LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: BILL TO MAKE NM CARBON-FREE HEADS TO GOV

SANTA FE (KSMX) – A plan to make New Mexico carbon-free by 2045 is heading to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s desk. The state senate passed the legislation to transition from traditional energy such as fossil fuel and coal to wind, solar and other alternative sources. Republicans warn it would cost upwards of $40 million in jobs every year, as well as over $800 million in higher electric costs. The legislation is believed to be among the strongest in the country. Another bill headed to the governor is one that would ban coyote killing contests. The House voted 37-30 yesterday to endorse the bill. Throughout the session, Ranchers and outfitters across the state have argued over the years that the contests are a tool for managing packs of coyotes that may threaten livestock. Opponents say that the practice is barbaric and ineffective. The bill, if passed, would make it a misdemeanor crime to organize a contest, with participation being a petty misdemeanor.