SILVER CITY, N.M. — With the New Mexico Legislature beginning its 2024 session Jan. 16, Western New Mexico University leadership is gearing up to advocate on behalf of the university by requesting the state budget include funding for a number of projects.

The focus of the university’s advocacy efforts will occur on Jan. 24, which is Grant County Day at the Legislature. On this day, not only is the WNMU leadership team in Santa Fe, but members of student government will have a chance to meet with legislators, and Mariachi Plata de WNMU will perform in the statehouse.

Heading the list of capital projects for which the university seeks funding is a new Career Technical Education...

PHOENIX — Members of the 25th Navajo Nation Council and Speaker Crystalyne Curley met with Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, and Arizona legislators at the Arizona State Capitol during the 29th Annual Indian Nations and Tribes Legislative Day on to advocate on behalf of Navajo Nation priorities.

The Governor's Office on Tribal Relations, in coordination with representatives from the State's Tribal Nations, facilitated the Indian Nations and Tribes Legislative Day on Jan. 10.

“There is a lot at risk, but also a lot of opportunities for Arizona’s tribes and that’s why it’s so important that our voices are heard by state legislators, agencies...

SANTA FE — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham unveiled her public safety legislative agenda at the State Capitol on Jan. 12.

"This is, without a doubt, the largest and most comprehensive public safety package in our state’s history,” she said. “Gun violence is a significant contributor to the cycles of crime in our communities and will continue to use every tool at our disposal to end this epidemic. Likewise, we will strengthen our support for law enforcement, increase penalties for violent crimes, and once again pursue legislation to keep violent offenders behind bars pending trial. All of this will build upon the progress and investments we’ve made in previous years.”

The...

SANTA FE — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham released the FY2025 executive budget recommendation on Jan. 4. The budget totals $10.5 billion in recurring spending, a 9.9% increase from the last fiscal year. The executive recommendation will maintain reserves at 34.2%. The budget directs meaningful investments in key areas including housing, education, child wellbeing, public safety, health care, economic development, and water and natural resources.

“Because of our historic – but prudent – investments made over the last few years in New Mexico in everything from small businesses to hospitals, childcare to college, free school meals to law enforcement, the future of our state is brighter...