ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A new legislative office has opened on Albuquerque’s Westside to give residents a nearby place to meet with state legislators. The space is intended to make lawmakers more accessible between sessions and provide a straightforward way for people to raise questions and concerns.

Community members turned out for the office’s grand opening to show support and learn how they can connect with their elected officials. The location is part of a broader effort to maintain local contact points around the state so constituents don’t have to travel to Santa Fe to be heard.

New Mexico remains the only state where legislators are not paid a salary, and that reality makes having local offices especially important. These spaces help lawmakers balance their legislative duties with work and family obligations while continuing to serve constituents close to home.

The new office joins roughly a dozen similar sites across New Mexico and will be used by legislators including Rep. Yanira Gurrola. Gurrola noted that because lawmakers spend much of their legislative time in Santa Fe, having a neighborhood office gives people a clear place to find and speak with them when they are back home.

Residents can visit the office at 201 Unser Boulevard NW to meet with representatives and staff. Eleanor Chávez is another legislator who will be accessible through this Westside location, which aims to strengthen ongoing communication between lawmakers and the communities they represent.