Legislative News

It’s a Wrap: 2023 Legislative Session Recap

Hello GAAR Family,
Success in the New Mexico legislative process is defined by one’s perspective on any given issue. The definition that seems to fit the best for any trade association could most simply be characterized as an outcome which represents and supports the value system of their members and, ultimately, the clients they serve. 
 
The 2023 Legislative session began with what looked like an all-out assault on property owners with little or no regard for their value in providing housing opportunities in communities across our state. Through the collaborative efforts of many industry partners like AANM, CARNM, GAAR, NMAR, LCAR, NAR, AGC, HBANM, HBCNM, RECPAC, NARPM, NAIOP and others, we were able to establish dialogue with legislators and offer a more thoughtful approach to challenges we face, as well as getting to the root cause of the housing challenge which is shifting the balance of supply and demand.

In short, we focused on adding much needed inventory of housing for all. We look forward to continuing this conversation with legislators in the coming months, as we partner to find innovative and effective ways to accomplish our mutual goals.
 
Thanks to your support and advocacy for our industry and the housing rights of New Mexico families, we saw passage of several bills we supported and the failure of many we did not. Importantly, in a major victory for all New Mexicans, all rent control measures—which would exacerbate the current housing crisis, harm renters, and discourage development and economic growth—failed.
 
Below is a recap of the major bills and the position adopted by the NMAR Legislative Committee.

Passed Legislation:
HJR 5 - Extend Veteran Property Tax Exemption, CA – SUPPORT
HJR 6 - Increase Veteran Property Tax Exemption, CA – SUPPORT
SB 133 - Catalytic Converter Sales Records – SUPPORT
SB 139 - Services for Homeless People – SUPPORT
SB 140 - NM Housing Trust Fund – SUPPORT
SB 141 - Santa Fe Homeless Shelter & Programming – SUPPORT
SB 381 – NM Housing Trust Fund Bonding – SUPPORT
SB 495 - Affordable Housing Act Oversight – SUPPORT

Failed Legislation:
HB 6 - Housing and Rent Changes – OPPOSE
HB 241 – Construction of Certain Dwelling Units – OPPOSE
HJR 4 - Environmental Rights Act, CA – OPPOSE
SB 99 - Rent Control Prohibitions – OPPOSE
SB 298 - Mobile Home Park Act Changes – OPPOSE
SB 333 - Multigenerational Housing and Zoning – OPPOSE
SB 375 - Rent Control and Air Conditioning – OPPOSE
SB 411 – Housing & Rent Changes – OPPOSE
SB 449 - Real Estate Agent Contract Act – OPPOSE
SJR 6 - Environmental Rights, CA – OPPOSE
SJR 8 - Foreign Nation-Owned Property Taxes, CA – OPPOSE

For a full list of legislation we monitored during the session, click here.

While we celebrate these legislative victories, we know there is still work to be done to support the rights of renters, property owners, and all seeking housing in New Mexico. We are committed to working collaboratively to address our housing shortage through actionable and sustainable efforts that address the supply and demand issue we are facing.

We encourage you to stay aware and when possible add your voice to those who have chosen to be “The Voice For Real Estate” in New Mexico.

If you have any questions, please send them to me at Kent@GAAR.com.

Best,
 
Kent Cravens, RCE, CMLX2
Chief Executive Officer / Government Affairs Director
Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS®

American Black Bear

 
Join us in celebrating the incredible place we all live, work, and play—the Land of Enchantment. As we keep you informed throughout the session, we invite you to brush up on our state’s history and culture with the help of the Secretary of State’s New Mexico Blue Book.  

This week, we’re celebrating local wildlife and the State Mammal, the American Black Bear. Adopted by the legislature as the state mammal in 1963, the American Black Bear or Oso Negro can weigh over 400 pounds and is frequently seen around the wooded areas across the state.

In addition to being the state mammal, the animal is utilized in the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish symbol. Additionally, Smokey Bear—originally found near Capitan, New Mexico—is not only a well-known symbol of the U.S. Forest Service but is also the most famous American Black Bear and an iconic piece of New Mexico history.