Bill > SB483

This bill establishes the "New Mexico federal land management study commission" to investigate various options for managing federal lands within the state. The commission, which will operate until December 31, 2016, is comprised of legislative members, state officials such as the commissioner of public lands and the secretary of energy, minerals and natural resources, and public appointees. Its primary tasks include studying the potential transfer of federal lands to the state, to New Mexico's Indian nations, tribes, and pueblos, and to the state's historic land grants, as well as exploring possible land exchanges between the state and the federal government. The commission is also directed to consider opportunities for improved wildlife management, the transfer of culturally or spiritually significant lands, addressing land access issues, and achieving cost savings. The secretary of Indian affairs will consult with Native American representatives, and the commission will gather input from a broad range of stakeholders. The commission is required to provide progress reports to legislative committees in 2015 and a final report with its findings and recommendations by December 31, 2016, ensuring that no action taken prejudices the rights of New Mexico's historic land grants.