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Latest proposal filed to pay legislators a salary
New Mexico is currently the only state in which legislators are not paid a salary.
But that would change under a proposed constitutional amendment, House Joint Resolution 5, that was filed this week at the Roundhouse by Reps. Cristina Parajón, D-Albuquerque, and Angelica Rubio, D-Las Cruces.
The proposal, which would have to be approved by voters in the November general election, would tie legislator's pay to the annual median household income for New Mexico.
That figure was $62,125 as of 2023, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Backers say paying lawmakers a salary would allow a broader swatch of New Mexicans to run for the Legislature.
But lawmakers do currently receive a per diem payment — currently set at $202 per day — intended to cover their food and lodging expenses while in session.
They can also qualify for a legislative pension plan after serving 10 years in the Legislature.
At a glance - medical compacts
Sen. Linda Trujillo, D-Santa Fe, second from left, talks to people as she leaves a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting after she successfully got a medical compact bill through the committee, Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The bill now moves on to the Senate Floor for a vote. Eddie Moore/Journal At a glance - public safety
Kimberly Carlston, right, with Aunties for Justice, along with Monique and Juan Escobar, whose son Andrew Escobar is missing, attend a news conference about public safety at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Eddie Moore/Journal 
Public Safety Secretary Jason Bowie takes part in a news conference with several Republican Legislators on public safety, at the Roundhouse, in Santa Fe, Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Eddie Moore/Journal Governor candidates show up for opening day
With a key statewide election cycle looming on the horizon this year, several candidates for governor made their way to the Roundhouse for the opening day of the session.
Democrats Sam Bregman and Deb Haaland, who are vying for their party's nomination, were both seated in the House chamber during Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's State of the State Address.
Two GOP candidates were also present for the opening day festivities — Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull and Steve Lanier. But Lanier wasn't just at the Roundhouse to observe — he's also a state senator representing an Aztec-based district.
Packed House for start of session
With the 30-day legislative session set to get underway at noon, the Roundhouse has been buzzing with activity.
A line began forming at 7:30 a.m. to secure a spot in the House public gallery, with members of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration, political candidates and advocates among those waiting for a seat.
The governor will deliver her annual State of the State Address after the Legislature officially starts its business -- her final such speech as governor.
While lawmakers waited for the clock to strike noon, mariachis entertained House members and their guests and lawmakers posed for selfies.
The public is now required to pass through metal detectors to enter the Roundhouse, a change implemented by lawmakers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
At a glance
Anna Quintana, a deputy Sergeant-at-Arms, works in the House Chambers on Friday. Dozens of people were busy getting ready for the start of the 2026 legislative session on Tuesday. Eddie Moore/Journal Rounding Up The Roundhouse
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Legislative session begins Tuesday
Hundreds of bills are expected to be filed during the 30-day legislative session that begins Tuesday at noon at the state Capitol in Santa Fe. Here are some key session dates:
Jan. 20 — Session begins.
Feb. 4 — Last day to introduce legislation.
Feb. 19 — Session ends.
March 11 — Deadline for governor to act on approved bills.
New Mexico Legislature 2026
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