Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs

House Memorial 7 requests a study of New Mexico state government practices that result in long-term employment without standard benefits or protections. The study will examine how agencies classify workers (e.g., as temporary or seasonal) to avoid providing benefits like health insurance, retirement, or job stability, particularly affecting lower-wage public employees in service roles. It will analyze current patterns, fiscal impacts of extending benefits, and equity effects on rural communities before November 2026.

This House Memorial (HM 46) is a non-binding resolution honoring the Hurley family's military and cultural contributions to New Mexico and the world. It specifically recognizes Major General Patrick J. Hurley's diplomatic and military service (including roles in both World Wars and as Secretary of War) and his son Wilson Hurley's military career as a pilot and his artistic achievements. The resolution also acknowledges the New Mexico Military Museum's work in preserving the state's military history, including its upcoming exhibition of Wilson Hurley's art. As a commemorative resolution, it does not create new laws or policies but formally recognizes these individuals and the museum's role.

SB 59 adds "off-site fabricators" to New Mexico's Public Works Minimum Wage Act. This means workers who prefabricate components like ductwork for public projects (e.g., schools, roads) must now receive the same minimum wage and fringe benefits as on-site laborers and mechanics. The bill requires contractors to pay prevailing wages determined by the labor division based on collective bargaining agreements for these workers, with rates posted at project sites and payroll records maintained. It directly affects contractors and fabricators working on public projects over $60,000, ensuring they meet the same wage standards as other construction workers.

SB 146 corrects an outdated reference to U.S. code in New Mexico’s law regarding the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This procedural bill updates the state statute to align with the existing interstate agreement but does not create new policies or protections for military children. The compact itself - already in place across multiple states - aims to ease school transitions for military-connected students by standardizing record transfers, course credits, and enrollment rules. New Mexico’s update ensures its law matches the federal reference without altering how military families access educational support.

SB 127 exempts makeup artists and hairstylists employed in motion picture productions from New Mexico's Barbers and Cosmetologists Act licensing requirements. This bill directly affects film industry workers who provide hair and makeup services during movie shoots. The key provision amends the existing law to add a new exemption category (F) specifically for these professionals in the film industry. As a result, these workers no longer need state licenses to perform their roles on film sets within New Mexico.