New Mexico's unsalaried legislature asks voters to reconsider volunteer status

The New Mexico Senate narrowly approved a constitutional amendment to let voters decide in November whether to allow direct legislative pay tied to the state's median income, an effort advanced this session by younger female lawmakers who cited challenges balancing work, family and legislative duties.

The New Mexico state Senate narrowly endorsed a constitutional amendment that would remove the state's long-standing prohibition on direct legislative compensation and allow voters to decide in November whether to tie salaries to the state's median income. The initiative, which had stalled in prior years, was advanced this session by a group of younger female lawmakers who described challenges balancing paid work, family and legislative duties. New Mexico has maintained an unsalaried "citizen legislature" since statehood, while the state does cover travel expenses and provides allowances for meals and lodging during sessions. Many legislators also have access to public pension benefits. Key details: - The state Senate narrowly endorsed a constitutional amendment to permit direct compensation for legislators. - If approved by voters in November, the proposal would tie legislative pay to New Mexico's median income. - The effort was promoted this session by younger female lawmakers after previous attempts stalled. - New Mexico does not pay legislative salaries but covers travel costs and provides session allowances; many lawmakers have access to pension benefits. - The article notes contrasts with other states, where legislative salaries vary widely (for example, over $100,000 in some states and a nominal $100 in another). Summary: Supporters say changing the prohibition on direct pay could affect who is able to serve by addressing the financial and scheduling pressures of unpaid service. The constitutional amendment will appear on the November ballot for a public vote.