LAS CRUCES — New Mexico voters approved Constitutional Amendment 4 on Tuesday, establishing a base salary for state legislators that will take effect with the 59th Legislature in 2029. The amendment ties compensation to the state’s annual median household income, ensuring pay rises or falls with the economic well‑being of ordinary families.
Vote totals and certification
Unofficial returns from the secretary of state’s office, reported around 10 p.m., showed 237,963 “yes” votes (61.9%) against 146,192 “no” votes (38.1%). The 91,771‑vote margin came from a total of 384,155 ballots cast on the question statewide. Results remain subject to final certification.
How the new salary will work
Under the amendment, each legislator will receive compensation equal to New Mexico’s median household income, currently estimated at about $67,800. The Legislative Finance Committee projects an annual cost of roughly $7.6 million based on 112 legislators, though the exact figure will depend on the median income figure in 2029.
Lawmakers will continue to receive per‑diem allowances and mileage reimbursements, but the new base salary will replace the long‑standing practice of relying solely on expense allowances.
Supporters cite fairness and representation
Vote for Change, the statewide coalition that championed the amendment, celebrated the outcome as a step toward a more representative government. “New Mexicans today have rejected the status quo and opened the door to a government that reflects their lived experience and the challenges they face every day,” said Eli Cuna, the coalition’s campaign manager.
Supporters argue that tying pay to the median household income strengthens the connection between lawmakers and the families affected by their decisions. “Public service shouldn’t be something only people with financial resources can afford,” said Marcela Diaz, executive director of Somos Un Pueblo Unido.
Opposition raises fiscal concerns
Opponents, including the Rio Grande Foundation, warned that adding a salary could increase government spending without guaranteeing better performance. They contend the amendment adds to existing benefits without clear evidence that the additional cost will improve governance.
Local impact and next steps
The amendment changes Article 4, Section 10 of the New Mexico Constitution. Its implementation is delayed until 2029, giving the Legislature time to develop the compensation process. The measure was placed on the ballot through House Joint Resolution 5, sponsored by Rep. Angelica Rubio of Las Cruces.
With the amendment now approved, New Mexicans can look forward to a legislature that is more accessible to working families, parents, and caregivers who previously faced financial barriers to serving their communities.
What this means for New Mexico families
By linking legislative pay to the median household income, the state aims to ensure that lawmakers share the economic realities of their constituents. This could encourage a broader cross‑section of citizens to consider public service, potentially enriching policy debates with diverse perspectives rooted in everyday life.
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
