SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico House Republican leadership is renewing their call for Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to convene a special legislative session and allow lawmakers to debate how best to provide tax relief to New Mexicans.
In a follow-up letter sent today, Republican Leader Gail Armstrong, Republican Whip Alan Martinez, and Republican Caucus Chair Rebecca Dow urged the governor to put both proposals before the Legislature: her proposed $250 rebate and the House Republicans' plan to eliminate the state personal income tax.
"New Mexicans deserve more than another temporary payment," said Armstrong. "The governor should call a special session and let the Legislature publicly debate whether families are better served by a one-time $250 rebate or permanent tax relief in every paycheck."
Eliminating the personal income tax would return approximately $2.2 billion each year to New Mexico families, workers, and the private economy. House Republican leaders maintain that the proposal would not require cuts to public education, health care, law enforcement, or other essential services. State recurring revenues would remain above $12 billion, compared with the current $11.3 billion recurring state budget.
"We agree that New Mexicans need relief," said Martinez. "The question is whether that relief should be temporary and limited, or permanent and meaningful. That decision should be made through an open legislative process."
The leaders said a special session would give Republicans, Democrats, and the public an opportunity to debate both approaches and act quickly.
"Doing nothing should not be an option," said Dow. "Call the special session, bring both proposals forward, and let the Legislature decide which form of relief will do the most for New Mexico families."
***See the full letter attached.***
