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New Mexico lawmakers are seeking to end their status as the nation’s only unsalaried legislature, advancing a constitutional amendment that would allow voters to decide whether to provide compensation for the first time since statehood in 1912.
The state Senate narrowly approved the measure Tuesday night, setting up a November ballot question that could fundamentally change how New Mexico’s legislative branch operates. If passed, lawmakers would receive salaries tied to the state’s median income—currently about $67,000 annually.
The initiative gained momentum through the efforts of a coalition of younger female legislators who highlighted the difficulties of balancing legislative responsibilities with careers and family obligations.
“Can working parents juggle child care, a mortgage and legislative service? Some of us do, but it’s not sustainable,” said Democratic state Sen. Angel Charley of Acoma, who sponsored the measure. “When service requires personal wealth or extraordinary sacrifice, representation narrows… Democracy shrinks.”
Currently, New Mexico legislators receive no direct salary, though taxpayers cover their travel expenses and provide a per diem allowance for meals and lodging during legislative sessions. Many lawmakers also qualify for public pension benefits.
The volunteer nature of New Mexico’s legislature has long been celebrated as part of the state’s political tradition. Supporters call it a “citizen legislature,” suggesting lawmakers remain closely connected to their communities rather than becoming career politicians.
However, critics argue this unpaid system effectively limits who can serve to those with independent wealth, retirees, or people with extremely flexible employment situations. This raises concerns about whether the legislature truly represents the diversity of New Mexico’s population.
State Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, another supporter of the amendment, previously told local media that the current system means “regular New Mexicans cannot afford to serve,” creating a legislature that doesn’t reflect the state’s demographics or economic realities.
The proposed change comes as state legislatures nationwide grapple with questions about compensation and professionalization. Legislative salaries vary dramatically across the country, from New Hampshire’s symbolic $100 annual payment to California and New York, where lawmakers earn over $100,000 per year.
Political scientists have long debated the merits of professional versus citizen legislatures. Professional bodies with higher compensation typically meet for longer sessions, employ larger staffs, and can devote more time to policy development and oversight. Citizen legislatures generally meet for shorter periods and have fewer resources but maintain closer ties to constituents’ everyday experiences.
New Mexico’s 112 legislators—42 senators and 70 representatives—currently convene for 30-day sessions in even-numbered years and 60-day sessions in odd-numbered years, with occasional special sessions called by the governor.
Critics of the salary proposal worry that paid legislators might expand session lengths and increase government costs. Supporters counter that professional compensation would allow for more thoughtful legislation and enable a wider range of citizens to serve.
If voters approve the amendment, New Mexico would join 49 other states in providing some form of salary to lawmakers, marking a significant shift in the state’s governmental structure.
The issue has transcended typical partisan divides, with both Republicans and Democrats expressing varying views based more on philosophical perspectives about government service than party affiliation.
For many New Mexicans, the November vote will represent a choice between preserving a long-standing tradition and modernizing their legislature to reflect contemporary economic realities.
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7 Comments
This is a complex issue without easy answers. On one hand, salaried legislators could improve representation and government effectiveness. On the other, taxpayer-funded salaries raise accountability concerns. Glad to see New Mexico voters will have a direct say.
Well said. Voter input will be critical to finding the right balance for New Mexico.
This is an interesting debate on legislative compensation. While lawmakers should be able to serve without undue financial burden, taxpayer-funded salaries also need to be reasonable and accountable. I’m curious to see how New Mexico voters weigh the tradeoffs.
The challenges of balancing legislative duties with careers and family are valid. Providing fair compensation could help ensure diverse representation and strengthen New Mexico’s democracy. However, voters will need to carefully consider the fiscal implications before approving this change.
That’s a good point. Voters will want to understand the full financial impact on the state budget before deciding.
Unsalaried legislatures are quite rare these days. If this measure passes, it could set an important precedent for other states to follow. But the details on proposed salaries and oversight will be crucial.
Interesting to see New Mexico grappling with this issue. Providing some level of compensation seems reasonable to attract a wider range of candidates, but the specifics will be key. Curious to see how the public debate unfolds.