Technology (Emerging Technology)

SB 136 makes it illegal to use drones to secretly capture images of people, private property, or critical infrastructure without permission for surveillance purposes. It creates two offenses: a misdemeanor for general unauthorized drone surveillance, and a felony for drone operations near critical infrastructure (like power plants, water facilities, or government buildings) that disrupt operations or cause contact. Exceptions include drone use with consent, by government agencies, for research, by licensed surveyors, or for insurance purposes. The law aims to prevent privacy violations and security threats while allowing legitimate drone activities under specific conditions.

SB 68, the Artificial Intelligence Government Use Act, requires New Mexico's public bodies - including state agencies, counties, school districts, and other government entities - to establish policies for using artificial intelligence (AI) and automated decision tools. These policies must ensure human employees make final decisions for consequential matters (like housing, employment, or health care), protect sensitive data, and prevent bypassing security protocols. Public bodies must also train employees on AI policies and appropriate use, with policies made available to the public upon request. The law takes effect on July 1, 2026.

HB 89 establishes a new computer science teaching endorsement in New Mexico, allowing educators to teach computer science at all grade levels. To qualify, teachers must meet one of several requirements, including 15 college credits in computer science, two years of industry experience, or 60 hours of relevant professional development. The bill appropriates $250,000 for quantum computing-focused professional development to support teachers seeking or maintaining this endorsement. This requirement directly affects current and future New Mexico teachers who wish to add computer science to their teaching license.

SB 177 transfers $111 million from New Mexico's General Fund to the Research, Development and Deployment Fund, with additional allocations totaling $106 million over three years for economic development initiatives. It specifically funds advanced energy startups ($37.5 million), defense/aerospace/bioscience innovation hubs ($30.9 million), and university research projects at New Mexico Tech and UNM (including $9 million for wireless tech and $8 million for defense-related equipment). These funds target industries like renewable energy, quantum computing, and defense technology, with unspent balances reverting to the General Fund by 2029. The bill directly affects the Economic Development Department, New Mexico universities, national laboratories, and businesses in targeted technology sectors.

SB 36 creates a 30% tax credit for businesses making at least $3 million in qualified infrastructure or equipment expenditures for quantum facilities located in New Mexico. The credit, capped at $50 million per facility, directly affects companies building quantum technology research facilities in the state. Key provisions require preliminary and final certification from New Mexico's Economic Development Department, mandate equipment stay in-state for 10 years, and include specific definitions for "quantum facility" and "qualified equipment." The credit reduces income tax liability, with unused portions refundable, and is subject to an annual $50 million state budget cap.