Bill > HJR18

This joint resolution proposes to amend the New Mexico Constitution to establish a "Citizen Commission on Legislative Salaries" as an independent state agency responsible for setting and adjusting legislative salaries. The commission would consist of nine public members, with no more than four from the same political party, who would serve without compensation but receive per diem and mileage expenses. The commission would be required to review and research legislative salaries, adopt a final report every four years (first due by October 1, 2028), and file the report with the secretary of state. Any salary adjustments would require at least five commission members' affirmative votes and would take effect in the first full state employee pay period in July following the report's filing. The resolution also modifies existing constitutional language to specify that legislators will receive per diem and mileage expenses based on federal guidelines, and adds a provision for a salary established by the new commission. The proposed constitutional amendment would be submitted to voters for approval at the next general election or a special election.

Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=JR&legno=18&year=25