Bill > HB540

This bill modifies the process for filling legislative vacancies in the New Mexico House of Representatives and Senate, establishing more structured and transparent procedures. The bill defines an "eligible individual" as someone who has been registered to vote and continuously resided in the district since the most recent general election. For single-county districts, the county commissioners will appoint replacements following specific procedural requirements, including soliciting applications, announcing a public meeting within two business days, and holding a special meeting within three weeks where commissioners vote by ballot. For multi-county districts, each county's board will submit a name to the governor, who must then appoint a replacement within seven business days. The bill introduces additional provisions for filling vacancies during legislative sessions, requiring faster appointment processes. Appointments will be for a term ending on December 31 after the next general election, and vacancies will be filled from districts established in the 2021 Redistricting Act. By January 1, 2026, county commissioners must adopt a formal ranking procedure for candidates, either ranking the top five candidates or ranking all candidates if fewer than five apply. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing time for counties to prepare and implement the new procedures.

Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=540&year=25