Albuquerque, April 23-- The following is RPNM Chairman Steve Pearce's statement on today's passage of the $484 billion stimulus package by the U.S. House:

"During this health crisis and economic collapse, it is imperative that we provide funding to save our small businesses, hospitals and other vital institutions. The country's economy is in a free fall, and the federal government's assistance is the right tactic. But it's temporary relief. New Mexico's government must take decisive action now and reopen our businesses. Big Box stores are steering New Mexico dollars out of the state, while locally-owned businesses and Main Streets here are shuttered and suffering a slow death. For us to recover as a state, we must act now."