexicans in the district who rely on it for the care they need

Urging the administration to work across the aisle to lower drug costs and leave Medicare’s ability to negotiate lower drug prices in place

Capping insulin prices at $35/month for individuals with private insurance

Utilities:

Protecting clean energy investments that lower long-term utility bill costs

Fighting for the highest possible funding for programs like LIHEAP which help vulnerable households cover their energy bills

The Affordability Agenda was delivered alongside representatives from organizations on the frontline of New Mexico’s affordability crisis, including Roadrunner Food Bank, Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless, Presbyterian Medical Services, Be Well NM, Rio Grande Food Bank, and more. Rep. Vasquez is working as a partner with those in the community to find practical solutions for the affordability challenges facing New Mexico.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-tularosa-basin-downwinders-consortium-call-reca-expansion-fraud,"Vasquez, Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium Call for RECA Expansion, Fraud Prevention",2025-08-27,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 20, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium to discuss the recent expansion of RECA benefits to New Mexico claimants, best practices for preventing bad actors’ attempts to defraud RECA claimants, and the Congressman’s commitment to helping New Mexico’s Downwinder community achieve its ongoing advocacy goals.

For 80 years, generations of Downwinders suffered from the long term effects of the Trinity Test without help or recognition from the government. The recent expansion of RECA to Downwinders and post-1971 uranium miners in New Mexico is an important step towards delivering justice and support for New Mexican families harmed by the Trinity Test, but work remains to be done.

“For too long, New Mexico’s Downwinders and uranium miners were ignored by their own government, left without justice or recognition. Finally, after decades of advocacy on the part of those in this room today, New Mexican communities harmed by the Trinity Test are finally getting the financial support they deserve,” said Vasquez, “But the fight isn’t over. I’ll keep working to ensure all beneficiaries receive their due, and we won’t stop advocating until all victims of nuclear testing, research, and development can access the support and health care they deserve, no matter where they call home.”

Rep. Vasquez’s recent actions to support RECA and Downwinders include:

Fighting for commemorative plaques to acknowledge the impacts of the Trinity Test and Downwinders in the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

Sending a letter to the Department of Justice calling on the department to provide assistance to newly eligible RECA claimants and to do more to protect claimants from scams and fraud

Tina Cordova, co-founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium, praised Rep. Vasquez and the other members of New Mexico’s congressional delegation for their tireless efforts to expand RECA benefits to New Mexico’s claimants, noting these benefits “would have never passed without our five members of Congress from New Mexico.” She added, “I trust Gabe. I know he’s looking out for us.”

During the meeting, advocates and community leaders also called for an extension of the deadline for New Mexico Downwinders to claim their RECA benefits, which is currently set at two years, and RECA to be expanded to Guam, Colorado, Montana, Arizona, and Nevada. Advocates also noted the need for health care coverage for New Mexico’s Downwinders. Tina Cordova said this need for health care coverage is compounded by the Medicaid cuts recently passed as part of the Republican tax law, adding “Without Medicaid, a lot of people in New Mexico who are Downwinders will just die in the streets.”

Rep. Vasquez has played an integral role in advancing legislation to strengthen and expand RECA during his time in Congress, and he will continue to fight for justice for Downwinders, Uranium miners, and others who have suffered from radiation exposure.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-champions-economic-development-small-businesses-and-innovation,"Rep. Vasquez Champions Economic Development, Small Businesses, and Innovation During Weeklong District Tour",2025-08-26,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On Friday, August 22, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) wrapped a weeklong tour visiting with local leaders, small businesses, scientists, and community advocates across central New Mexico.

“Last week in New Mexico, I traveled to many diverse communities in my district and spoke with constituents about the hard truths and challenges our families are facing today,” said Vasquez. “From young people in recovery, to seniors pursuing work, to small business owners and pioneering researchers, it’s clear New Mexicans are eager to have stability and opportunity to move their lives forward. The chaos and uncertainty being driven by Washington politics isn’t helping anyone. I’m eager to get back to work and commonsense governing.”

Vasquez began his weeklong tour on Monday, August 18 with a visit to the Serenity Mesa Youth Addiction Treatment Center, where he heard directly from providers and families who stressed the urgent need to expand access to compassionate, medically supervised treatment for young people in crisis.

The following day on Tuesday, August 19, Vasquez visited the Very Large Array (VLA) radio astronomy observatory, where he learned about New Mexico’s leading role in driving global scientific discoveries.

On Wednesday, August 20, Vasquez met with Goodwill Industries of New Mexico to address the federal funding freeze threatening the Senior Community Service Employment Program, which provides low-income seniors with community-based employment. Vasquez emphasized that seniors who are eager to work to support themselves should be able to access this program to stay active in the workforce, and he pledged to continue pressing the Department of Labor to release program funds.

On Thursday, August 21, Vasquez visited the Barelas Community Kitchen, a hub where aspiring food entrepreneurs and culinary students bring their skills to life and learn how to operate profitable businesses. Later that day, the Congressman joined WESST and the Association of Women’s Business Centers to highlight the essential role of women-owned small businesses in growing New Mexico’s economy.

Rep. Vasquez ended the day on Thursday by visiting Sandia National Laboratories and hearing directly from Sandia Laboratories National Director Laura McGill about the cutting edge national security research underway in New Mexico.

Finally, on Friday, August 22, Vasquez joined local leaders in Los Lunas for a tour about economic development efforts underway in the community, meeting with Wall Colmonoy, a global manufacturing company launching an apprenticeship program with UNM-Valencia and local partners.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-leads-democratic-party-forward-new-commonsense-plan-immigration,Rep. Vasquez Leads Democratic Party Forward with New Commonsense Plan on Immigration and Border Security,2025-08-25,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 25, 2025, the New Democrat Coalition Immigration & Border Security Working Group, led by Chair Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), unveiled the New Dem Immigration & Border Security Framework — a new vision for the Democratic Party’s path forward on border security and immigration. With 115 members, the New Democrat Coalition is the largest ideological caucus in the Democratic party.

Through the Framework, New Dems propose a new blueprint to invest in smart border security, fix the outdated and broken immigration system to ensure fast, fair, and final enforcement, use commonsense reforms to grow the economy by growing the labor force, and expand legal avenues to citizenship for long-time residents living in legal limbo. This framework will guide Democratic and bipartisan legislation on immigration issues for years to come.

“As someone from a border community, I’ve seen firsthand how both parties have mishandled immigration for far too long,” said Working Group Chair Gabe Vasquez. “It’s time for change, and I’m proud to be leading the Democratic party forward with new commonsense policies to secure our borders, boost local economies, and expand legal pathways in a humane, cost-effective way. Democrats may not have had a plan on immigration, but that changes today.”

The Immigration & Border Security Framework includes several proposals distinct to prior frameworks, including —

Funding scanning technology to inspect 100% of cargo at U.S. ports of entry, supporting efforts to dismantle cartels and combat smuggling, providing resources for the removal of violent offenders, and ensuring DHS oversight with humane detention conditions.

Ensuring humane detention conditions and oversight of immigration enforcement to prioritize the detention and removal of individuals convicted of violent crimes.

Ensuring workforce visa programs protect American workers and their wages, creating a caregiver visa to expand access to child and elder care, safeguarding high-skilled worker and investor programs, and incentivizing research in emerging fields like Quantum and AI.

Establishing legal pathways for critical workers, legal residents, and those with U.S. citizen spousal or parental ties.

Supporting international efforts to dismantle cartels and combat drug and human trafficking across U.S. borders.

Upgrading ports of entry, modernizing immigration agencies and visa processing, and directing federal agencies to develop a national strategy to connect immigrants’ skills with local labor needs.

The document also outlines next steps to put the Framework into action, calling on lawmakers from across the political spectrum to put an end to partisan gridlock and finally enact meaningful legislation to help every American prosper with a modernized, pro-safety immigration system.

""As the Trump administration abuses the president's broad executive authority on immigration in ways that put politics ahead of public safety, it is encouraging to see Democrats step up with a serious plan for order at the border and well-managed immigration. The New Dem Immigration & Border Security Framework lays out that vision with clarity and purpose,"" said Sarah Pierce, Director of Social Policy at Third Way. ""By pairing practical solutions on border security and interior enforcement with strategies to strengthen the U.S. workforce and responsibly address legalization, the Framework underscores a commitment to the rule of law and the prosperity immigration brings to our nation.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-centers-rural-voices-and-priorities-during-visits-catron-cibola,"Rep. Vasquez Centers Rural Voices and Priorities During Visits in Catron, Cibola, and Socorro Counties",2025-08-20,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 19, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) launched a nearly 400-mile tour, visiting communities across the western part of his district to discuss the urgent needs facing rural New Mexico today. The Congressman made stops at Ramah Navajo Chapter, Fence Lake, and Quemado to discuss local residents’ and leaders’ top concerns, including funding for infrastructure, public safety, schools, and health care.

“Rural and Tribal communities in New Mexico shouldn’t have to fight year after year just to keep their schools open, their roads safe, and their emergency services running,” said Rep. Vasquez. “When Congress delays action on critical programs like Secure Rural Schools funding our kids, seniors, and public safety pay the price. I came to Congress to make sure rural voices are not an afterthought in Washington, and I’m demanding action now so these communities aren’t ignored and left behind.”

During the Congressman’s meeting with the Ramah Navajo Chapter, Tribal leadership flagged major difficulties securing federal funding from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Indian Education for essentials like road and facilities maintenance, education, and public safety staff and equipment.

“We have a dire funding need with our road maintenance department. We need it for emergency services and our school buses. We just never seem to get the funds that we are looking for,” said Martha Garcia, Ramah Navajo Chapter President and State Representative. She added, “Looking down the road with what is happening with Medicaid and SNAP funding, we have to do something for our communities.”

Gjermundson Jake, Ramah Navajo School Board Board of Trustees President, also flagged severe concerns about recent cuts Republicans made to public broadcasting funding, which he said the Ramah Navajo Chapter relies on to provide essential communication to the community via KTDB. “Not everybody has TV, not everybody has Internet,” he said. “We have grandpas and grandmas out there that use battery-powered radios to listen to what’s going on, and that’s how they get all their news. These cuts are concerning, especially for wildfires and emergency response information…in our local area we have local wildfires happening just right behind these mountains here.”

Rep. Vasquez then traveled to Fence Lake to meet with the Fence Lake Volunteer Fire Department, the Cibola County Sheriff, as well as other leaders from Cibola County focused on public safety and emergency management. During a roundtable conversation, local firefighters and EMS made it clear that communications and road maintenance were by far the biggest issues facing them as they work to keep their rural community healthy and safe.

“Our big issue is emergency services need good radios and communication, and as you can see we don’t have any cell service. These small communities that don’t have cell service really could lose lives because of telecommunication blackout areas,” said Kate Fletcher, County Manager for Cibola County. “If there is an emergency, I am very concerned that we are not up to par on our communications. The Secure Rural Schools funding also really affects this community because of our roads, which are critical for emergency response.”

Finally, Rep. Vasquez traveled to Quemado Schools, where he convened a roundtable with school and county officials from across Catron, Sierra, Grant, and Cibola counties (as well as Forest Service supervisors and state elected officials) to discuss the urgent need to reauthorize Secure Rural Schools funding to keep rural schools and roads afloat. Vasquez and State Representative Gail Armstrong highlighted the bipartisan need to reauthorize this program.

“The Secure Rural Schools fund is really to bring equity to communities who are surrounded by land that can’t benefit from property tax because it’s owned by everybody and not individuals,” said Kayli Ortiz, Principal of Reserve Schools. “The SRS is really fundamental for our kids to receive the services and resources that their counterparts in larger cities receive. We feel our kids deserve that. I am thinking of the individual kid in our school who needs the help of a reading interventionist, and what it would mean for them if that position is cut due to a lack of SRS funds.”

Congressman Vasquez is taking action to ensure that rural and Tribal communities are not left in the dust. His holistic approach focuses on making life better, safer, and more affordable for New Mexicans in rural communities, which in turn will benefit the whole state.

He opposed the Republican tax law (H.R. 1) which cuts Medicaid and food assistance and is already putting rural hospitals at risk of closing.

He is a cosponsor of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act, which would reauthorize this fund and allow rural schools to get the SRS payments they desperately need.

He introduced the ReConnecting Rural America Act, which would make the ReConnect Program permanent and offer grants to help facilitate broadband deployment in rural areas.

He is a cosponsor of the CARE Act, which would improve emergency medical services under the Medicare program by allowing EMS to respond to medical calls on site and reduce the need for lengthy hospital transports.

He introduced his bipartisan Combatting Rural Inflation Act to ensure that rural communities benefit from efforts to combat inflation and bring down costs.

He joined a bipartisan letter to the House Appropriations committee urging them to meet Congress’ trust responsibilities and support funding for Tribal programs in the 2026 government funding bill, including funding for health care, land management, education, and public safety.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-rebukes-administrations-effort-cut-funds-combating-drug-trafficking,Vasquez Rebukes Administration’s Effort to Cut Funds for Combating Drug Trafficking,2025-08-18,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last month, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) spoke out against the administration’s proposal to cut funding to the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program – which combats drug trafficking in critical high-trafficking regions of the United States – by 35%.

The High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program provides funding and resources to facilitate vital coordination between local, state, federal, and Tribal law enforcement agencies to combat fentanyl and drug trafficking. Cuts to this funding would reduce these essential coordination efforts, hindering law enforcement’s ability to combat drug trafficking at all levels of government. HIDTA supports drug task forces in 17 counties across New Mexico, and the state received over $9.5 million in HIDTA funding in 2024, providing critical resources to help law enforcement keep dangerous drugs off the street.

In a letter to leaders of the House Appropriations Committee signed by Rep. Vasquez and eight other Members of Congress, elected officials noted, “The Administration’s request to cut HIDTA funding by $102 million dollars has also received 67 letters of opposition and counting from police departments, sheriffs’ associations, police chiefs’ associations, associations of narcotics enforcers, and non-profits.”

“In my district, everyone knows a loved one, friend, or community member who has been impacted by the byproduct of drug trafficking,” said Vasquez. “Making sure our law enforcement officers have the tools they need to do their jobs is absolutely essential in the fight to keep our communities safe, and it’s unthinkable that an administration which claims to be focused on stopping crime and securing our borders would cut this essential funding.”

Earlier this year, Rep. Vasquez helped introduce the bipartisan Fight Fentanyl Act, which would reauthorize the HIDTA program at over $333 million a year through 2030, strengthening the program for years to come so law enforcement has the tools they need to protect communities from fentanyl.

Rep. Vasquez also collaborated with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in New Mexico, including the Sunland Park and Las Cruces Police Departments, to find solutions to reduce drug trafficking and drug crimes in the state, and he remains committed to implementing comprehensive reforms to stop the flow of fentanyl and drugs into the United States, including his No More Narcos Act and Stop COYOTES Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-stands-workers-champions-permanent-no-tax-tips-wage-hike-tipped,"Vasquez Stands with Workers, Champions Permanent No Tax on Tips & Wage Hike for Tipped Workers",2025-08-18,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) stood in solidarity with workers at Barelas Coffee House in Albuquerque, expressing his support for making “no tax on tips” permanent policy and increasing the minimum wage for tipped workers — both measures included in the TIPS Act he is spearheading.

“Tipped workers deserve to take home more of their hard-earned pay, but the current sham version of ‘no tax on tips’ isn’t going to cut it,” said Vasquez. “The reality is, under the law Republicans just passed, every worker will still pay taxes on tips and overtime, and they’ll see increased costs from rising health care premiums, food, and utility costs. New Mexico’s tipped workers help power local economies and the hospitality industry. They deserve better than this, and we’re working to fix this with the TIPS Act.”

At the event, Rep. Vasquez donned an apron and worked alongside tipped workers, taking orders and serving food. He also met with workers and advocates from One Fair Wage to hear their concerns about the impact the Republican tax law is having on their ability to make ends meet.

“This tax law was crafted by Republicans to fund permanent tax cuts for the wealthy, while temporary perks like ‘no tax on tips’ and ‘no tax on overtime’ were just sweeteners to sell the deal to working Americans. But as you can see today, workers aren’t fooled — they see this for the bad deal it really is,” said Vasquez. “That’s why I am standing with workers in their fight for the permanent, meaning solutions offered by the TIPS Act.”

Of note, Rep Vasquez flagged the following shortcomings of the current version of “no tax on tips” under the Republican tax law:

Workers will still pay taxes on tips and overtime every single month.

More than one in three tipped workers — and two thirds of restaurant workers — already pay $0 in federal income tax based on their tax bracket, so they will feel no benefit.

The Republican versions of “no tax on tips” and “no tax on overtime” expire at the end of 2028 — meaning the select workers who benefit will only benefit four times: once a year when they file annual federal taxes for 2025 through 2028.

Paycheck-to-paycheck, tipped workers who are struggling to get by will feel poorer overall, as their pay flatlines and the cost of other things — like health care, utility bills, and food — skyrocket because of H.R. 1.

Rep. Vasquez is a cosponsor of H.R. 1314, the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Act, to permanently eliminate federal income taxes on tips and end the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers. Under current law, tipped workers in New Mexico earn a subminimum wage of just $2.13/hour before tips — putting them well below the poverty line, despite working some of our communities’ most essential roles.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-proposes-solution-address-housing-affordability-crisis-and-keep-nm,Rep. Vasquez Proposes Solution to Address Housing Affordability Crisis and Keep NM Families in their Homes,2025-08-12,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 12, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) worked to address the housing affordability crisis by introducing his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act. The bill would put investors who purchase over 2,500 mobile homes or pads under review to ensure they are not engaging in price gouging or failing to provide basic utilities to residents.

“One in six homes in New Mexico are mobile homes, and we are in the midst of a housing affordability crisis,” said Vasquez. “I refuse to sit by and let bad actors profit off our hard working community members. Buying massive numbers of homes and selling or renting them for predatory prices isn’t a smart investment strategy — it’s exploitation.”

“Access to safe, affordable housing with reliable utilities like water and electricity is a basic necessity and a key driver of health,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), co-lead on the bill. “That is why I am proud to co-lead the Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act with Rep. Vasquez, which improves oversight by requiring greater transparency and regulatory review of large purchases of mobile homes and pads. This helps prevent price gouging and ensures residents maintain access to essential services that directly impact their well-being.”

This bill came out of conversations with local leaders and constituents who flagged that predatory pricing practices for manufactured and mobile homes were displacing hard working families from their longtime homes and communities. During a recent meeting on affordable housing with Rep. Vasquez in Alamogordo, residents cited examples of landlords failing to provide basic utilities — like natural gas and running water — for months on end.

“Manufactured housing is one of the last remaining pathways to stable, affordable housing for many low-income families in New Mexico. When corporate investors drive up rents or cut services, they push our neighbors closer to homelessness,” said Nicole Martinez, Executive Director of Mesilla Valley Community of Hope. “We support this legislation because it puts vulnerable residents first and prioritizes housing as a human right.”

""Predatory investors often raise lot rents, reduce services, or threaten the stability of entire mobile/manufactured home communities — leaving working families, seniors, and people on fixed incomes with few options,” said Joanne DeMichele, President of the Land of Enchantment Manufactured Home Owners Alliance. “Congressman Vasquez’s bill requiring oversight and transparency in these transactions is a critical step toward accountability, helping residents and regulators track and challenge abusive practices in an industry that has operated in the shadows for too long.”

“When pad rent jumps by $150 a month – about a 25 percent increase, as we’ve seen across Albuquerque – our clients can’t just hitch up and leave. Moving a single-wide here costs roughly $6,000, a price tag that forces seniors and working families to choose between medicine, food, and the ground beneath their homes,"" said Sergio Leanos, Chief Housing Officer of Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico. ""Representative Vasquez’s bill shines a light on these predatory practices and gives HUD the tools to act.”

“Affordability is top of mind for the 22 million Americans who live in mobile/manufactured homes. Families are struggling to make ends meet,” said Dave Anderson of the National Manufactured Home Owners Association. “We thank Rep. Vasquez for introducing the Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act to protect people, especially those who own their homes but rent the land underneath, from predatory housing companies who are more focused on maximizing profit than working families being able to stay in their homes.”

“Mobile Home Communities play a vital role in providing affordable housing for thousands of low-income families and seniors in New Mexico. Yet, residents face increasing threats from rising rents, exploitative practices, and inadequate legal protections,” said Maria Griego, Economic Equity Director at the NM Center on Law and Poverty. “By demanding transparency and accountability, Representative Vasquez is standing up for working families who deserve stability, fairness, and dignity in their housing.”

“New Mexico Appleseed believes every family deserves a safe, affordable place to live. Ensuring HUD investigates investor practices in mobile home communities is a vital step toward exposing hidden patterns of rent hikes and utility cuts that fuel housing instability for thousands of New Mexicans, especially children and low‑income families,” said Jenny Ramo, Executive Director of NM Appleseed.

“As a resident of a mobile home park in New Mexico that experienced a natural gas outage for six months in 2024, I support Representative Gabe Vasquez’s Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act. Residents of this park, like many other residents of manufactured homes across the country, are elderly and include veterans and disabled folks,” said Florence Dean, a resident of a mobile home park in Alamogordo. “By the time repairs were made in December, the space heaters we used were barely able to keep our mobile homes livable, and our annual rent increased by 10% for 2025. The horror stories are nationwide. Rep. Vasquez’s Keep Homes Affordable Act recognizes this very real problem that exacerbates the nationwide dearth of affordable housing. The very large segment of people living in manufactured homes need help.”

Despite the name, mobile homes are not a transitory form of housing for many New Mexicans. Mobile homes and manufactured housing provide permanent, safe homes for many in New Mexico and should be protected from out of state investors who do not care about residents’ wellbeing.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-funding-cuts-carlsbad-caverns-hurt-jobs-tourism-and-tradition,"Vasquez: Funding Cuts to Carlsbad Caverns Hurt Jobs, Tourism, and Tradition",2025-08-11,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"CARLSBAD, N.M. – Last week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined leaders from Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the neighboring Guadalupe Mountains National Park to discuss the ongoing staffing and operational disruptions caused by the shortsighted DOGE budget cuts.

The budget cuts — which included laying off seasonal workers and offering buyouts to permanent workers — and the hiring freeze have led to reduced cave-tour offerings, scaled back visitor center hours, diminished ranger-led programming, and less visitors. These changes have hit the community hard, threatening the local economy that largely depends on outdoor tourism.

When budget cuts affect staff and services at Carlsbad Caverns, it’s not just a loss for visitors — it’s a loss for every New Mexican whose livelihood depends on the tourism and jobs these lands sustain. Rep. Vasquez will continue fighting to restore the resources our parks need so families can keep working, visitors can keep exploring, and future generations can keep traditions alive.

Vasquez, a strong advocate for New Mexico’s public lands and the founder of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, has repeatedly opposed proposals to sell off public lands and instead championed efforts to keep public lands in public hands and bolster the outdoor economy in Southern New Mexico.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-stands-energy-workers-hobbs-calls-put-workers-health-first,"Vasquez Stands With Energy Workers in Hobbs, Calls to Put Workers’ Health First",2025-08-10,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"HOBBS, N.M. – On August 7, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined members of Somos Un Pueblo Unido, a statewide organization dedicated to promoting racial and worker justice, to rally support for his Energy Workers Health Improvement and Compensation Fund Act. The bill requires the largest oil and gas companies to invest a fair share of their profits back into the workers who keep the nation’s energy economy running.

“New Mexico’s energy economy is powered not by its millionaire CEOs, but by its workers,” said Vasquez. “Every day, these workers face dangerous, strenuous conditions to power our communities. This legislation ensures big oil and gas companies don’t turn their backs on the very people who make their success possible.”

At least 30 members of Somos un Pueblo Unido attended the gathering, including several who shared personal testimonials about the toll unsafe job conditions and insufficient health coverage have taken on oil and gas workers and their families.

The Energy Workers Health Improvement and Compensation Fund Act would:

Require large oil and gas companies to contribute annually to a dedicated fund in an amount equal to the total compensation of their 10 highest-paid executives.

Reimburse eligible workers and their families for out-of-pocket medical costs linked to asthma, heat-related illness, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases caused by exposure to methane, particulate matter, and smog.

Establish a federal commission — including labor and immigrant advocates and energy workers from six states — to monitor health outcomes, ensure transparency, and hold companies and the federal government accountable for worker protections.

Vasquez underscored the urgent need for the legislation, noting that immigrant and Latino workers in the Permian Basin often face the harshest conditions, with little recourse when companies cut corners on safety.

""Son muy pocas las clínicas que hay en Hobbs. Tengo amigas que trabajan en el aceite y no tienen ninguna cobertura médica. Estas amigas han tenido que viajar hasta Santa Fe para recibir anticonceptivos, y muchas mujeres aquí en Hobbs que trabajan en el aceite y no pueden conseguir servicios comprensivos de salud de la mujer,” said Natalie Smith, Hobbs resident.

“New Mexico relies heavily on oil and gas revenues, but lawmakers often ignore the grave cost to frontline communities and industry workers,” said Eduviges Hernandez, Community Organizer for Somos Un Pueblo Unido in Lea County. “Immigrant families in the Permian Basin are disproportionately impacted by inadequate enforcement of health and safety standards, long hours, and extreme work conditions. That’s why they are organizing and demanding adequate compensation, safer and better jobs, and more public investments in their families and communities. We are greatly encouraged by Congressman Vasquez’s willingness to listen to and stand up for these essential workers, not just industry owners.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-hears-constituents-about-harm-snap-cuts-new-mexicos-kids-and,Rep. Vasquez Hears from Constituents About Harm of SNAP Cuts on New Mexico’s Kids and Seniors,2025-08-08,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Carlsbad, N.M. – On August 8, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) helped pack meals for seniors at Alejandro Ruiz Senior Center, which is funded by Southeast NM Community Action Corp (SNMCAC) in Carlsbad. After lunch, Rep. Vasquez met with leaders from SNMCAC and other local nonprofits, who expressed concern about how federal funding freezes and SNAP cuts are harming vulnerable populations in Southern New Mexico.

In early July, Republicans chose to slash $180 billion from SNAP benefits under their new tax law – the biggest cut to food assistance in American history – in order to give massive tax breaks to the wealthy. As a result, over 175,000 New Mexicans could lose the ability to afford the groceries they need to feed themselves and their families. The majority of people receiving SNAP are children, seniors, and people with disabilities. In addition to providing services for seniors, SNMCAC also operates Head Start and early childhood programs.

“It just seems that seniors and children are the ones getting pushed onto the back burner, and they’re the most vulnerable populations that we have. Children of course have no choice. I really hate to see Head Start and education programs go away because a lot of times that’s the only meal for some of these kids, just like these seniors. Other than this, it might be a bowl of cereal,” said Angela Courter, Regional Manager at Non-Metro New Mexico Agency on Aging. “It’s not an abuse of funding to feed these little kids. If you see for yourself the condition that these seniors are living in, it’s not an abuse of funding to feed them. This is 115,565 meals a year that could go away, and who would feed these people?”

“I think we can all agree that we want to end fraud, waste, and abuse in every federal program, but the administration’s current sloppy and arbitrary approach isn’t the way to do it. It’s just not,” said Vasquez. “The folks that are making these decisions don’t really know what they’re doing or what the trickle-down impact is in our communities. We’ve got to put an end to that…and I’ll continue to fight for a full budget and to protect these funding streams.”

WATCH RECORDING OF MEETING HERE

This meeting built on Rep. Vasquez’s visit the day prior with leaders and students at Hobbs High School. At Hobbs High School, the discussion focused on the impact federal SNAP cuts imposed by the new Republican tax law were having on their school community. Sonya Moore, the Nutritional Services Coordinator for Hobbs Municipal Schools, expressed deep concerns about increased cost pressures on the schools’ free lunch programs.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-rep-stansbury-fights-new-mexico-seniors-social-security,"VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Fights for New Mexico Seniors, Social Security",2025-08-07,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE — Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) kept fighting on Thursday against President Trump and DOGE efforts to slash Social Security Administration staffing, close administration field offices, and mine beneficiaries’ personal data during a press conference on the introduction of the Hands Off Our Social Security Act.

The bill also responds to recent Supreme Court rulings allowing DOGE to expanded access to Social Security information.

Find photos and videos here.

""Social Security is one of the most successful social safety net programs in American history. It has saved countless Americans. It has allowed our seniors to live the life they deserve to live and to live life with dignity,"" Congresswoman Stansbury said. “Social security is the lifeline that keeps people from living in poverty. We must do everything we can to protect it, especially now, as we know, the current administration is openly talking about dismantling key pieces of social security and privatizing aspects of it.”

“When we talk about protecting social security, we're talking about supporting retirees and workers who are fighting every day for a little retirement security,” said John “JD” Doran, AFSCME retiree and 2nd VP of the NM Alliance. “You have no idea what retirement security means until you retire and find out you don't have it. We're trying to prevent that from happening. Social Security contributes more than three million dollars to New Mexico's economy every month – that's what keeps this state strong.”

Today also marks Honor Our Veterans Day of Action, a day where House Democrats across the country are reaffirming their commitment to veterans and their families.

As Donald Trump and House Republicans cut services and make life harder for veterans and their families, Congresswoman Stansbury will always honor our nation’s veterans by fighting to fully fund the Veterans Administration and ensuring our heroes get the benefits they deserve.

The Congresswoman knows that veterans have proudly served America and defended our freedom. She is working every day to provide them with the care and benefits they earned through their service.

""Social security is pretty much a lifesaver for us, because without the VA benefits, would be paying out for Medicare B premiums, which are not cheap,” said Gary Brault, a U.S. Army veteran. “I hope it doesn’t go away because that would really hurt.”

Social Security cuts would directly impact the 468,030 New Mexicans that receive monthly Social Security benefits, including the:

· 345,706 who are retired workers.

· 54,280 who are disabled workers.

· 28,994 who are children.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-visits-local-hospital-risk-closure-republican-medicaid-cuts,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Visits Local Hospital at Risk of Closure from Republican Medicaid Cuts, Speaks with Medicaid Beneficiaries About Devastating Impact of Cuts",2025-08-06,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Carlsbad, N.M. – On August 5, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) visited Carlsbad Medical Center, a rural hospital in his district that is at risk of having to cut services or close its doors due to Medicaid cuts under the Republican tax law. The Republican cuts to Medicaid jeopardize benefits for more than 110,000 patients across New Mexico – including 40,000 in Rep. Vasquez’s district.

During the visit, Rep. Vasquez met with Carlsbad Medical Center leadership and staff, who explained the hospital’s critical role as the primary point of care for the surrounding community and expressed concerns about the Republican tax law’s impact on affordability and patient health outcomes.

“Carlsbad Medical Center is the cornerstone of care for this community. Many of our patients live in rural surrounding areas, and we are the only hospital within 30 miles,” said Matthew Banks, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Carlsbad Medical Center. “Under the new tax law, we expect to deliver more uncompensated and emergency care, which means a harsher financial reality for our hospital. As Medicaid beneficiaries lose access to their health care, they will no longer be able to afford preventive care that can stave off medical emergencies, and that is heartbreaking.”

Other concerns raised by hospital leadership included:

Concerns about having to close or limit the hospital’s obstetrics unit due to Republican cuts to Medicaid. Carlsbad Medical Center is the only hospital where women can give birth within a 30-mile radius.

Concerns about health insurance premiums rising by an average of $700 per year if the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits not being reauthorized before the end of 2025

An ongoing provider shortage, which strains the already demanding nature of delivering care in a health care desert.

“Health care has been too expensive for a very long time, but under Republicans’ new tax law, the situation is about to get much, much worse for many New Mexicans,” said Vasquez. “No expectant mother should have to worry if she will make it to a hospital in time to give birth, and no family should worry about skyrocketing health care premiums. But in my district, that could very well soon be our new reality thanks to Republicans who chose to cut Medicaid benefits for 110,000 hard working New Mexicans — all so they could give massive tax breaks to the wealthy. It didn’t have to be this way.”

On August 6, 2025, Rep. Vasquez hosted a roundtable with CARC, Inc — a large disability service provider in Carlsbad that provides residential, day program, supported work, and case management services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — on the impact of Medicaid cuts in New Mexico under the new Republican tax law. During the roundtable, the Congressman heard from concerned Medicaid beneficiaries and their families, as well as care administrators, about the toll Medicaid cuts would have on this community, where 87% of the population supported by CARC is dependent on Medicaid or Medicare for their health care coverage.

“The recent cuts to Medicaid will undoubtedly add challenges to our health care system here in New Mexico, especially for our rural and Tribal communities,” said Vasquez. “I’m working with leaders at the state level to find a way to backfill funding cuts and minimize the pain felt by our community members.”

VIEW RECORDING OF ROUNDTABLE HERE

Laura, a CARC, Inc. employee and single parent of a 12-year-old Medicaid beneficiary, said, “Without the Medicaid benefits, Gracie would not be the success story that she is today. For us, Medicaid is not just a program, it's a lifeline. My hope is that Medicaid benefits will continue to be available for families like mine in the future.”

Summer Gonzalez, who works for a local cardiologist, said, “We serve a four county area. We serve Roswell, Hobbs, Artesia, and Carlsbad. We were doing outreach events at different places like Hobbs, Roswell, and Artesia, and we were seeing that care was really needed there. They didn't have a local cardiologist at the time, and everyone was having to travel for care. That's really hard for people in this area. So we branched out to provide their own sort of practice…but the Medicare cuts would make it pretty hard. We're operating at a breakeven status almost every month. You know, reimbursement for small rural health facilities is very different than for big facilities in different areas, and having that loss of income for Medicaid would really affect our ability to serve our community.”

Aaron Vega, a PA primary care provider at Presbyterian Medical Services, commented, “Maybe this saves money up top, but in the long run, we're going to see more costs… A lot of the screenings will be unavailable. Preventative care saves more money in the end, but we’ll have an issue providing that service.”

“During our conversation with Congressman Gabe Vasquez, we heard from local heart specialists, medical clinics, and individuals directly impacted by Medicaid—including one of our own CARC employees whose 12-year-old daughter has developmental disabilities and needs specialized medical professionals on a daily basis. The conversation centered on the devastating effects the proposed Medicaid cuts would have on access to care in our rural and remote community. It’s not just Medicaid recipients who will feel the impact. Many local healthcare providers rely on Medicaid to stay open, and without this funding, everyone in our community will face limited healthcare options. This will further strain an already fragile system and leave individuals without the care they need,” said Karla Niemeier, Director of Development and Communication at CARC, Inc.

In July, Vasquez voted against the Republican tax law which will cause thousands of New Mexicans to lose their health care coverage, harming New Mexicans’ health outcomes for generations to give massive tax cuts for billionaires.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-bipartisan-push-protect-new-mexican-pecan-producers,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Push to Protect New Mexican Pecan Producers,2025-08-04,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 30, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter urging the U.S. Trade Representative to ensure American pecan producers are not left behind in ongoing trade negotiations with India. New Mexican pecan producers deserve full access to markets that will allow them to continue to grow their businesses.

In the letter to Ambassador Jamieson Greer, lawmakers from New Mexico and Georgia emphasized the importance of export opportunities for growers. They stressed that under increasing trade barriers for U.S. pecans in the Indian market, producers will face devastating setbacks.

“Our pecan growers are already navigating drought, labor shortages, and high input costs. The threat of further retaliatory tariffs will be devastating. A rushed or incomplete deal risks leaving this sector behind at a time when global demand for pecans is projected to grow substantially, with the global pecan market expected to reach $3.64 billion by 2034,” the lawmakers wrote.

The letter comes as trade negotiations between the U.S. and India have stalled amid President Trump’s recent announcement that imports from India would soon be subject to a steep 25 percent tariff. The president threatened additional penalties on India, threatening to derail a potential trade deal and jeopardize U.S. agricultural exports.

“New Mexico farmers are working harder than ever to turn a profit, and they deserve a level playing field and viable export markets,” said Vasquez. “New Mexico’s pecan industry is a mainstay in our agricultural economy. Any trade deal with India must include negotiated opportunities to grow pecan exports that produce sustainable farm income and good-paying jobs here at home.”

“The National Pecan Federation is grateful to Congressman Vasquez and others who signed to send this letter to USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer in support of the American pecan industry. We are continuously seeking new markets for pecan exports, but one of our main focuses over the past few years has been India,” said Larry Don Womack, National Pecan Federation Chairman. “Although the U.S. pecan industry has had great success in developing a trade relationship with India, the tariff rate is still too high for our industry to remain competitive with other tree nut exports. Additionally, pecan importers in India have requested the U.S. to export in-shell pecans, and we've been waiting for approval to offer this product. We appreciate this letter and its support for our efforts in improving and strengthening our trade agreements with India. This is an extremely important effort to help ensure the U.S. pecan industry remains viable and has opportunities to expand to additional foreign markets.”

“I am very grateful to Congressman Vasquez for leading this bipartisan effort to address the global trade challenges that U.S. pecan growers are facing,” said JJ Glover, New Mexico Pecan Grower and National Pecan Federation Member. “The U.S. pecan industry has potential to improve the American pecan presence in India, but battling various trade barriers has been extremely challenging. This issue is extremely important to New Mexico’s pecan growers, particularly those of us in the 2nd Congressional district. I appreciate the continued work by pecan state members of Congress in advocating for American pecan growers and look forward to having additional export opportunities.”

“As a New Mexico pecan grower, I’m proud to see this effort led by Congressman Vasquez. I appreciate the members of Congress who have worked diligently to represent our interests as an industry,” said Brycen Salopek, Board Member and Past President of Western Pecan Growers Association. “The U.S. pecan industry is a significant leader in the global nut market, but we have potential to improve our foreign trade relations. We look forward to pursuing the opportunities offered with India, and are thankful for assistance in lowering current tariff rates and allowing for an expansion of exported products.”

Rep. Vasquez remains committed to ensuring agricultural producers are not overlooked in trade negotiations in favor of industries like steel and automobiles, stressing that any final deal must deliver real benefits for farmers as well.

You can read a copy of the letter below or click the link here.

Dear Ambassador Greer,

We write to urge you to prioritize American pecan producers in ongoing trade negotiations with India and to extend the deadline for trade talks with India. Our states – New Mexico, Texas, and Georgia – are home to the world’s top pecan producers, and growers across our districts are counting on strong export opportunities to sustain their operations. Without action to lower trade barriers and finalize access for U.S. pecans in the Indian market, this vital industry will face unnecessary setbacks.

We must ensure that American producers have access to the world market. India is one of the fastest-growing markets for American pecans. In 2022, the U.S. exported more than $1.3 million worth of pecans to India, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) ’s Foreign Agricultural Service projects that figure could rise to $5 million annually. While India’s decision to reduce tariffs from 100% to 30% was a positive step, this rate remains prohibitively high and continues to stifle the full potential of this emerging export market.

We urge you and the Trump Administration to make the pecan industry a central part of the ongoing U.S.-India trade discussions. This includes pushing for further tariff reductions, finalizing access for in-shell pecans, and working closely with USDA to expedite the Pest Risk Analysis process required to obtain a Phytosanitary Certificate. These actions are critical to ensuring fair market access for an industry that accounts for 80% of global pecan production and exports nearly 30% of its crop.

We also request that you and the Administration support an extension of the August 1 deadline to allow more time to reach an agreement. Our pecan growers are already navigating drought, labor shortages, and high input costs. The threat of further retaliatory tariffs would be devastating. A rushed or incomplete deal risks leaving this sector behind at a time when global demand for pecans is projected to grow substantially, with the global pecan market expected to reach $3.64 billion by 2034.

Pecan producers in New Mexico, Texas, Georgia, and across the country are ready to meet this growing demand. They need fair access to international markets and a trade agenda that reflects the economic importance of this crop. We urge you to ensure that the pecan industry remains a central part of our trade agenda with India and to take the necessary steps to support the success of American producers.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-stands-service-members-pushes-more-affordable-housing-and-celebrates,"Vasquez Stands with Service Members, Pushes for More Affordable Housing, and Celebrates Public Lands Victory",2025-08-01,2025,2025-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Las Cruces, N.M. – On August 1, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) concluded a productive district work period week in the southern portion of his district. Several events of note during the work period included:

Rep. Vasquez Stands with Service Members

On Tuesday, July 29, Rep. Vasquez visited White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), one of the premier defense facilities in the nation, the birthplace of America’s missile program, and a point of pride for those that call Southern New Mexico home. He met with WSMR’s new Senior Commander, Col. Andrew R. Morgan, and the two discussed the Congressman’s ongoing work to help WSMR secure federal funds to improve outdated housing and school infrastructure — enhancing quality of life for service members and their families.

“Service members at White Sands train tirelessly, work hard, and selflessly serve their country while living in outdated housing that is decades past its prime—that’s just not right,” said Vasquez. “That’s why in mid-July, I pushed Army Secretary Driscoll and Army Installation Management Command to dispense $7 million dollars to make much-needed improvements to service member housing at White Sands Missile Range, and I was promised those funds are on their way.”

Rep. Vasquez also worked to ensure that his bipartisan TRICARE Travel Improvement Act was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which will help military families serving in remote areas, including at WSMR, access health care by reducing the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty service members and their families. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Vasquez helped advance the bill out of Committee with strong bipartisan support and it now awaits consideration by the full House.

Rep. Vasquez and Col. Morgan also discussed the Congressman’s efforts to secure $38.5 million for a power generating microgrid at WSMR under the FY 2026 NDAA, which Col. Morgan said was necessary as WSMR “looks forward to the future.”

Rep. Vasquez Pushes for More Affordable Housing

On Tuesday, July 29, Rep. Vasquez also met with Alamogordo officials, advocates, and residents to find real solutions to lower housing costs and keep homes within reach for working families.

“One in 6 homes in New Mexico are mobile homes, making the scale of this affordability issue enormous,” said Vasquez. “I refuse to sit by and let greedy, negligent landlords from out-of-state price gouge mobile home rental prices, driving our neighbors out of the homes and communities they have known all their lives.”

In the coming weeks, Rep. Vasquez will introduce his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act to ensure that outside investor groups do not purchase outsized numbers of mobile homes and pads to drastically increase the rent and price out current residents.

[VIEW A RECORDING OF THE MEETING HERE]

Rep. Vasquez Celebrates Public Lands Victory

On Wednesday, July 30, Rep. Vasquez visited White Sands National Park — marking his first official public lands visit since he successfully led a bipartisan push to protect 3.3 million acres of public land across New Mexico and ten other states from being sold under the Republican tax plan.

During the visit, he had the opportunity to talk with National Park Service staff about the ongoing funding and staffing shortages national parks are facing, the impact the park has on southern New Mexico’s economy, and his commitment to continue advocating for our public lands in Congress.

“Places like White Sands National Park are a reminder of why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment and why it’s vital to keep public lands in public hands,” said Vasquez. “I’m proud that my bipartisan Public Lands Caucus won a major victory in preventing Senator Lee’s attempt to sell 3.3 million acres of our public land, and we will keep working to preserve these treasured lands for future generations.”

The visit concluded with a special treat: a chance to see the oldest human footprint in the United States.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:57:50Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-stansbury-neguse-larson-johnson-fight-protect-social-security,"VIDEO: Stansbury, Neguse, Larson, Johnson Fight to Protect Social Security",2025-07-30,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) with Assistant LeaderJoe Neguse (CO-02),Representative John B. Larson (CT-01), and RepresentativeJulie Johnson (TX-32) introduced the Hands Off Our Social Security Act, new legislation to protect the integrity and accessibility of the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Endorsed by Social Security Works, the bill is a direct response cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to slash SSA staffing, close field offices, and mine beneficiaries’ personal data. It also responds to recent Supreme Court rulings allowing DOGE to expanded access to Social Security information.

“Social Security is not a luxury—it’s a promise that Americans earn through hard work,” said Rep. Stansbury. “This bill ensures that promise is kept, by stopping efforts to gut the system, privatize it, or make it harder for people to get help. People who have paid into the system deserve benefits they can count on, privacy that’s respected, and real people to help when they need support. I’ve hosted over 20 town halls this year, and not one constituent has asked for cuts to their earned benefits. This bill restores the level of service Americans could rely on before Trump’s cuts took effect.”

“To save Social Security, we must continue to use every tool available to push back against Donald Trump’s scheme to gut this vital and hard-earned lifeline for seniors and people with disabilities. That’s why I’m proud to join Representatives Stansbury, Larson, and Johnson in introducing the Hands Off Our Social Security Act, a bill that stands up for American taxpayers and protects the integrity and accessibility of the Social Security Administration,” said Congressman Joe Neguse.

“The Trump Administration is trying to dismantle Social Security from within so they can slash and privatize seniors’ hard-earned benefits,” said Rep. Larson. “I am proud to take a stand with Rep. Stansbury and our colleagues today to tell them to take their hands off Social Security. Our bill will block the President and his ‘DOGE’ from moving forward with their plans to close field offices, undermine customer service at the Social Security Administration, and rummage through your personal records. Democrats are united around protecting Social Security, not cutting it, so the more than 70 million Americans who rely on the benefits they earned can keep up with rising expenses.”

The Hands Off Our Social Security Act would:

Protect benefits from unauthorized tampering, delays, or changes

Block privatization of Social Security services or administration

Enforce strict privacy protections for beneficiary data

Prohibit SSA staffing cuts without Congressional approval

Prevent field office closures without an impact report and consent from Congress

Ensure communication access, maintaining phone and in-person services as core options

Require annual GAO audits on staffing, operations, and compliance

Millions of Americans—including seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income individuals —depend on Social Security for stability.

The bill is designed to protect those individuals from being harmed by executive overreach, underfunding, or political games.

Across New Mexico, 476,894 residents rely on Social Security benefits, with nearly 35% of beneficiaries in the 1st Congressional District alone.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-transparency-ice-otero-county-detention-center,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Transparency from ICE at Otero County Detention Center Oversight Visit,2025-07-30,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 30, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) visited the Otero County Processing Center to carry out his oversight duties as a Member of Congress and get critical insight into how ICE is treating detainees using taxpayer funds.

During the visit, the Congressman met with ICE representatives and private contractor staff, was given a tour of the facility, and underscored the urgent need for consistent, independent oversight to ensure taxpayer-funded detention centers uphold basic standards of care and human dignity.

Despite his lawful right to congressional oversight and prior submission of privacy forms, the Congressman was not permitted to speak with detained individuals — a restriction which facility staff stated was due to “changing policies.”

“I am all for measures that keep our borders and communities secure, but after my visit to the Otero Processing Center, it is only more clear that ICE is not making our communities safer,” said Vasquez. “Today, we learned that over 80% of the individuals detained in this facility have no criminal charges or convictions — meaning the administration is not just targeting violent individuals, it's filling detention centers with workers, parents, and our community members. ICE’s complete disregard for the need for transparent legal processes and accountability around the spending of taxpayer money is unacceptable.”

During the Congressman’s visit, he encountered:

ICE representatives who were unwilling and unable to give him clear and straightforward answers to questions regarding their treatment of their detainees

Phones — which detained individuals rely on to speak with legal counsel and loved ones — which were broken

Toilets which would not flush

Accounts of the facility’s history of an understaffed medical team

Vasquez continues to champion legislation like his Humane Accountability Act, which would increase transparency around ICE detention and strengthen reporting standards for how individuals are treated in federal detention centers.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-condemns-gaza-starvation-policy-calls-end-military-aid-israel-until,"Vasquez condemns Gaza starvation policy, calls for end to military aid to Israel until ceasefire is reached",2025-07-30,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 30, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

“The intentional starvation of innocent children in Gaza is undeniable and abhorrent. It is unacceptable that Prime Minister Netanyahu openly denies the effect of his own cruel actions in a way that clearly flies in the face of what millions around the world have seen with their own eyes. This stark violation of human rights calls on us to do everything we can to protect the lives of these innocent children.”

“The administration must use every diplomatic tool possible to put an end to this atrocity and immediately pause all military assistance until a ceasefire is reached. Additionally, sanctions must be placed on Israeli officials who have ordered or condoned the killing of innocent civilians. The United States must hold those who have contributed to the killing of innocent people — including children — accountable, and President Trump must use his power to bring an end to this conflict and humanitarian crisis,” said Vasquez.

As the first member of the New Mexico delegation to call for a ceasefire, Rep. Vasquez has continued to push the administration to ensure innocent civilians in Gaza are not subjected to mass starvation and indiscriminate killing on the American taxpayer’s dime.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-vasquez-presses-administration-immediate-release-56-billion-education,ICYMI: Vasquez Presses the Administration for the Immediate Release of $5.6 Billion in Education Funds,2025-07-28,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) alongside the New Mexico Delegation sent a letter to President Donald Trump demanding the immediate release of nearly $5.6 billion in federal education funding withheld from New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools.

In mid-July, the New Mexico Delegation secured $1.3 billion in funding for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. This vital program supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. Funding like this is critical to ensuring students and their families have access to learning programs and education resources during the summer. While releasing this funding is critical, the NM Delegation stressed that the administration must release the remainder of the funding.

“We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your Administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds,” the lawmakers began.

“You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds,” the lawmakers continued.

For New Mexico, the funding freeze would be devastating. It would impact programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

Should the funds remain frozen, New Mexico also stood to lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Citing these devastating consequences to the education and well-being of New Mexico students, the lawmakers concluded, “Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children is unconscionable and schools deserve better. We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.”

Public officials across the country have raised strong concerns about the freeze in funding. Earlier this month, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez joined 21 states across the country to sue the Trump Administration for withholding the education funds.

Read the full text of the letter here and below:

President Trump:

We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds.

You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds.

For New Mexico, the funding freeze is devastating. It impacts programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. New Mexico was set to receive more than $9 million this year and now more than 10,000 children in New Mexico risk losing access entirely. In 2021, almost 90 percent of students who participated in a 21st Century Community Learning program saw better homework completion rates, increased classroom participation, and improved in-class behavior.

New Mexico will also lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children is unconscionable and schools deserve better.

We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/new-mexico-manufacturers-meet-vasquez-speak-out-against-tariffs-harm-local,"New Mexico Manufacturers Meet with Vasquez, Speak Out Against Tariffs’ Harm on Local Businesses",2025-07-28,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SUNLAND PARK, N.M. – On July 28, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with local leaders from Santa Teresa’s manufacturing sector who voiced intense concerns about how the administration’s trade policies and tariffs are harming their businesses.

WATCH: VASQUEZ ANSWERS QUESTIONS ON TRADE AND TARIFF IMPACTS

After hearing concerns from plant managers and other top leaders of manufacturing companies operating locally in Southern New Mexico, Vasquez delivered a clear message: the uncertainty created by the administration’s shifting trade policies is jeopardizing local jobs, stalling investments, and putting border community manufacturers at risk.

“What we have seen is that the tariffs are having a very negative impact on businesses that are choosing to relocate here and businesses that want to expand here. And that is because the nature of the tariffs this administration has proposed have been so uncertain. We’ve lost investments here in Santa Teresa,” said Vasquez. “Today, I heard directly from plant managers and business owners who have been impacted by the administration’s decisions. The truth is, if we want to grow jobs here locally in Southern New Mexico, we need some certainty from the president.”

“We have the economic uncertainty hitting us two ways. We're having companies that are getting really, really scrunched in terms of their industry because people are not placing orders or are postponing buying decisions. That's one side of it. The other side is the businesses we're not getting because they're not going to make a multi‑million‑dollar investment decision in this environment right now. I've seen three deals—two in the automotive industry and one in the electronics industry—totally go away, and we're hoping they come back once we get some certainty in terms of tariffs.” said Jerry Pacheco, President of the New Mexico Border Industrial Association.

Roundtable participants included leaders from various sectors, including copper, steel, and aluminum manufacturing, logistics, and printing.

Key concerns raised by local business leaders and manufacturers include:

Pausing or cancellation of millions of dollars in investments in Southern New Mexico due to uncertainties around tariffs

Hundreds of jobs lost in Southern New Mexico due to paused investments

Fears of speaking out publicly against administration trade policy due to concerns about retaliation

Vasquez is committed to advocating for New Mexico’s border economy, protecting local jobs, and ensuring that international trade critical to the state’s manufacturers remains strong and stable, including through the reintroduction of his Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-announces-major-milestone-43-million-returned-southern-new-mexicans,Vasquez Announces Major Milestone: $4.3 Million Returned to Southern New Mexicans through Casework,2025-07-24,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 24, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced that his office has successfully returned over $4.3 million to constituents in New Mexico’s Second District in 2025.

“I’m excited to announce that my office has put over $4 million back in constituents’ pockets,” said Vasquez. “New Mexicans deserve an accessible, accountable government that works for them without red tape or bureaucracy. These success stories are a testament to my office’s commitment to ensuring hard working folks get every last dollar they deserve.”

Rep. Vasquez’s casework team works directly with constituents to resolve issues with federal agencies including the IRS, Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and more.

“With the help of Congressman Vasquez, our case was resolved in just two weeks — with back pay of $4,555.00 and monthly benefits of $421.00. We are so grateful for the fast, successful outcome thanks to Congressman Vasquez. After a tough year of loss and disappointment, their help turned everything around,” said Dorothy and Stefanie of Socorro.

""Congressman Vasquez was a great help in helping me recover $9,512 in delayed income tax refunds from the past two years, which had been held up after my husband passed away,” said Kate of Las Cruces.

“Before my VA benefits were approved, I was barely getting by, unable to afford basics like food. With the $78,816 I received in benefits and back pay, I paid off high‑interest debt and now can live with dignity. I’m deeply grateful to Congressman Vasquez and his office for helping make this possible,” said Jerome of Belen.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-opposes-republican-push-nearly-8b-cuts-military-spending,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Opposes Republican Push for Nearly $8B in Cuts to Military Spending,2025-07-18,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted against the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Department of Defense funding bill. The bill appropriates $831.5 billion for military activities, flat funding from FY25, while also directing the military to make $7.75 billion in across-the-board cuts to amounts listed in the bill.

“Republicans want to force our military to make nearly $8 billion in DOGE-style cuts on things like troop readiness, troop pay, and weapons procurement and modernization,” said Vasquez. “I can’t vote for a bill that kneecaps U.S. national security interests in Ukraine, underfunds critical operations and maintenance programs by billions of dollars, underinvests in our service members and their families, and prevents service members from traveling to seek reproductive health care. None of those things make our country safer or stronger against our adversaries.”

Key provisions in the FY Department of Defense funding bill include:

Underfunding of Operations & Maintenance by $10.7 billion

Prohibits funding for travel expenses related to reproductive care, such as abortion, even in states where abortion is unavailable

Direction for the Department of Defense to determine $7.75 billion in cuts. If made uniformly, these cuts would mean:

$2 billion from troop pay

$2 billion from troop readiness

$409 million from health programs

$2 billion in cuts for procurement and modernization of weapons systems

Elimination of $300 million in support for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative

As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Vasquez is a strong defender of our national security. Earlier this week, he voted to pass the bipartisan FY26 National Defense Authorization Act, which included a pay increase for our troops, investments to ensure our service members and their families have the resources they need, support for our allies, and critical wins for New Mexico’s Second Congressional District.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-against-reckless-cuts-rural-tv-and-radio-programs-and,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes Against Reckless Cuts to Rural TV and Radio Programs and Foreign Aid,2025-07-18,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted against the $9 billion Republican rescissions package, rejecting cuts to critical public broadcasting programs and foreign aid.

“The last thing we should be doing is shutting down public radio and television that hardworking New Mexicans rely on for severe weather alerts, local news coverage, and educational programming for kids,” said Vasquez. “It’s offensive that Republicans don’t see the value in these news and educational resources for our communities.""

The Republican rescissions package includes significant domestic and international funding cuts that would:

Eliminate $1.1 billion in funding for public television and public radio, cutting off coverage of local news and high school sports, eliminating emergency information like severe weather alerts, and jeopardizing access to PBS KIDS children’s programming, like Sesame Street.

Eliminate all civilian assistance for Ukraine and Eastern European partners facing Russian aggression.

Cut $2.5 billion in global development aid.

Vasquez remains committed to ensuring rural communities receive the federal investments in communications and connectivity that they deserve.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-foster-digital-innovation-and-advance-consumer,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Foster Digital Innovation and Advance Consumer Protections,2025-07-17,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 17, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in support of two bipartisan bills — the CLARITY Act and the GENIUS Act — marking a critical step forward in the regulation of digital assets, the protection of crypto users, and blockchain innovation.

“These bipartisan bills, while not perfect, add important and much-needed regulation and guardrails to the digital asset industry,” said Vasquez. “We need to continue working to develop clear, commonsense rules that protect consumers, promote innovation, and prevent fraud and money laundering. New Mexicans deserve transparency, accountability, and equal access to new financial tools.”

The CLARITY Act establishes a regulatory framework for digital assets. Under the bill, more established digital assets would be treated like commodities and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), while newer assets would be treated as securities and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This legislation would help prevent fraud, create a more stable market, and ensure all investors are playing by the same rules.

The GENIUS Act establishes the rules of the road for stablecoins: digital assets backed by physical assets like the U.S. dollar which currently lack comprehensive federal regulations to protect consumers. By establishing the first ever guardrails for these assets – holding stablecoin issuers to strict requirements, and instituting strong protections against trafficking – this bill safeguards consumers and strengthens financial security.

“We need to ensure our regulatory frameworks keep pace with innovation, and this is a step in the right direction,” said Vasquez. “I will continue to seek out ways to maximize consumer protections and ethics standards in the cryptocurrency industry.”

Vasquez continues to fight for the economic security of all New Mexicans by holding Big Tech accountable and protecting consumers from digital exploitation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-leads-bipartisan-border-legislation-combat-cartels-exploitation,Vasquez Leads Bipartisan Border Legislation to Combat Cartels’ Exploitation of American Youth and Crack Down on Smugglers,2025-07-17,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the No More Narcos Act and the Stop COYOTES Act, two critical bipartisan bills designed to address the continued threat of organized criminal activity in border communities. The legislation targets drug cartels and human traffickers who exploit vulnerable populations, particularly children, and strengthens law enforcement’s ability to respond through enhanced coordination and accountability.

“Representing 180 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, I’ve had the opportunity to hear directly from law enforcement, educators, and families about the very real challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations in border towns,” said Vasquez. “My bipartisan bills strengthen our ability to disrupt cartel activity, protect our kids from exploitation, and equip local law enforcement with the tools and coordination they need to keep communities safe.”

The No More Narcos Act creates a coordinated educational campaign led by the Department of Justice in partnership with the DEA, DHS, the Department of Education, and other federal, state, and tribal agencies. The campaign will directly engage middle and high school students within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border about the dangers of working with cartels and other Transnational Criminal Organizations. This legislation was introduced with Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) and is supported by the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico.

The Stop COYOTES Act improves public safety by imposing harsher penalties against human smugglers and fentanyl traffickers while also improving information sharing and reporting between DHS and local law enforcement along the border. Under the bill, DHS must report on trafficking trends, smuggling routes, and cartel activity — ensuring that local communities have the data they need to respond in real time. This legislation was introduced with Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX).

Both bills are supported by the Sunland Park Police Department and Las Cruces Police Department.

“For too long, dangerous criminals have exploited our border crisis to traffic innocent children and smuggle deadly narcotics into our nation,” said McCaul. “It’s time we finally put a stop to these predators and ensure law enforcement agencies have the information-sharing infrastructure to do their jobs efficiently and effectively. I am proud to co-lead this bill alongside Rep. Vasquez to protect innocent children across Texas and support our local law enforcement officers as they work to counter cartel-sponsored crime.”

“New Mexico’s educators are on the frontlines of keeping our communities safe, and we know that protecting our students from the influence of criminal organizations requires both vigilance and leadership. We applaud Congressman Vasquez for continuing to prioritize student safety through action, not just words, and we remain committed to supporting efforts that safeguard the wellbeing of every student in our schools,” said Whitney Holland, President of AFT New Mexico.

“Border communities such as Sunland Park, New Mexico, are on the front lines of problems posed by human smugglers, fentanyl traffickers, and cartels seeking to recruit American teens,” said Chief Eric Lopez, Sunland Park Police Department. “Through these bills, Rep. Vasquez is leading on the sort of real-world solutions that will crack down on criminals to actually make our schools and streets safer. Working collaboratively with a common goal will ensure our border region stays safe and continues to thrive.”

“I thank Congressman Vasquez for prioritizing the needs of New Mexicans and working in a bipartisan way to find solutions that will support law enforcement and improve public safety,” said Chief Jeremy Story, Las Cruces Police Department. “These bills strike the right balance between prevention, education, and enforcement, and they send a strong message that exploiting our kids or flooding our communities with fentanyl will not be tolerated.”

Vasquez is committed to delivering smart, bipartisan solutions that protect New Mexico’s youth, disrupt criminal networks, and strengthen the resilience of border communities. Earlier this year, Vasquez led a bipartisan letter to the State Department supporting efforts to combat cartels and urging the Department to work collaboratively with border communities while protecting cross-border trade. He also backed legislation to crack down on dangerous car chases in border communities.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-honors-downwinders-80th-anniversary-trinity-test,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Honors Downwinders on 80th Anniversary of The Trinity Test,2025-07-16,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 16, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement on the 80th anniversary of the Trinity Test:

“For 80 years, generations of New Mexican Downwinders have endured the Trinity Test’s devastating legacy while the government looked the other way,” said Vasquez. “Today, I’m proud that Congress has finally reauthorized and expanded the Radiation Expansion Compensation Act, delivering long overdue justice for the New Mexican families that were exposed to harm without their consent, knowledge, or recourse. This moment is about honoring the lives lost, the voices ignored, and the communities left behind — making sure they are never forgotten.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-pass-national-defense-bill-delivering-military-strength,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Pass National Defense Bill, Delivering Military Strength and Wins on NM Priorities",2025-07-15,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 15, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) – a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) – voted in favor of the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

“It is vital that we ensure America’s armed forces have the training, equipment, and resources they need to carry out their missions,” said Vasquez. “This bipartisan bill includes my legislation to improve health care for our rural veterans, give our troops a pay raise, recognize New Mexico’s Downwinders, and add many additional provisions that support service members and their families across our state.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes $882.6 billion in defense spending, national security investments, and support for our military. This includes funding for research and development, a 3.8% pay increase for our troops, and investments to support service members and their families. The bill passed out of Committee by a vote of 55-2 and will now head to the House floor for consideration.

Included in the NDAA are Vasquez’s TRICARE Travel Improvement Act and Downwinder Commemoration Act, which ensure New Mexicans’ needs are met and interests are reflected through the nation’s defense investments.

The TRICARE Travel Improvement Act helps military families serving in remote areas access health care by reducing the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty service members and their families. Currently, families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who travel nearly 100 miles to El Paso for medical care are denied reimbursement due to being just under the threshold. This bill is a step toward fairness and affordability for New Mexico’s military families.

The Downwinder Commemoration Act recognizes the harm endured by New Mexico’s Downwinders following the 1945 Trinity Test — the first nuclear detonation in U.S. history. It directs the Departments of Defense and Interior to place commemorative monuments in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. Despite their exposure to radioactive fallout, Downwinder families were excluded from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) until Rep. Vasquez’s successful push to reauthorize and expand RECA to include New Mexico’s Downwinders. This bill helps deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating their suffering while preserving their legacy for future generations.

In addition to these two measures, Rep. Vasquez secured the following priorities in NDAA:

Infrastructure & Safety:

White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) Power Grid: $38.5 million for power generation and a microgrid at WSMR under the Energy Resiliency and Conservation Investment Program (ERCIP)

Kirtland Air Force Base Space HQ: $83 million for Space Rapid Capabilities Office Headquarters construction at Kirtland Air Force Base

Holloman Air Force Base Test Track: Report language highlighting the importance of Holloman’s High Speed Test Track and requiring a report on the timeline for constructing a new parallel track

Cannon Air Force Base Dorms: $90 million for dorms at Cannon Air Force Base

PFAS Cleanup: Language protecting mandated annual reports on DOD PFAS contamination and cleanup efforts, to ensure states like New Mexico have continued visibility into PFAS contamination

PFAS Technology: Report language requiring DOD to partner with universities like NMSU to develop cutting edge technology to detect and cleanup PFAS contaminants

Unexploded Ordinance:

Native American Lands Environmental Mitigation Program: Report language holding DOD accountable for cleaning up unexploded ordinance (UXO) on Tribal lands like the Pueblo of Isleta

Rural Issues:

Rural Housing: Report language requiring DOD to partner with local housing authorities in rural areas to address shortages of housing around remote and isolated installations like WSMR and Holloman Air Force Base

Specialty Healthcare at Rural Bases: Report language highlighting the challenges service members and families face at rural installations when accessing specialty healthcare and requiring a report on ways the Department can improve specialty provider accessibility

Holloman Air Force Base Childcare: Report language encouraging DOD to expand the in-home childcare pilot program to four rural installations, including Holloman Air Force Base

National Labs/DOE:

Los Alamos: $1.55 billion for plutonium operations, including ensuring the capacity to produce 30 plutonium pits annually

Other Bill Highlights:

Pay Raise: 3.8% pay raise for all service members

Housing: $1.5 billion for new construction of dorms, barracks, housing, and child development centers

Ukraine: $300 million for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative

Environment: $460 million for environmental cleanup and $684 for the Energy Resilience and Conservation Investment Program

“As this critical legislation continues to make its way through the House, I will keep working to improve it,” Vasquez added. “To maintain U.S. military superiority, we cannot afford to politicize our policies for recruiting, developing, and retaining the best and brightest.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-immediate-release-withheld-education-funds-including,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Immediate Release of Withheld Education Funds, Including $12 Million for Albuquerque Public Schools",2025-07-11,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) urging the administration to release $6.9 billion in congressionally approved federal education funds currently being unlawfully withheld from states and local school districts.

The freeze, announced by the Department of Education on June 30, 2025, will hit low-income students, English learners, and rural communities hardest. New Mexico’s public schools are projected to lose more than $44 million in total withheld funding, with New Mexico’s second Congressional district expected to lose over $21.6 million alone. Albuquerque Public Schools, the largest school district in the state, could lose up to $12 million in critical federal funding.

“This funding was already approved by Congress, period. There's no excuse for it to be sitting on the sidelines,” said Vasquez. “Every day of delay means fewer teachers, fewer resources, and more stress on students, particularly those who need the most support: our rural kids, English language learners, and children from low-income families. As someone who got a lot of help learning English at public school as a kid, I know firsthand that New Mexican students and schools will suffer from this kind of funding uncertainty.”

The letter calls on the Administration to comply with the law and disburse the funding allocated for:

Supporting Effective Instruction: These funds help schools recruit, train, and retain strong teachers and principals, especially in low-income and underserved areas. It also supports smaller class sizes and teacher mentorship — tools proven to boost student achievement.

English Language Acquisition: These funds help schools teach English to students who are still learning the language, while supporting their success in all subjects. It also helps schools expand evidence-based language instruction.

Student Support and Academic Enrichment Program: These funds provide programs that give students access to a well-rounded education, safe and healthy learning environments, and technology that boosts academic achievement and digital skills.

Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers: These funds support after-school and summer programs that help students in high-poverty, low-performing schools catch up in reading and math, explore hands-on learning activities, and access support outside the classroom.

Migrant Education: These funds support migratory children in reaching challenging academic standards and graduating from high school.

Adult Basic and Literacy Education State Grants: This funding helps adults earn a diploma, improve workplace skills, and prepare for high-demand careers.

""This affects Albuquerque Public Schools and the services we can provide to our students who need it most. APS receives close to $11.8 million in Title II, Title III and Title IV funding and uses that money for everything from providing services to English language learners and newcomer students to paying for a number of positions, including resource teachers and some counselors and nurses. The decision to withhold that funding is forcing us to put a hold on all expenditures and notify employees while we look for reserves to help us as we plan for the upcoming school year,” said Daniel Manzano, Executive Director of Board Services and Government Affairs for Albuquerque Public Schools.

“We also use these funds to provide high-quality, standards-aligned training that strengthens instructional practices in literacy, mathematics, and other core content areas,” he added, “... all of which is vital as we work to improve academic outcomes for all our students.”

Vasquez is committed to holding the administration accountable and ensuring New Mexico schools receive the investments they are owed. He recently cosponsored the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act, which would restore over $9 million in funding for schools near federal forests that do not have access to the same amount of property tax revenue to support education that urban schools do. He also previously joined a letter opposing efforts to dismantle the Department of Education — all moves that would disproportionately harm students in rural, Tribal and underserved areas.

You can find the full text of the letter below or at the link here:

Secretary McMahon and Director Vought,

We write to request more information about your decision to illegally withhold nearly $7 billion dollars of funding for K-12 schools and adult education from states and local school districts around the country and to insist that this funding be immediately released. Without these funds, schools are facing difficult and unnecessary decisions on programs for students and teachers.

On June 30, 2025, just one day before these funds become available for obligation, the Department notified states that they would not receive these funds by July 1 and that “[g]iventhe change in Administrations, the Department is reviewing the FY 2025 funding … and decisions have not yet been made concerning submissions and awards for this upcoming academic year.” This late-breaking decision, which provided no timeline for which states can expect a final decision, is leaving states financially vulnerable and forcing many to make last minute decisions about how to proceed with K12 education in this upcoming school year. The education funding withheld by the Administration reflects resources provided by Congress that are designed to help schools with a variety of issues, including student learning and achievement, after-school programs, and teacher training. Additionally, education funding provided by Congress to help with adult education and literacy is also being withheld.

This unnecessary delay of education funding, which accounts for at least 10 percent of federal K-12 funding in every state, is alarming parents, local elected officials, and education agencies. It is disrupting school and district planning, jeopardizing the education of millions of students, and is already resulting in layoffs as well as program delays and cancellations. Further, it is causing concern to adult education programs that are faced with similar decisions without immediate access to expected funding.

Accordingly, please provide responses to the following questions no later than July 15, 2025.

When will the Administration finish its review and release the funding provided by Congress to states to use for the school year beginning next month?

Has the Administration done any outreach or offered any sort of support for state and local education agencies to assist them and their partners in navigating this period of uncertainty?

If the Administration knew it wanted to review these funds, why didn’t this review start earlier in the year? Was the review or the timely release of funds affected by the lack of staff at the Department, which is a direct result of the reductions in force (RIFs) executed by the Administration?

There is no legitimate reason why any review of these programs should prevent the Administration from fulfilling its responsibility to the American people on time. No more excuses – follow the law and release the funding meant for our schools, teachers, and families.

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing these dollars allocated immediately.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-demands-action-delayed-army-funding-modernize-housing-white-sands,Rep. Vasquez Demands Action on Delayed Army Funding to Modernize Housing at White Sands Missile Range,2025-07-11,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Army Secretary Driscoll and Army Installation Management Command urging the Department to disperse $7 million dollars to make much needed improvements to housing infrastructure for our active duty military members that live and work at White Sands Missile Range. The funding was expected last summer but remains undelivered, despite assurance that these funds would be dispersed soon from General Mingus at a House Armed Services Committee hearing in May.

“Service members at White Sands train tirelessly, work hard, and selflessly serve their country while living in outdated housing that is decades past its prime,” said Vasquez. “The Department of Defense must make sure our service members have a much better standard of living if we are to reach our peak readiness potential. Further delays to modernize on-base housing – funding that has long been promised – continues to hurt morale and shortchanges our military’s most important asset: its soldiers.

White Sands Missile Range is the premier site for weapons development and testing. Many of its housing units were built shortly after the end of World War II and require urgent and extensive improvements. Many rural bases, like White Sands Missile Range, are often overlooked and face more red tape for infrastructure improvements compared to larger bases located in urban areas.

This letter calls on the U.S. Army to take action and immediately disperse these funds to begin upgrades to the housing on base to ensure service members and their families have safe, comfortable living arrangements. Additionally, it requests that the U.S. Army provides Vasquez with a brief on the status of these funds no later than August 1, 2025.

Rep. Vasquez is committed to honoring the heroes that protect our nation by securing federal resources that enhance both the operational strength of New Mexico’s military installations and the quality of life for service members and their families.

You can find the full text of the letter below:

Dear Secretary Driscoll and Lieutenant General Jones,

I write to you urging the Army’s Installation Management Command (IMCOM) to immediately disperse delayed funds to improve the quality of on-base housing at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). WSMR and Fort Bliss were scheduled to receive approximately $7 million in the summer of 2024 for housing modernization, but that funding never materialized. On May 6th, 2025 General Mingus testified in the House Armed Services Committee that WSMR would “see movement on [the funding] shortly” - it has been nine weeks since General Mingus’ testimony and WSMR has still not received their funding.

WSMR is the Department of Defense’s (DOD) premier research, development, test, and evaluation (RDTE) site. DOD is reliant on WSMR to develop and test new weapons systems that prepare us for the challenges of tomorrow, but the success of this testing ecosystem falls on the shoulders of the service members who live and work on base. Despite working and living in aging and run-down infrastructure decades past its intended service life, the personnel at WSMR continue to do a world-class job in service to our nation.

It’s no secret that DOD has a housing quality issue, and unfortunately rural installations like WSMR are often the most delayed and overlooked. With many of the buildings at WSMR constructed in the years following World War II, much of the legacy housing on-base is outdated and needs significant upgrades. When service members and their families don’t have a safe or comfortable place to rest their heads at night, they can’t accomplish their mission - and that jeopardizes our readiness and national security.

Given DOD’s significant reliance on WSMR for their RDTE, I am concerned about the delay in disbursement of funds from IMCOM to upgrade legacy housing and the impact that is having on our readiness. Following the assurance from General Mingus that we can expect that funding shortly, I request the Army take actions to make this funding immediately available to WSMR and to provide me with a briefing on the status of this funding no later than August 1st, 2025.

Thank you again for your service and for your attention to this important matter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-and-new-mexico-delegation-help-unlock-federal-funds-support,Rep. Gabe Vasquez and New Mexico Delegation Help Unlock Federal Funds to Support Ongoing Ruidoso Flood Response,2025-07-10,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 10, 2025, President Trump granted a Direct Federal Assistance emergency declaration for Ruidoso, providing critical federal resources to help the community recover and rebuild after major flooding on Tuesday. This federal emergency declaration comes after U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and all members of New Mexico’s Congressional delegation joined Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in urging the President to declare the Ruidoso flooding a federal emergency.

“The impacts of this historic flood require federal resources for adequate recovery and ongoing mitigation efforts, there’s no other way around it,” said Vasquez. “Working with local, state and federal officials, we successfully unlocked crucial disaster funding to address the immediate needs of recovery operations. I will continue to work closely with my colleagues and the Governor to ensure the best and most efficient use of these funds and ensure New Mexicans who were impacted are taken care of.”

At a press conference this morning, emergency management personnel on the ground said there was a possibility of additional rains and flooding in the Ruidoso area on Saturday, July 12, and that they would continue to monitor the situation and provide timely updates to the public.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-introduces-standalone-legislation-ahead-ndaa-prioritize-new-mexico,Vasquez Introduces Standalone Legislation Ahead of NDAA to Prioritize New Mexico Communities,2025-07-08,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced two standalone bills to address critical healthcare gaps affecting military families and deliver recognition to New Mexico’s Downwinders. The bills, which have been introduced ahead of the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) markup, reflect Rep. Vasquez’s continued push to ensure New Mexico communities are prioritized in national defense policy.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I’m fighting for New Mexico’s interests and fair share of funding in the nation’s defense bill,” said Vasquez. “My proposals recognize the families who have suffered in silence from the impacts of the Trinity Test, and also ensure military families at White Sands and Holloman Air Force Base don’t have to pay out of pocket to access health care. With significant cuts to staffing and research across the state’s research and testing facilities, Congress must recognize the impact our state has to national defense and support these common sense amendments.”

The two bills include:

The TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, which reduces the travel reimbursement threshold under TRICARE Prime from 100 miles to 50 miles for active-duty servicemembers and their families. Currently, families stationed at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base who travel nearly 100 miles to El Paso for medical care are denied reimbursement due to being just under the threshold. This bill would ensure fairness for military families serving in remote areas.

The Downwinder Commemoration Act, which directs the Departments of Defense and Interior to place commemorative plaques in publicly accessible areas at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base. These plaques will recognize the harm endured by New Mexico’s Downwinders following the 1945 Trinity Test — the first nuclear detonation in U.S. history. Despite their exposure to radioactive fallout, Downwinder families were excluded from the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) until Rep. Vasquez’s successful push to reauthorize and expand RECA to include New Mexico’s Downwinders. This bill helps deliver long-overdue recognition by permanently commemorating their suffering while preserving their legacy for future generations.

By introducing these bills independently, Rep. Vasquez is working to ensure these local priorities are protected as the NDAA advances through the legislative process.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/bipartisan-southwest-caucus-co-chairs-vasquez-and-ciscomani-introduce,Bipartisan Southwest Caucus Co-Chairs Vasquez and Ciscomani Introduce Legislation to Boost Economic Development in Border Communities,2025-07-07,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02) and Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ-06), Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Southwest Caucus, announced the reintroduction of the Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act—a bipartisan bill that would direct the Department of Commerce to develop a national strategy for strengthening economies along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The legislation recognizes the critical role border communities play in facilitating international trade, agriculture, and tourism, and aims to ensure they receive the federal investment they need to thrive.

“Our border communities are economic engines for our entire nation, but too often, they’re treated as an afterthought by Washington,” said Vasquez. “This bill ensures we take a serious, strategic approach to growing good-paying jobs, expanding infrastructure, and investing in the long-term success of our border towns. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort with Congressman Ciscomani to bring long-overdue opportunity to the communities that drive so much of our country’s trade and prosperity.”

“Our border communities are vital to the economic success of our country,” said Ciscomani. “In order to continue driving our economy forward, we must ensure that border communities have the tools, resources, and support they need to continue growing. This legislation is a commonsense effort aimed at increasing jobs in key sectors including trade, manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture. I am proud to join Rep. Gabe Vasquez on this bipartisan solution to deliver real results for border communities in Arizona and across the southwest.”

The Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act requires the Department of Commerce to work with federal partners—including USDA, HUD, and DOT—to build a national strategy focused on:

Growing jobs in logistics, international trade, manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture

Improving vocational and workforce training

Lowering the cost of exports and imports

Coordinating infrastructure investments and economic development programs across federal agencies

Under the bill, the Department of Commerce must deliver its strategy to Congress within one year of enactment. The strategy will include assessments of tax and investment incentives, regulatory recommendations, and a roadmap for better coordination between federal agencies and local stakeholders.

“Thank you, Congressman Vasquez and Congressman Ciscomani, for your leadership on behalf of border communities such as Santa Teresa. This bipartisan bill will bring much needed investments to the communities responsible for cross-border trade and will support countless good-paying jobs in Southern New Mexico.” - Jerry Pacheco, President of the Border Industrial Association.

The Bipartisan Southwest Caucus continues to advocate for pragmatic, community-focused policies that address the unique needs of the border region while promoting safety, prosperity, and opportunity for all.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-immediate-action-delayed-education-grants-new-mexico,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Immediate Action on Delayed Education Grants in New Mexico,2025-07-07,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 26, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda E. McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought seeking immediate answers regarding delayed Grant Award Notifications (GANs) that jeopardize vital funding of key education programs in New Mexico.

The delays affect funding for the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP), which are administered by colleges, universities, and nonprofit organizations across the country, including the University of New Mexico (UNM), New Mexico State University (NMSU), and Northern New Mexico College (NNMC). These programs provide life-changing educational opportunities to students from migrant and seasonal farmworker families, helping them complete their high school education and pursue college degrees.

""If the executive branch continues to withhold this funding, hardworking New Mexican students will lose opportunities to build better lives through education, and teachers will lose their jobs,"" said Vasquez. ""These students are our state's future, and we can't afford to let them down.""

HEP helps students who have dropped out of high school earn their High School Equivalency Credential and serves more than 6,000 students annually across the country. CAMP supports approximately 2,400 students nationwide each year in their first year of college with academic, financial, and personal assistance. Nearly three-quarters of CAMP participants go on to graduate with a bachelor’s degree, making it one of the most effective support programs of its kind.

In the letter, Vasquez called on Secretary McMahon and Director Vought to provide information on the following:

When the Department expects to issue GANs for HEP and CAMP grantees

The cause of the delay in issuing GANs and the steps the Department is taking to resolve it

Whether the Department will commit to allowing no-cost extensions for programs currently operating without funding certainty

Rep. Vasquez continues to press for transparency and timely action to ensure New Mexican students are not left behind.

Full text of the letter can be found below:

Dear Secretary McMahon and Director Vought:

We write to express our deep concern about the delay in issuing Grant Award Notifications (GANs) for the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). As of today, the Department of Education has not released GANs for Fiscal Year 2025, despite Congress having already authorized and appropriated funding for these critical programs. We urge that you remedy this situation as quickly as possible, not only to support these students but also the teachers and universities that support them.

Each of our offices has met with current and former students about the importance and impact of the HEP and CAMP. Hearing their stories highlighted how these programs provide life-changing educational opportunities to students from migrant and seasonal farmworker families, helping them complete their high school education and pursue college degrees. These programs were designed to support some of the hardest-working and most underserved students in our communities, and they have a proven track record of success. Nearly three-quarters of CAMP participants go on to earn a bachelor’s degree.

In New Mexico, the University of New Mexico (UNM), New Mexico State University (NMSU), and Northern New Mexico College (NNMC) utilize HEP and CAMP funding to support students who are first-generation college students, many of whom are the children of farmworkers. At UNM, these programs have been operating for over two decades - CAMP since 2001 and HEP since 2002. They support over 100 students annually and provide employment to 8 full-time staff and 10-12 student workers. At NMSU, HEP and CAMP programs also serve a vital student population and support approximately 124 students, 5 full-time staff, and 20 student workers each year. NNMC has 5 full-time staff who serve 30 first-year college students, along with 11 student workers who keep the program running.

Without immediate action from the Department, all three institutions will face serious disruptions in service and potential staffing cuts. These programs cannot operate without knowledge of their FY25 funding. Timely notice of continued funding is critical - not just for budgeting and staffing, but for student outreach and program continuity. Delays will harm the very students these programs are meant to empower.

We respectfully request answers to the following questions no later than June 27, 2025:

When does the Department expect to issue GANs for HEP and CAMP grantees?

What is causing the delay in GAN issuance, and how is the Department addressing it?

Will the Department commit to allowing no-cost extensions for programs that are currently operating without funding certainty?

We urge you to prioritize the timely release of GANs for HEP and CAMP. These programs serve students who have overcome enormous barriers, and they deserve better than silence and uncertainty from the very agency that is supposed to support them.

Sincerely,

Gabe Vasquez

Member of Congress

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-how-republicans-big-ugly-bill-hurts-new-mexico,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on How Republicans’ Big, Ugly Bill Hurts New Mexico",2025-07-03,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) issued the following statement in response to the passage of the Republican reconciliation bill, which slashes programs that support working families, children, seniors, and rural communities across New Mexico in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires.

“Republicans just chose to pass a bill that will make life harder and more expensive for the American people. They chose the billionaire class over the working class. The pain this will cause will echo for generations,” said Vasquez. “When millions lose their health care, local hospitals close, utility bills skyrocket, and kids are left hungry, New Mexicans will remember today as the day Republicans sold them out to billionaires.”

What this bill means for NM-02:

Over 110,000 New Mexicans at Risk of Losing Health Care : This Republican bill will cut support for Medicaid, jeopardizing benefits for more than 110,000 patients across New Mexico – 40,000 of those in Rep. Vasquez’s district.

Eight Rural Hospitals Serving Residents of NM-02 at Risk of Closing: Carlsbad Medical Center, Socorro General Hospital, Mimbres Memorial Hospital, Covenant Health Hobbs Hospital, Lincoln County Medical Center, and three other nearby hospitals that serve residents of Rep. Vasquez’s district are at risk of having to reduce services or close their doors completely due to health care provisions in the Big Ugly Bill. Expectant mothers in Hatch will go without critical prenatal support, grandparents in Silver City will lose access to long-term care, and kids in Hobbs will need to travel farther for emergency surgeries.

More Kids Will Go Hungry: Republicans have chosen to slash $180 billion from SNAP and nutrition assistance benefits, meaning over 175,000 New Mexicans could lose access to vital food assistance programs as a result.

Utility Bills to Soar by 25% Annually: The cuts to clean energy tax credits imposed by this bill could force New Mexicans to pay more than $500 more per year to keep the lights on.

Supporters of the bill say it will usher America into an age of fiscal responsibility, but it won’t. It will increase the national debt by as much as $5 trillion dollars to fund tax cuts to the wealthy.

Additional Republican priorities at the expense of New Mexicans’ health care:

Special tax exemptions for whaling-boat captains

Tax exemptions to purchase firearm silencers

Spending $85 million for a pet project to move Space Shuttle Discovery to Texas

An unreasonable tax increase for poker players, legal sports bettors, and casino patrons

Rescinds tax credit for lowering air pollution near schools

As a first-generation Mexican-American who was raised along the border, Rep. Vasquez knows firsthand how these cuts will make life harder for working class people across New Mexico as they try to make ends meet each month. He will continue to advocate for a fair economy and government that works for everyone — not just the ultra-wealthy.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-secures-key-chc-endorsement-immigration-oversight-bill,Vasquez Secures Key CHC Endorsement for Immigration Oversight Bill,2025-07-03,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced the endorsement of H.R. 3473, the Humane Accountability Act, by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), strengthening support for legislation that aims to bring transparency, oversight, and accountability to the U.S. immigration system.

“I’m proud to have the support of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus behind this important legislation,” said Vasquez. “For families in southern New Mexico, immigration isn’t a talking point — it’s personal. Our communities believe in safety, fairness, and treating every person with dignity. The Humane Accountability Act ensures no one, especially not the American government, can operate in the shadows, and it holds those in power accountable when immigrant detainees’ basic rights are violated.”

Vasquez re-introduced the bill, which was previously introduced in the 118th Congress, earlier this year with key updates. The new version of the bill is endorsed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) as well as the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) and garnered broad support from leading New Mexico-based civil rights and immigration organizations, including the Center for Civic Policy, El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, and NM Comunidades en Acción y de Fe.

The legislation includes three new provisions to address growing immigration concerns:

Transparency on Detention and Removal: DHS would be required to provide Congress with specific data on all encounters, detentions, and removals that have occurred since January, including the legal authority for removals and any transfers to detention centers located outside the territorial U.S.

Oversight of Detention Conditions: The bill mandates comprehensive reporting on abuses, deaths, injuries, lack of legal access, enforcement in sensitive locations, and the whereabouts of individuals in custody.

Notification for Non-Traditional Detention Sites: DHS would be required to notify Congress before using any non-traditional site, such as military installations, Tribal lands, or locations outside the territorial lands, for immigrant detention.

As an advocate for border security and immigration policy that respects constitutional rights and reflects the values of border communities, Vasquez reaffirmed his commitment to working with federal and local officials to increase transparency, ensure humane treatment in detention, and protect due process for all individuals regardless of immigration status.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-champions-bill-stop-federal-taxes-tips,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions Bill to Stop Federal Taxes on Tips,2025-07-02,2025,2025-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored H.R. 1314, the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Act to permanently eliminate federal income taxes on tips and end the sub-minimum wage for tipped workers.

“This bill is about justice, dignity, and economic fairness for the workers who keep our restaurants, hotels, and service industries running,” said Vasquez. “No one working a full-time job should be stuck with a $2.13 wage or taxed on the tips they rely on to make ends meet. This legislation puts more money back in the pockets of hardworking New Mexicans and ensures no one is left behind in today’s economy.”

The TIPS Act would exempt tipped income from federal income tax for workers earning under $112,500 annually and end the federal tipped minimum wage, currently set at just $2.13 an hour. Nearly six million Americans rely on tips to pay the bills, with many earning less than $37,000 a year.

The TIPS Act permanently protects Americans’ tips income from federal taxation. By contrast, the no tax on tips provisions in the Big Ugly Big exempt taxes on tips for only four years – while cutting health care benefits for millions to pay for permanent tax breaks for the wealthy.

Rep. Vasquez remains committed to lowering costs and delivering real results for New Mexico’s working families. He previously introduced a package of tax bills to benefit the middle class, address rising costs, and incentives businesses to hire veterans.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T14:40:33Z