Massive lobbying reform wins, but other pro-democracy reforms stall

Santa Fe, New Mexico — New Mexico’s 2025 legislative session concludes with lobbying reform and wins for expanding access to elections, but legislature modernization and campaign finance reform fail to become law. 

SB 85 and SJR 1 were some of the strongest good government, pro-democracy reforms of the session. SJR 1 would have created the groundwork for a more representative state legislature by establishing legislative salaries, while SB 85 closed loopholes in the state’s campaign finance law. Both bills got to the root of the big money problem, leveling the playing field and ensuring that the people’s needs come before the needs of special interests.

This year’s democracy wins include:

1. HB 143: The biggest lobbying reform of the last decade, HB 143 strengthens accountability and transparency in the state legislature by requiring increased disclosures for lobbyists for the public to access.
2. HJR 2: Enhances transparency and accountability in the legislative process by eliminating the governor’s pocket veto power, requiring each veto to be accompanied by an explanation on why legislative measures were blocked. This resolution will go to voters in 2026
3. SB 5: Modernizes wildlife management in New Mexico, increasing transparency and government efficacy for the department.
4. SB 16: Establishes semi-open primaries to include the 330,000+ independent voters in taxpayer funded primary elections. Independent and decline to state voters are the largest and quickest growing voting block in the state and we believe that all voices should be heard throughout our electoral process.

Statement of Common Cause New Mexico’s Policy Director Mason Graham

“Right now, the most important thing we can do is invest in our state’s democracy to ensure that it stays healthy and accessible to everyone for years to come. That means modernizing our state legislature, closing loopholes that allow monied interests to have an outsized influence in our elections, and ensuring that all New Mexicans have equal and equitable access to the ballot.

“While this legislative session saw some important wins, our work to improve our state democracy continues as its urgency increases. With instability at the federal level, we encourage our state legislators to act aggressively in the best interest of New Mexicans as we move forward together.

“We have the privilege in New Mexico of doing proactive legislative work in our state, rather than the defensive work that some state legislatures must do to safeguard their rights. Now is the time to invest in our collective futures through meaningful, pro-democracy reform.

“Common Cause New Mexico looks forward to continuing our work to strengthen our democracy in collaboration with our state legislators.”

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