New Mexico Legislature in pictures
Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, packs up her stuff in the last minutes of the legislative session, Saturday, March 18, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this March 18 photo, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
smiles during a news conference at the end of a 60-day legislative session in New Mexico. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, talks with Sen. Harold Pope Jr. following a news conference March 18 about what got accomplished during the legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this March 18 photo, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham smiles during a news conference at the end of a 60-day legislative session in New Mexico. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, packs up her stuff in the last minutes of the legislative session, Saturday, March 18, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, and other Representatives are greeted by advocates after SB13, a bill to protect abortions providers in New Mexico from out-of-state liability, was passed in the House, Friday, March 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, left, and Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, are greeted by advocates after SB13, a bill to protect abortions providers in New Mexico from out-of-state liability, was passed in the House, Friday, March 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Nayomi Valdez, left, and Lena Weber Salazar, second from left, both with the ACLU, Kayla Herring, center, with Plan Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, Marshall Martinez, right, with Equality New Mexico, and other advocates celebrate after SB13, a bill to protect abortions providers in New Mexico from out-of-state liability, was passed in the House, Friday, March 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Jason Harper, R-Rio Rancho, Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, D-Mesilla, Sen. Benny Shendo Jr., D-Jemez Pueblo, and Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, from left, discuss the finer points of tax policy during a Friday conference committee meeting at the Roundhouse. The legislators were among those assigned to hammer out a compromise on a massive tax package before the 60-day legislative session ends Saturday at noon. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
Chaune Mountainsong Rael-Whisitt, from Picuris Pueblo, was among a group of mostly Native American women, who held a rally calling for the Governor and other state officials to reject James Mountain as Secretary of Indian Affairs. This was in the Roundhouse of the State Capitol Friday, March 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Katherine Benally, from Yatahey, with Dine Saani for Justice, speaks to a group of mostly Native American women, who held a rally calling for the Governor and other state officials to reject James Mountain as Secretary of Indian Affairs. This was in the Roundhouse of the State Capitol Friday, March 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, left, and Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr., D-Jemez Pueblo, shake hands after a conference committee to work out their differences on the details of a package of tax bills, Thursday, March 16, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, left, and Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr., D-Jemez Pueblo, along with 4 other legislators hold a conference committee to work out their differences on the details of a package of tax bills, Thursday, March 16, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Lan Sena, center, with the Center for Civic Policy, hugs Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, with Sen. Carrie Hamblen, D-Las Cruces, left, Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Espanola, behind her, and Rep. Christine Chandler, D-Los Alamos, right, after a news conference where legislators vowed to keep pushing for a paid family leave program. This was in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Thursday, March 16, 2023. The legislation to create a paid family leave program was stopped in a House committee this year. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Wanda Morrison, from Santa Fe, with AARP, along with other advocates, stand with Rep. Christine Chandler, D-Los Alamos, right, and other legislators as they vow to keep pushing for a paid family leave program. This was in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Thursday, March 16, 2023. The legislation to create a paid family leave program was stopped in a House committee this year. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Christine Chandler, D-Los Alamos, left, and Sen. Pres. Pro Tem. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, talk before a news conference where legislators vowed to keep pushing for a paid family leave program. This was in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Thursday, March 16, 2023. The legislation to create a paid family leave program was stopped in a House committee this year. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Andres Casados, 14, and a group of 7th and 8th graders from schools in Eagles Nest and Cimarron, perform in the Rotunda of the State Capitol, Tuesday, March 14, 2023. With the legislature in the final days there are fewer activities in the Rotunda. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Sen. Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr. D-Jemez Pueblo, and Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, listen to analyst talk about how much money from an alcohol tax would go to treatment. This is during the discussion of a tax package in the Senate Tax, Business and Transportation committee meeting at the Roundhouse, Wednesday, March 15, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Public Education Sec. Arsenio Romero, center, standing with his wife Amber and Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, thanks the Senate after being confirmed Wednesday, March 15, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Vanessa Sawyer, left, grandmother of Bennie Hargrove, a student who was shot and killed at Washington Middle School in Albuquerque, along with Bennie's 2 sisters Zaneya Alzubidi, 7, and Nevaeh Robbins, 11, watch Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, sign HB 9, a law that will allow gun owners to be held criminally responsible if their fire arm is involved in a crime by a minor and the gun was not properly stored. The bill is being sign into law in the Governor’s Office, Tuesday, March 14, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham leaves a Governor's Office cabinet room after a news conference this week with Senate Democratic floor leader Peter Wirth of Santa Fe and Senate Republican floor leader Gregory Baca of Belen. The governor has vetoed a bill that would have created a task force to study dual credit education. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
From left, Senate Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Senate Min. Leader Gregory Baca, R-Belen, hold a news conference to talk about a compromise legislation to deal with medical malpractice in the state. The news conference was held in the Governor's Office, Tuesday, March 14, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Around 50 people from Crossroads for Women, Bold Futures and the ACLU New Mexico come togather for a chant in the Rotunda or the Roundhouse, Monday, March 13, 2023. They were at the State Capitol to talk to legislators and show their support for bills to reform the criminal justice system. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this file photo, Abby Long, center, and Vanessa Hulliger, both from Albuquerque, talk to Rep. Harlan Vincent, R-Glencoe, about the second chance bill, to ban all sentences of life without parole for juveniles. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Tracy McDaniel, right, policy advocate for the Southwest Women's Law Center, hugs Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, after the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee votes to table a bill that would create a paid family leave program. Photo shot at the Roundhouse, Monday, March 13, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Tracy McDaniel, left, policy advocate for the Southwest Women's Law Center, and Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, react as the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee votes to table a bill that would create a paid family leave program. Photo shot at the Roundhouse, Monday, March 13, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Alisa Lauer, with the House Leadership Office, Lindsey Bachman, director of Legislative and Executive Affairs for the Secretary of State's Office, Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, and House Maj. Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, talk during debate on concurrence to Senate changes on a bill to change voting laws. This is on the House Floor of the Roundhouse, Monday, March 13, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
lan Brauer and Archer Strickland, 16, from Siembra Leadership High School, plant snap peas at the Indigenous Farm Hub in Corrales on Friday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Cam Reed, 15, from Siembra Leadership High School, plants white onions at Indigenous Farm Hub in Corrales, Friday, March 10, 2023. The farm grows produce for 2 local schools, but if a bill back by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is passed by the legislature, they will expand the number of schools they supply. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Graham Replogle, 16, Gabriela Carrillo, 15, and Cam Reed, 15, all from Siembra Leadership High School, plant white onions at Indigenous Farm Hub in Corrales, Friday, March 10, 2023. The farm grows produce for 2 local schools, but if a bill back by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is passed by the legislature, they will expand the number of schools they supply. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Alan Brauer and Archer Strickland, 16, from Siembra Leadership High School, spread drip tape across a field where they are planting snap peas at Indigenous Farm Hub in Corrales, Friday, March 10, 2023. The farm grows produce for 2 local schools, but if a bill back by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is passed by the legislature, they will expand the number of schools they supply. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Lenny Roybal reacts as the House passed HB 510, a bill that if passed and signed into law, will make his song "Red or Green" the official State Chile Song. The bill still has to get through the Senate in the final days of the session before going to the Governor's Office. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, center, and Rep. Yanira Gurrola, D-Albuquerque, right, talk before the start of the House floor session, Thursday, March 9, 2023. Serrato, along with several other Representatives, are sponsoring a bill to extend the length of the 30 day legislative sessions and to pay legislators. Rep. Tara Lujan, D-Santa Fe, left, works at her desk. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Joy Garratt, D-Albuquerque, left, and Rep. Debra Sarinana, D-Albuquerque, talk before the start of the House floor session, Thursday, March 9, 2023. Garratt and Sarinana are co-sponsoring, with several other Representatives, a bill to extend the length of the 30 day legislative sessions and to pay legislators. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill, D-Silver City, speaks during a rally in the Rotunda for New Mexico Historical Women Markers, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan and other women leaders spoke at the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Karen Abraham, former head of student activities at UNM, greets House Maj. Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, during a rally in the Rotunda for New Mexico Historical Women Markers, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other leaders who are women spoke at the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Former New Mexico Attorney General Gary King looks through the items and photos on display during a rally in the Rotunda for New Mexico Historical Women Markers, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other leaders who are women spoke at the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Kathlene Ritch and a choir from the New Mexico School for the Arts perform during a rally in the Rotunda for New Mexico Historical Women Markers, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other leaders who are women spoke at the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks during a rally in the Rotunda for New Mexico Historical Women Markers, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Around 60 people attended the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gabriella Cravens, a Sign Language interpreter with the Albuquerque Sign Language Academy, and a group of students from the school, wait for the start of the House morning floor session, in Santa Fe, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. The school was being recognized and a proclamation read during ASLA Day at the Capitol. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, right, hugs Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver after HB4, a bill to change voting laws in the state, was passed on the Senate Floor, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Adrian Avila, chief of staff for the Senate Finance Committee, Legislative Fianace Committee Deputy Director Charles Sallee, and LFC Director David Abbey answer questions about the state spending bill in the Senate Finance Committee, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. George Munoz, D-Gallup, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, asks questions about the state spending bill, Wednesday, March 8, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Joy Garratt, D-Albuquerque, talks with House Maj. Whip Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, on the House Floor before the start of the morning floor session, in Santa Fe, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Garratt is sponsoring a bill to increases the minimum number of school days. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Joy Garratt, D-Albuquerque, talks with Rep. G. Andres Romero, D-Albuquerque, on the House Floor before the start of the morning floor session, in Santa Fe, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Garratt and Romero are sponsoring a bill to increases the minimum number of school days. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, hugs Marshall Martinez, the executive director of Equality New Mexico, after the Senate voted 23-15 on Tuesday to approve a bill dealing with abortion and gender-affirming health care. The legislation, House Bill 7, was approved after a lengthy debate during which majority Democrats voted down a string of GOP-backed amendments. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
In this file photo, state Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, debates legislation on in the Senate chambers. She is a co-sponsor of a bill to raise the pay of statewide elected officials in New Mexico. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, debates against HB7, a bill to protect abortion rights and gender affirming care in all counties and cities in New Mexico, during a floor session in Senate, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Joseph Martinez, with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, wearing a costume of a bistahieversor sealey walks through the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Monday, March 6, 2023. This is part of Culture Day when all divisions of the Cultural Affairs Department come together at the State Capitol, Monday, March 6, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Amy Montoya, right, who works for the New Mexico Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, has her photo taken with Andrew Colwell, an educator at the New Mexico Museum of Space History, in Alamogordo, wearing a replica of the space suit Harrison Schmitt wore on the moon, and Joseph Martinez, with the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, wearing a costume of a bistahieversor sealey. This is part of Culture Day when all divisions of the Cultural Affairs Department come together at the State Capitol, Monday, March 6, 2023. Harrison Schitt was one of 2 astronauts from New Mexico to walk on the moon. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Joselynn Vidot grooms Teddy, one of the many small dogs at Wags, a dog daycare and grooming business in Santa Fe, Monday, March 6, 2023. A bill in the legislature, if passed, will reduce taxes on many New Mexico businesses. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, center, leaves a news conference behind former Cochiti Pueblo Gov. Regis Pecos, Monday, March 6, 2023. The news conference was held on a package of tax cuts and rebates that passed out of the House Taxation and Revenue committee. The bills now head to the House Floor. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Derrick Lente, D-Sandia Pueblo, holds a news conference with other Democrats on the House Tax and Revenue Committee, to talk about a package of tax cuts and rebates that passed out of the committee. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Father Jesse Robinson, from the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Santa Fe, gives the opening prayer at the start of the floor session in the Senate, Thursday, February 16, 2023. He is one of dozens of religious leader to perform the task during their year's legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rev. Talitha Arnold, from the United Church of Santa Fe, talks with Sen. Loe Jaramillo, D-Espanola, left, and Rev. Fr. Richard Iannucci, the chaplain for the New Mexico Senate, before giving the opening prayer, Thursday, March 2, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rev. Fr. Richard Iannucci, the Senate Chaplain, left, is bringing in over 40 different faith leaders to give the opening prayer in the Senate this year. Singh Sahib Krishna Singh Khalsa, with the Sikh communnity in Espanola, gave the opening prayer Wednesday, March 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rev. Fr. Richard Iannucci, the Senate Chaplain, left, is bringing in over 40 different faith leaders to give the opening prayer in the Senate this year. Singh Sahib Krishna Singh Khalsa, with the Sikh communnity in Espanola, came to the Senate to give the opening prayer Wednesday, March 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rev. Fr. Richard Iannucci, the Senate Chaplain, left, talks with Rev. Takako Terino, pastor at Jemez Springs Community Prebyterian Church, before the start of the floor session, Friday, February 24, 2023. Terino is one over 40 different faith leaders to give the opening prayer in the Senate this year. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rev. Fr. Richard Iannucci, left, the Senate Chaplain, introduces Maj. Thi Truong, center, the chaplain for the New Mexico National Guard, to the Senate Reader Harry Montoya before the start of the floor session, Friday, February 24, 2023. Troung is one dozens of faith leaders Iannucci has brought in to give the opening Prayer. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Alexander Largie, 9, left, Snow Cloud, 6, right, and students from the Dine duel language program at Eva B. Stokely Elementary School in Shiprock, perform durng a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the passing of bilingual multicultural legislation in the state, Friday, March 3, 2023. The Bilingual Multicultural Education Act of 1973 provides funding to local districts to implement bilingual, multicultural programs. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Zonnique Atenie, 6, and other students from the Dine duel language program at the Eva B. Stokely Elementary School in Shiprock, perform durng a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the passing of bilingual multicultural legislation in the state, Friday, March 3, 2023. The Bilingual Multicultural Education Act of 1973 provides funding to local districts to implement bilingual, multicultural programs. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Aidan Villa, 17, center, from Eldorado High School in Albuquerque, talks with Rep. Pamelya Herndon, D-Albuquerque, about HB432, a bill to ban single use plastic shopping bags, Friday, March 3, 2023. The senior government class at Eldorado got to meet with their representatives and senator in the Rotunda to talk to them about issues they are concerned with. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Members of the 35th Firefighters Cadet Class, for the City of Santa Fe, roll up a 50 foot and 36 foot U.S. Flag hang up from a ladder truck, Thursday, March 2, 2023. The flag was hanging outside the Roundhouse for a memorial for recognition of fallen firefighters. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
James Lamb, from Albuquerque, with the New Mexico Fire and Police Pipes and Drums, preforms in the Senate during the presentation of a memorial for recognition of Fallen Firefighters, Thursday, March 2, 2023. Several firefighter from around the state attended the memorial. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this file photo, Dr. Michael Bay, center, with Southwest Gastroenteroloy Associates, and dozens of other doctors and patients raise their hands in support of a bill to change the medical malpractice laws in New Mexico. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Martin Hickey, D-Albuquerque, center, with Sen. Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, behind him, and dozens of other doctors, including Dr. Mark Depper, right, with Xray Associates, present a bill to change the medical malpractice laws in New Mexico. This is in a Senate Tax, Business and Transportation Committee, Thursday, March 2, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Susan Herrera, D-Embudo, left, and Rep. Marian Matthews, D-Albuqueruqe, talk before the start of the evening floor session, Wednesday, March 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Pres. Pro Tem. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, right, talks with Sen. Bill Tallman, D-Albuquerque, after he was the only no vote on a bill to create a state school board and state education superintendent. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque journal)
Sinai Uvillado, 15, from RFK charter school in Albuquerque, and around 80 students and listen to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaking during a rally in support of gun legislation. The rally, Youth Gun Violence Awareness Day, is organized by New Mexicans Against Gun Violence and is being held in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 28, 2023.. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks during a rally in support of gun legislation in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 28, 2023. The rally, Youth Gun Violence Awareness Day, is organized by New Mexicans Against Gun Violence. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Cayden Cachucha, 5, from Dulce, and around 80 students and adults attend a rally in support of gun legislation in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 28, 2023. The guns in the foreground are guns purchased during a buyback and turned into flower vases by students from RFK charter school in Albuquerque and artist Pablo Rayes. The rally, Youth Gun Violence Awareness Day, is organized by New Mexicans Against Gun Violence. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
A bill that would require New Mexico motorists to affix front-end license plates, not just decorative plates like these shown on Tuesday in Santa Fe, was tabled Tuesday in a House committee. The bill marks the latest attempt to add New Mexico to list of 29 other states that require front and back license plates. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
In this file photo, doctors from Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Las Vegas sit in the Senate gallery to watch the chamber work. They have been a frequent presence at the Capitol this year, pushing for changes to the state's medical malpractice law. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Twenty-seven doctors from Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Las Vegas stand for the Pledge of Allegiance in the Senate gallery Saturday during the floor session. The doctors, members of the New Mexico Medical Society, visited the Capitol to speak to a legislative committee about Senate Bill 296 -- which would revise the state's medical malpractice law -- but it was postponed until Tuesday. They said they want to make sure the legislators are thinking about them during the remained of the session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Katy Duhigg, D-Albuquerque, right, with Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, left, and Lindsey Bachman, also with the S.O.S. Office, as an expert witnesses, presents SB180 on the floor, Saturday, February 25, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Ten members of YUCCA (Youth United for Climate Crisis Action), and No False Solutions Coalition hold a sit-in in the Governor's Office to protest the exclusion of climate justice legislation this session. They and other climate activist groups are at the State Capitol as part of Climate Justice Day, Thursday, February 23, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Yanira Gurrola, D-Albuquerque, speaks to a group of kid from several Santa Fe and Las Vegas schools that are part of Global Warming Express. They and other climate activist groups are at the State Capitol as part of Climate Justice Day, Thursday, February 23, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
A large panel of business leaders, union representatives, analyst and Sen. President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, right, tell members of the Senate Finance Committee about a bill to create a paid family leave program for the state. Photo shot Thursday, February 23, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, receives ashes at the State Capitol from Deacon Steve Rangel, from San Ysidro Catholic Church in Corrales. Legislators and staff, both Catholic and none Catholic, took part in the Ash Wednesday religious observance at the start of Lent. Photo shot Wednesday, February 22, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Espanola, receives ashes at the State Capitol from Deacon Steve Rangel, from San Ysidro Catholic Church in Corrales. Legislators and staff, both Catholic and none Catholic, took part in the Ash Wednesday observance at the start of Lent. Photo shot Wednesday, February 22, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan, left, talks with House Speaker Javier Martinez after a joint session of the House and Senate in the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. Lujan's father Ben Lujan was House Speaker for several years. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury gives an addressing to a joint session of the House and Senate in the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan gives an addressing to a joint session of the House and Senate in the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan hugs his mother Carmen Lujan after giving an addressing to a joint session of the House and Senate in the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan greets Sen. Pres. Pro Tem. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, and other Senators before addressing a joint session of the House and Senate in the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, House Min. Whip Greg Nibert, R-Roswell, House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, talk before the start of the floor session, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Ambrose Castellano, D-Serafina, talks with Rep. Linda Serrato, D-Santa Fe, before the start of the floor session, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Ann Maxwell and other members of the Zia Singers, a women's chorus group from Santa Fe, perform in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Tuesday, February 21, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Don Bovia, Paul J. Flores, Julian Jaramillo and other Masons from the Scottish Rite Center in Santa Fe sit in the House Gallery Friday, February 17, 2023. They are here for House Memorial 46 the Scotish Rite Center Day. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. John Block, R-Alamogordo, poses next to a life-size poster of President Donald Trump, in his office at the State Capitol, Friday, February 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Children, Youth and Families Secretary Barbara Vigil, left, listens to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham during a Thursday news conference. The governor announced a new executive order reorganizing CYFD, which has faced scrutiny in recent years for its handling of several high-profile child abuse cases. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
Sen. Crystal Diamond, R-Elephant Butte; Sen. David Gallegos, R-Eunice; and Sen. Greg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, hold a news conference Feb. 16 to talk about issues with CYFD and their bills to address problems with the agency,. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Rep. Joseph Sanchez, D-Acalde, House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, and Rep. Meredith Dixon talk before a news conference in the House Appropriations and Finance Committee room Thursday, February 16, 2023. Thursday is the halfway point of the 60 day legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
New Mexico FFA officers, from left, Micah Lightfoot, 18, from Logan, Jordan Hamill, 17, from Artesia, and Grady Hodnett, 19, from Las Cruces, sit on the Rostrum at the start of the House floor session, Thursday, February 16, 2023. This is part of FFA Day at the Legislature. Thursday is the halfway point of the 60 day legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, left, and Sen. Maj. Whip Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, talk before the start of the floor session, Thursday, February 16, 2023. Thursday is the halfway point of the 60 day legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Joseph Gavigan, a local actor, is turned into a satyr or faun by local special effects makeup artists Jon Shroyer, right, and Derek Herrera near the Rotunda of the State Capitol, Wednesday, February 15, 2023. This is part of Film Day and the Legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, and the Democratic members of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, hold a news conference to talk about the state spending bill they passed. Photo shot Thursday, February 16, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Legislative Finance Committee Director David Abbey, center, talks about the state budget Feb. 15 with Rep. Gail Armstrong, R-Magdalena, and Rep. Nathan Small, a Las Cruces Democrat and chairman of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee. Small said Abbey “led with prudence, thoughtfulness, and tenacity.” (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this Feb. 15 photo, Rep. Brian Baca, R-Los Lunas, and other lawmakers look through the proposed spending bill for the state before passing it in the House Appropriations and Finance Committee meeting. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman, right, and Sen. Linda Lopez, D-Albuqerque, listen as members of the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee debate a bill on rebuttable presumption for pretrial release Wednesday, February 15, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman talks with Sen. Antoinette Sedillo Lopez, D-Albuquerque before a Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee meeting to debate a bill on rebuttable presumption for pretrial detention Wednesday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Chuy Martinez and Oti Ruiz, perform as they lead Lt. Gov. Howie Morales and other members of the Senate to the House Chambers, Tuesday, February 14, 2023. This was for a joint session of the House and Senate for Hispanic Cultural Day. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Sen. Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, and Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero, D-Albuquerque, honor labor and civil rights activist Delores Huerta on the House floor, Tuesday, February 14, 2023. This was during a joint session of the House and Senate for Hispanic Cultural Day. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Leo Jaramillo, D-Espanola, takes a selfie with labor and civil rights activist Delores Huerta during a joint session of the House and Senate for Hispanic Cultural Day at the State Capitol, Tuesday, February 14, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Labor and civil rights activist Delores Huerta speaks a joint session of the House and Senate for Hispanic Cultural Day at the State Capitol, Tuesday, February 14, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rosalia Pacheco, from Albuquerque, performs La Llorona on the House floor, Tuesday, February 14, 2023. This was during a joint session of the House and Senate for Hispanic Cultural Day. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Carter Monjaras, 2 1/2, blows a duck call next to his dad Matthew Monjaras, from Tijeras, during a rally in the Rotunda for Camo and Capitol Day, Monday, February 13, 2023. Monjaras is with Impact Outdoors, a nonprofit who take youth and veterans into the outdoors for education, conservation, and meaningful outdoor opportunities. The event was organized by the New Mexico Wildlife Federation to help remind lawmakers of the importance of hunting and fishing in the state. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Brandon Staton, right, feeds Parker Monjaras, 3 months, next to his dad Matthew Monjaras, from Tijeras, during a rally in the Rotunda for Camo and Capitol Day, Monday, February 13, 2023. Monjaras is with Impact Outdoors, a nonprofit who take youth and veterans into the outdoors for education, conservation, and meaningful outdoor opportunities. The event was organized by the New Mexico Wildlife Federation to help remind lawmakers of the importance of hunting and fishing in the state. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
People make their way through a snow storm as they leave the State Capitol, Monday, February 13, 2023. Occasional snow storms are expected over the next couple days. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
People make their way through a snow storm as they leave the State Capitol, Monday, February 13, 2023. Occasional snow storms are expected over the next couple days. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., honors former state Rep. J. Paul Taylor, who recently died at age 102, at the start of his remarks to a joint session of the New Mexico House and Senate. Three members of the state’s congressional delegation gave speeches to lawmakers on Monday. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez is welcomed by Senators before making her remarks to a joint session of the House and Senate. Leger Fernandez, along with U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich and U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez spoke to the state lawmakers on the House Floor, Monday, February 13, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez makes remarks to a joint session of the House and Senate. Vasquez, along with U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich and U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, spoke to the state lawmakers on the House Floor, Monday, February 13, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Tom Perry, left, from Hobbs, Tonya Sims, center, from Las Cruces, and with Alpha Kappa Alpha Soroity Inc., and around a hundred people take part in a celebration of African American Day at the Legislature, Friday, February 10, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Biggy Andrew Mwithi, from Kenya and now Albuquerque, and around a hundred people take part in a celebration of African American Day at the Legislature, Friday, February 10, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Members of the black student union at Albuquerque Academy, from left, Kene Omyia, 16, Clinton Ellison, 15 Jamal Witter, 16 Kachi Onyia, 18, Emma Brundage, 16, and Lucy Lott, 17, listen to keynote speaker Lenell D. Walton, an educator from Albuquerque give the keynote address. This is during a joint session of the House and Senate for African American Day at the Legislature, Friday, February 10, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Pamelyn Herndon, D-Albuquerque, hugs Sandia High School senior Karina Padilla at the start of a news conference about a bill to hold gun owners criminally responsible if their gun is not properly stored and is involved in an accident or crime. Photo shot Thursday, February 9, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Vanessa Sawyer, left, grandmother of Bennie Hargrove, a student who was shot and killed at Washington Middle School in Albuquerque, and Sandia High School senior Karina Padilla talk before the start of a news conference about a bill to hold gun owners criminally responsible if their gun is not properly stored and is involved in an accident or crime. Photo shot Thursday, February 9, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Nicole Chavez, founder of ROBBED New Mexico, speaks during a memorial for homicide victims and survivors in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Thursday, February 9, 2023. Chavez's son, Jaydon Chavez-Silver, a Manzano High School student, was shot and killed in 2015. About 100 people gathered for the event to ask for legislation to control gun violence. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Ben Morales, from Ruidoso, wipes away tears as Attorney General Raul Torrez, left, speaks during a memorial for homicide victims and survivors in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Thursday, February 9, 2023. Morales' son Joseph Morales, a student at UNM, was shot and killed in November of 2021. About 100 people gathered for the event to ask for legislation to control gun violence. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr. D-Jemez Pueblo, and Sen. Carrie Hamblen, D-Las Cruces, listen to public comments against a bill to create payed family leave program in New Mexico. This is in the Senate Tax, Business and Transportation Committee at the State Capitol, Thursday, February 9, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Sen. Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, congratulates New Mexico Public Regulation Commissioners Patrick O'Connell, Gabriel Aguilera and James Ellison after they were confirmed in the Senate Wednesday, February 8, 2023. Behind them is Sen. Pres. Pro Temp. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Elaine Maestas speaks during a news conference by the ACLU outside the Roundhouse, Wednesday, February 8, 2023. Her sister Elisha Lucero was killed by a Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputy in 2019. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
New Mexico Public Regulation Commission nominees James Ellison, second from left, Patrick O'Connell, center, and Gabriel Aguilera, along with Caroline Buerkle, with the Governor's Office, sit in a Senate Rules Committee as the commissioners are being confirmed, Wednesday, February 8, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Stephani Lord, R-Sandia Park, right, talks with Curry County Sheriff Mike Reeves, right, and other law enforcement opposing a bill to create a 14 day waiting period to purchase firearms. Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, center, is sponsoring the bills. This is in the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee, Tuesday, February 7, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Miranda Viscoli, with New Mexicans Against Gun Violence, and Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, answer questions about a bill to create a 14 day waiting period to purchase guns. This is in the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee, Tuesday, February 7, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
San Juan County Sheriff Shane Ferrari, center, stands among Dale Perkins, left, from Albuquerque, and other opposing a bill to create a 14 day waiting period to purchase firearms. This is in the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee, Tuesday, February 7, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Natalie Figueroa, D-Albuquerque, works from her desk after the end of the floor session in the House, Monday, February 6, 2023. Figueroa and other legislators are working on legislation to modernize the New Mexico legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Elizabeth "Liz" Thompson, D-Albuquerque, is thanked by her expert witnesses, from left, Lila Quezada, 18, with Girls Inc. of Santa Fe, and Alexandria Taylor and Jess Clark, with New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs, after a bill to prevent sexual assault and misconduct passed the House, Monday, February 6, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Moises Candelaria, left, Victor Gonzales, right, and others from Los Lunas, cook carne adovada outside the Roundhouse as part of Valencia County Day at the Legislature, Monday, February 6, 2023. They provided the food for legislators first then anyone. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Miss Navajo Nation '22-'23 Valentina Clitso talks with Rep. Harry Garcia, D-Grants, before a joint session of the House and Senate, during American Indian Day at the Legislature, Friday, February 3, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Navajo President Buu Nygren addresses a joint session of the House and Senate, Friday, February 3, 2023. Nygren and other Native American leaders took part in the joint session and Michelle Lujan Grisham spoke at an event in the Rotunda to celebrate American Indian Day at the Legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, left, talks with Navajo President Buu Nygren at the end of a joint session of the House and Senate, Friday, February 3, 2023. Nygren and other Native American leaders took part in the joint session and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham spoke at an event in the Rotunda for American Indian Day at the Legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Navajo President Buu Nygren speaks during an event in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 3, 2023. Nygren, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Native American leaders took part in the celebration of American Indian Day at the Legislature. The events also included a join session of the House and Senate to hear from Nygren and other tribal leaders. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
James Mountain, from Pueblo de San Ildefonso, mc's an event in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse for American Indian Day at the Legislature, Friday, February 3, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham named Mountain the new secretary designate of the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Navajo President Buu Nygren waits to speak during an event in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 3, 2023. Nygren, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Native American leaders took part in the celebration of American Indian Day at the Legislature. Nygren later spoke at a joint session of the House and Senate. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Ms. Mescalero Apache Deandra Comanche, 20, listens to speakers during an event in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 3, 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Native American leaders took part in this celebration of American Indian Day at the Legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Mescalero Apache President Eddie Martinez, left, and Jicarilla Apache President Edward Velarde, sit as Pueblo Governor's are being honored in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Friday, February 3, 2023. This is part of American Indian Day at the Legislature. The event included Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. and a joint session of the House and Senate. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Marshall Martinez, center, executive director of Equality New Mexico, speaks in favor of HB7, a bill to prohibit cities and government agencies from discriminating against or interfering with abortion rights and gender-affirming care. This is in the House Health and Human Services Committee, in Santa Fe, Friday, February 3, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Marcela Diaz, director of Somos Un Pueblo Unido, organizes a group trying to get into a small committee room for to support HB188, Friday, February 3, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Leyana Tercero, 10, and other dancers with National Dance Institute in Santa Fe, perform for members of the New Mexico House of Representatives, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. The group, representing around 7,000 NDI dancers around the state performed for both the House and Senate. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Navin Gnanakaren, Leyana Tercero, Naomi Celote, all 10, and other dancers with National Dance Institute in Santa Fe, perform for members of the New Mexico House of Representatives, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. The group, representing around 7,000 NDI dancers around the state performed for both the House and Senate. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Navin Gnanakaren, 10, and other dancers with National Dance Institute in Santa Fe, perform for members of the New Mexico House of Representatives, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. The group, representing around 7,000 NDI dancers around the state performed for both the House and Senate. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Emma Vega, 10, Mikaela Spurgeon, 11, and Camila Valdez, 11, with Balle Encanto, a folkloric dance group from Silver City, get ready in a hallway to perform in the New Mexico Senate, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Former representative Kelly Fajardo talks with people on the House floor, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Min. Whip Greg Nibert, R-Roswell, talks with Rep. Maria Matthews, D-Albuquerque, on the House floor, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Jason Harper, R-Rio Rancho, talks with House Min. Whip Greg Nibert, R-Roswell, on the House floor, Wednesday, February 1, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Pete Campos, D-Las Vegas and Ali Rye, deputy secretary for programs at the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency, answer questions about a bill to help rebuild infrastructure destroyed by the Calf Canyon Hermit Peak Fire last year. They are in the Senate Finance Committee Wednesday, February 1, 2023.
Knuckles Malone, a registered therapy dog for Animal Protection New Mexico, attends a rally by his organization with his handler Sherry Mangold, in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 31, 2023. Knuckles Malone was rescued from a dog track in Tijuana, Mexico. He and others are at the State Capitol as part of Animal Protection New Mexico lobbying day. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Hailey Capitan, from Crownpoint and a student at the Santa Fe Indian School, looks at a rocket by the Atomic Aggies, a student organization at New Mexico State University. The rocket is at the Roundhouse for aerospace day at the legislature and Capitan is here since SFIS is also being honored. Phot shot Tuesday, January 31, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Susanna Espino, with El Centro in Albuquerque, takes part in an immigrants workers rally outside the Roundhouse, Monday, January 30, 2023. Around 300 people took part in the rally for immigrant rights. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Dalia Hernandez, center, with El Centro in Albuquerque, takes part in an immigrants workers rally outside the Roundhouse, Monday, January 30, 2023. Around 300 people took part in the rally for immigrant rights. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Carmen Monasterios, from Roswell, takes part in an immigrants workers rally outside the Roundhouse, Monday, January 30, 2023. Around 300 people took part in the rally for immigrant rights. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. President Pro Temp. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, takes a photo with former UNM and NBA player Kenny Thomas on the Senate floor, Monday, January 30, 2023. Thomas is there as part of UNM Day at the legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. George George Muñoz, D-Gallup, eats cheese stuffed bread sticks with marinara aloing side 1st grader Kaiden Coriz, left, and 2nd grader Judah Lee Bay, center. Eight members of the Senate Finance Committee had lunch with 1st and 2nd graders at Ramirez Thomas Elementary School in Santa Fe, Friday, January 27, 2023. They are considering a proposal by the Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to provide free school meals to all students. One hundred percent of the students at Ramirez Thomas Elementary are on a free breakfast and lunch program. Also having lunch with the 1st graders in Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, right. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill, D-Silver City, talks with Jaelyne Carrillo, left, and Delanzy Tapia Velasquez and she and eight members of the Senate Finance Committee have lunch with 1st and 2nd graders at Ramirez Thomas Elementary School in Santa Fe, Friday, January 27, 2023. They are concidering a proposal by the Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to provide free school meals to all students. One hundred percent of the students at Ramirez Thomas Elementary are on a free breakfast and lunch program. Also having lunch with the 1st graders in Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, right. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, take a SFPS electric bus to have lunch with kids at Ramirez Thomas Elementary School. They are considering a proposal by the Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to provide free school meals to all students. One hundred percent of the students at Ramirez Thomas Elementary are on a free breakfast and lunch program. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sam Valencia, center, from Santa Fe, and over 100 others stand during Christian music being performed at the Gathering for Life rally in the Rotunda, Friday, January 27, 2023. The anti abortion event is hosted by pro-life legislators and groups. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Kathy Krekel, Grace Duran and Arleen Lujan, all from Santa Fe, and over 100 others stand during Christian music being performed at the Gathering for Life rally in the Rotunda, Friday, January 27, 2023. The anti abortion event is hosted by pro-life legislators and groups. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Gregg Schmedes, R-Tijeras, shakes hands with House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and Sen. Min. Leader Greg Baca, R-Belen, after speaking at the Gathering for Life rally in the Rotunda, Friday, January 27, 2023. Over 100 people attended the anti abortion event is hosted by pro-life legislators and groups. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Cristopher Moore, with the Santa Fe Institute, watches a presentation on a tv screen while waiting to speak at a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting about the Arnold tool and pretrial detention. This is at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Friday, January 27, 2023
Artie Pepin, director of the Administrative Office of the Courts, watches a presentation on a tv screen while waiting to speak at a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting about the Arnold tool and pretrial detention. This is at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Friday, January 27, 2023
Kami Mia Luna Trujillo, 8, from Las Cruces, left, and other students participate in a discussion with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham about school lunches. This was in the Governor's Office at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 26, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Michelle Lujan Grisham, right, show kids some of the things on her desk, from left, Mikael Ramos, 9, Ares Lee, 9, Lisleine Ortiz, 8, and Rocio Campa, 1, all from Las Cruces, at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 26, 2023. This was after they participated in a discussion about school lunches, in the Governor's Office. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Michelle Lujan Grisham, show kids the things on her desk, from left, Ares Lee, 9, Lisleine Ortiz, 8, Mikael Ramos, 9, Samael Ramos, 7, Olivia Simmons, 10, and Kami Mia Luna Trujillo, 9, right, at the State Capitol, Thursday, January 26, 2023. This was after a news conference about school lunches in the Governor's Office. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Majority Whip Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, leads a news conference about House Bill 8, which seeks to establish a Creative Industries Division within the Economic Development Department, in January. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Archbishop John Wester, center, walks through the metal detectors as he enters the Roundhouse, Wednesday, January 25, 2023. Wester is in the Roundhouse to give the morning prayer in the House of Representatives. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From right, State Police Chief Tim Johnson, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, and Bernalillo County Sheriff, John Allen attend a news conference where Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, and other officials talk about legislative ideas for controlling crime in New Mexico. This was in the Governor's Office, Wednesday, January 25, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, and Sen. Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, after a news conference about legislative ideas for controlling crime in New Mexico. This was in the Governor's Office, Wednesday, January 25, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham listens, alongside Senate Democratic floor leader Peter Wirth of Santa Fe, during a January news conference on public safety issues in the Governor's Office. The Democratic governor has vetoed a bill that would have created a task force to study school dual credit programs. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
From left, House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, Sen. Maj. Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, and House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, hold a news conference to talk about legislative ideas for controlling crime in New Mexico. This was in the Governor's Office, Wednesday, January 25, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court Shannon Bacon, leaves the House Chambers after giving her State of the Judiciary address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court Shannon Bacon gives her State of the Judiciary address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court Shannon Bacon gives her State of the Judiciary address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court Shannon Bacon gives her State of the Judiciary address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Chief Justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court Shannon Bacon, centrer, talks with Sen. Mark Moores, R-Albuquerque, and Rep. Elizabeth "Liz" Thompson, D-Albuquerque, as she leaves the House Chambers after giving her State of the Judiciary address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From right, Patricia Roybal Caballero, D-Albuquerque, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen and Pamelya Herndon, D-Albuquerque, speak in support of a bill that would create criminal charges for gun owners not properly storing their guns. This is in the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Vanessa Sawyer, grandmother of Bennie Hargrove, a student who was shot and killed at Washington Middle School in Albuquerque, speaks in support of a bill that would create criminal charges for gun owners not properly storing their guns. This is in the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Ahtza Chavez, Navajo and Kewa, speaks at a news conference about a bill to protect and expand voting right for New Mexicans. This is at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Karina Tarango, Bryan Avila and Itzayana Banda, with the Dream Team from Albuquerque, listens to House Maj. Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, during a news conference to annouce they are sponsoring a bill to protect and expand voting right for New Mexicans. This is at the Roundhouse, Tuesday, January 24, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this Jan. 24 photo, House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, prepares to speak at a news conference. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. Harold Pope Jr., D-Albuquerque, left, talks with Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, on the Senate floor in Santa Fe, Monday, January 23, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Michael Shinabery, with the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo, walks through the wings of the Rotunda wearing a replica of Neil Armstrong's space suit. It is Earth Science and New Mexico Tech Day at the Legislature in Santa Fe, Monday, January 23, 2023. Due to the pandemic, this is the first time booths have been set up in the wings next to the Rotunda and people visiting them since 2020. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Monday, January 23, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, left, R-Azrtec, talks with Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, at the start of the legislative session at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Azrtec, center, and other legislators, take their Oath of Ethical Conduct at the start of the legislative session, Tuesday January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, sits on a bench in his hometown, Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Lane is the new House Minority Leader. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Ryan Lane, R-Aztec, poses in his ice cream shop, Vanilla Bean, in his hometown, Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Lane is the new House Minority Leader. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
A ballet folklorico group from Portales High School and Jr. High dance in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Wednesday, January 18, 2023. From left, Samuel Marquez, 17, Juana Martinez, 18, Maria Lemos, 15 and an exchange student from Brazil, and Isabel Landa, 16 and an exchange student from Spain, dance in the Rotunda after the performance was over. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Jesana Dominguez, 15, with a ballet folklorico group from Portales High School and Jr. High dance in the Rotunda of the State Capitol Wednesday, January 18, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, right, is now chair of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee. They were meeting at the State Capitol Wednesday, January 18, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Nathan Small, D-Las Cruces, left, talks with Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, on the House floor of the State Capitol Wednesday, January 18, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Claudia Diaz, a supervisor for Building Services, removes chairs from the Rotunda after an event at the State Capitol, State Capitol, Thursday, January 19, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, center, takes a selfie with Rep. Andrea Romero, left, D-Santa Fe, and Kristina Ortez, D-Taos, after delivering her State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, shown delivering her State of the State address on Jan. 17, will have final decision-making authority on a bill to raise pay levels for all statewide elected officials, after the House approved the bill on Thursday. The proposal would not affect Lujan Grisham, as a salary increase for the governor would be delayed until after she leaves office in 2027. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham delivers her State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. Tuesday is the start of the 2023 legislative session (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham delivers her State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham delivers her State of the State address to a join session of the House and Senate at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. Tuesday is the start of the 2023 legislative session (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Speaker Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, hugs his wife Diana after being elected as House Speaker at the start of the 2023 regular session of the New Mexico legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, is sworn in as House Speaker by Sec. of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver at the start of the 2023 regular session of the New Mexico legislature. Former House Speaker Brian Egolf, left, videos the event. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, and other members of the House of Representatives are sworn in by Sec. of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver at the start of the 2023 regular session of the New Mexico legislature. Martinez was later elected House Speaker of the House. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Majority Whip Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, left, stand for the presentation of colors on opening day of the legislative session at the Roundhouse last month. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Maj. Leader Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, talks with Justice Michael Vigil during the opening day ceremonies of the 2023 legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, left, R-Azrtec, talks Rep. Rod Montoya, R-Farmington, at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. Tuesday is the start of the legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Wonda Johnson, D-Church Rock, with her nephew Aiden Arviso, 9, wait for the start of the 2023 regular session of the New Mexico legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Navajo President Buu Nygren, center, talks with Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, left, and U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, right, during the first day of the 2023 legislative session, Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Maegan Pacheco, Edward Pacheco and Joanna Alvarez, a mariachi band call Euforia from Santa Fe, perform from the press room before the start of the 2023 legislative session, Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Former Lt. Gov. Walter Bradley, center, talks to freshman Rep. Andrea Reeb, R-Clovis, and her son David Reeb, III, and husband David Reeb, Jr. before the start of the legislative session, Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
As Democrats applaud Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's announcement to push for a ban on assault riffles, House Min. Leader Ryan Lane, R-Azrtec, center, House Min. Whip Jason Harper, R-Rio Rancho, and other Republicans sit quietly. This was during the State address at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Tuesday January 17, 2023. Tuesday is the start of the 2023 regular session of the New Mexico legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Michael Peterson, from Silver City, who has worked from home for 21 years for the Department of Health, stands with other teleworkers for the state, holding a rally outside the Roundhouse on opening day of the legislative session Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Allie Baca, from Santa Fe, who works for the Air Quality Bureau of the Environment Department, attends to her daughter Ivy, 2, as she and other teleworkers for the state hold a rally outside the Roundhouse on opening day of the legislative session, Tuesday, January 17, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
A dusting of snow fell around the Roundhouse as the 2023 session got underway. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Jerry Trujillo, with the House Sergeant at Arms, sets out chairs in the House Chambers at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Friday, January 12, 2023. He and others are busy getting ready for the start of the 60 day legislative session and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's state of the state address at the Roundhouse on Tuesday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Benito Sisneros, with the State Capitol's security, screens Cayden Diamond, 14, daughter of Sen. Crystal Diamond, R-Elephant Butte, as she enters the Roundhouse. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque JournaL)
Jerry Trujillo, with the House Sergeant at Arms, sets out chairs in the House Chambers at the Roundhouse. He and others are busy getting ready for the start of the 60 day legislative session and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's state of the state address at the Roundhouse on Tuesday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Fernando Sena, with the State Capitol's building services, vacuums under seats in the Senate Chambers at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe. The 60 day legislative session starts at the Roundhouse on Tuesday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
In this file photo, Jennifer Chavez of Building Services prepares the Capitol for the 60-day session. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Fernando Sena, with the State Capitol's building services, vacuums under seats in the Senate Chambers at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 12, 2023. The 60 day legislative session starts at the Roundhouse on Tuesday. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Four old houses across Don Gaspar Avenue from the State Capitol could be demolished and turned into office state office buildings. Photo shot in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 11, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep. Patricia Lundstrom, D-Gallup, chair of the LFC, hands the microphone to Sen. George Munoz, D-Gallup, vice chair of the LFC, during a news conference to talk about thier proposal for next year's state spending. The news conference was held next the the Tomothy Hooton's sculpture Acequia in the State Capitol Annex in Santa Fe, Thursday, January 12, 2023. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rep-elect Reena Szczepanski, D-Santa Fe, who will serve as the House Majority Whip when sworn in, points out a photo of the first women to serve in the legislature. The photo of Bertha Paxton is displayed along with other members of the House of Representatives from 1923 along the wall in the House Gallery. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
From left, Sen. George Munoz, D-Gallup, with Director of the LFC David Abbey, and Rep. Patricia Lundstrom, D-Gallup, speaks of opportunity and a word of caution as they and members of the Legislative Finance Committee learn that the state is expecting to have $3.6 billion in new money to decide what to do with during the next legislative session. This was during their meeting in the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Monday, December 12, 2022. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, and other members of the Legislative Finance Committee learn that the state is expecting to have $3.6 billion in new money to decide what to do with during the next legislative session. This was during their meeting in the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Monday, December 12, 2022. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Secretary of Taxation and Revenue Stephanie Schardin Clarke and others inform the Legislative Finance Committee that they estimate the state should have $3.6 billion in new money to decide what to do with during the next legislative session. This was during the LFC meeting in the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, Monday, December 12, 2022. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Justin Morales, 8, from Hobbs, center, and his brother Jonathan, left, attend a rally in the Rotunda after listening to a Legislative Finance Committee meeting where they are debating how to use the money being directed towards early childhood education. Dozens of people from immigrant advocacy groups attending the meeting at the Roundhouse, Thursday, December 15, 2022 (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Rosalinda Dorado, with El Centro in Albuquerque, listens to a Legislative Finance Committee meeting where they are debating how to use the money being directed towards early childhood education. She is with dozens of people from immigrant advocacy groups attending the meeting at the Roundhouse, Thursday, December 15, 2022 (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
Metal detectors are shown on the Roundhouse's east lobby on Wednesday. Proof of COVID-19 vaccine will not be required for public entry into the Capitol during the upcoming 60-day legislative session. (Eddie Moore/Journal)
New members of the New Mexico House, from left, Kathleen Cates, D-Corrales; Janelle Anyanonu, D-Albuquerque; and Alan Martinez, D-Bernalillo, talk during a December ethics training session. The new faces at the Roundhouse are expected to help push ideas for “modernizing” the Legislature. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)
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Our team
Dan Boyd, pictured left in 2018, is the Capitol Bureau Chief for the Journal and has covered the New Mexico Legislature since 2008. He previously covered Santa Fe City Hall and worked for a newspaper in Idaho. After nearly a decade working there, Boyd rarely gets lost in the Roundhouse.
Dan McKay, center, joined the legislative team ahead of the 2017 session, when he learned more than he ever wanted to know about sponge bonds. Before that, he covered City Hall and county government in Albuquerque. McKay is an Air Force brat who graduated from the University of New Mexico.
Eddie Moore, right, lives in Santa Fe County and has been covering the New Mexico Legislature, state government and northern New Mexico as a news photographer for more than 20 years, sometimes with a patrician slant toward fishing.
