The New Mexico State Parks Division is currently preparing its five-year update of the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). The plan will evaluate the existing supply of outdoor recreation resources and facilities in each region of the state in order to help prioritize future funding of outdoor recreation projects.
The New Mexico State Parks Division is assessing regional recommendations and priorities for outdoor recreation and they need your input!
Join the Virtual Town Hall for your region to learn about State Parks has heard from residents so far and to let them know what is needed in your community!
Register for your region's virtual town hall below:
SOUTHWEST (Catron, Dona Ana, Grant, Hidalgo, Luna, Sierra and Socorro) | June 17 | 5:00 p.m - 6:30 p.m.
SOUTHEAST (Chaves, Curry, De Baca, Eddy, Lea, Lincoln, Otero, Roosevelt) | June 1 | 5:00 p.m - 6:30 p.m.
NORTHEAST (Colfax, Guadalupe, Harding, Lincoln, Mora, Quay, San Miguel) | June 10 | 5:00 p.m - 6:30 p.m.
NORTHWEST (Cibola, McKinley, San Juan) | June 22 | 5:00 p.m - 6:30 p.m.
USDA Expands Access to Capital for Very Small Rural Businesses
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced that it has implemented a series of actions to make it easier for very small rural businesses to get access to capital.
The Department published a final rule outlining changes to the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP). The program provides loans and grants to microenterprise development organizations to help them establish revolving loan programs to assist microenterprises, businesses with 10 or fewer full-time employees. It also provides annual funding to development organizations to conduct training and provide technical assistance to microloan borrowers.
The changes took effect May 14, 2021. For additional information, see page 26348 of the May 14, 2021 Federal Register.
Program applications are accepted on a continuous basis in Rural Development State Offices which can be found at: https://rd.usda.gov/about-rd/state-offices
Virgin Galactic Achieves First Human Spaceflight from Spaceport America
Over the weekend, Virgin Galactic completed its third spaceflight and the first ever spaceflight from Spaceport America. Last weekend's flight sees New Mexico become the third US state to launch humans into space.
VSS Unity achieved a speed of Mach 3 after being released from the mothership, VMS Eve, and reached space, at an altitude of 55.45 miles before gliding smoothly to a runway landing at Spaceport America.
To celebrate the first human spaceflight from New Mexico, the Zia Sun Symbol of New Mexico's state flag was placed prominently on the exterior of the Spaceship.
"Fifteen years ago, New Mexico embarked on a journey to create the world's first commercial spaceport,'' said Sir Richard Branson. ''Today, we launched the first human spaceflight from that very same place, marking an important milestone for both Virgin Galactic and New Mexico."
During the 2021 Legislative Session, I was honored to co-sponsored legislation that was signed into law that the Spaceport Authority stated will "enhance New Mexico's leadership in commercial spaceflight and will continue to promote the creation of economic and educational opportunities for New Mexicans."
COVID Relief Resources
$600 Income Tax Rebate and Temporary Gross Receipts Tax Deduction for Food Services
Senate Bill 1 was signed into law, providing a $600 rebate for certain 2020 taxpayers who file personal income tax. It also provides a temporary gross receipts tax deduction for food and beverage establishments.
Emergency Broadband Benefit Program
Millions of New Mexicans are now eligible for a $50/month discount on broadband internet service through approved providers ($75 for eligible households on Tribal land).
LEDA Recovery Grants
Grants can be used for rent, lease, and mortgage to businesses that meet hiring requirements. Contact LEDA@nmfinance.com. View the webinar.
Small Business Recovery Loan Fund
Loans up to $150,000 at 1.625% for up to 10 years. No payments due the 1st year, interest-only due the 2nd and 3rd year, no pre-payment penalty.
