The University of New Mexico (UNM) has outlined its legislative priorities for the 2025 session, aligning them with its long-term strategic plan aimed at achieving a vibrant and thriving society. These priorities are part of UNM's broader 2040 goals to foster a healthier, better-educated, and more economically robust New Mexico.
As the First Session of the 57th New Mexico Legislature begins on January 21, UNM will focus on tracking several bills that impact its campuses, including issues related to Human Resources, retirement, budget, and higher education. The university's Office of Government & Community Relations will provide updates through the UNM Bill Tracker to keep stakeholders informed.
New revenue projections estimate over $892 million in "new" money for the state. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s FY26 Executive Budget Recommendation proposes $10.9 billion in recurring spending, a 5.3% increase from FY25. It includes an additional $172 million for state employee pay raises and maintains reserves at 30.4%. The higher education sector is set to receive $1.4 billion in recurring general fund appropriations.
The Legislative Finance Committee's FY26 Budget Recommendation also suggests a $10.8 billion total spend with reserves at 33%. Higher education institutions would see an almost 3% increase in funding over FY25.
UNM’s Fiscal Year 2025 legislative priorities include improving healthcare access statewide by addressing workforce gaps and enhancing provider reimbursement rates. The university aims to contribute to economic diversification by fostering collaborations between education sectors and expanding infrastructure for research in emerging sciences like AI.
Other key areas include enhancing educational access and campus safety by supporting increased funding for scholarships and student support services while advocating for faculty compensation increases to improve recruitment and retention.
UNM has also identified specific capital projects connected to these goals, such as renovations across various campuses totaling millions of dollars.
For further details on the legislative session, visit Government Relations' website.
Alerts Sign-up