Sen. Martin Heinrich (D‑NM) announced a substitute amendment to the landmark Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act on Saturday, responding to growing demonstrations from tribal leaders, Pueblo governors and environmental advocates. The amendment seeks to incorporate feedback received since the bill’s introduction in September, particularly on matters affecting sacred lands and the emerging data‑center industry.
Key changes in the amendment
Heinrich said the amendment makes “targeted changes” that elevate tribal leaders and governments in permitting and environmental review processes. It also creates a Data Center Community Assistance Program, which would provide state, local and tribal governments with information on the energy, water, infrastructure, economic and community impacts of data‑center development upon request.
Tribal and environmental concerns
The All Pueblo Council of Governors, representing 20 Pueblo nations, voiced strong criticism of the original bill, arguing that it could undermine federal protections for sacred sites. The council relies on the National Historic Preservation Act and related statutes to ensure a voice in major federal decisions affecting their lands. National Congress of American Indians President Mark Macarro warned that “if this is really about green energy, there’s an opportunity … to get profound changes to policy on energy that doesn’t do it at the expense of sacred sites.”
Heinrich’s defense of the legislation
Despite the opposition, Heinrich reaffirmed his support for the overall bill, emphasizing its projected benefits for New Mexicans. “When you look at it as a whole, it dramatically increases clean energy on the grid, it brings down prices, it is designed to create 20,000 New Mexican jobs, and it reduces emissions,” he said. He noted that Democratic lawmakers compromised with Republicans to pass the legislation, though he declined to specify which provisions were altered.
Political context
The amendment arrives as the Trump administration continues to promote energy independence and job creation, aligning with broader federal goals of expanding clean‑energy infrastructure while protecting local interests. By addressing tribal input and data‑center impacts, the amendment attempts to balance economic development with cultural preservation—a balance that resonates with many New Mexican families who value both job growth and the protection of their heritage.
What’s next?
The substitute amendment will now return to the Senate for further debate and a vote. Lawmakers will consider whether the proposed changes adequately address the concerns raised by Pueblo leaders and environmental groups while preserving the bill’s intended economic and environmental outcomes.
Stakeholders, including tribal representatives, data‑center developers, and local business leaders, are expected to continue lobbying for additional safeguards or incentives as the legislative process moves forward.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
