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Panel backs bill to continue military base impact fund and support installations
Summary
House Bill 158 would reauthorize a military base impact fund to support infrastructure projects that benefit New Mexico's installations and surrounding communities. The committee adopted an amendment removing an appropriation and voted to advance the bill; local military, economic development and veterans groups testified in favor.
The House Appropriations & Finance Committee recommended House Bill 158, a measure to support military installations and nearby communities through a military base impact fund.
Sponsor testimony said the fund would support projects at installations including Kirtland Air Force Base, Cannon, Holloman and White Sands Missile Range. Committee members adopted an amendment removing a standalone appropriation; proponents said the fund had previously carried a $12,000,000 appropriation that was not present in the bill text before amendment. Witnesses from Kirtland Partnership and the lieutenant governor's office said the office was prepared to support implementation if the fund is appropriated.
Why it matters: Supporters said investments in infrastructure and community services sustain missions, retain skilled workers and expand economic benefits for veterans and military families. The New Mexico Veterans and Military Families Caucus told the committee investments are critical to employment opportunities for veterans and service members.
Public comment: Representatives from the Kirtland Partnership, the lieutenant governor's office and veteran advocates testified in support; an industry representative also flagged a prior committee discussion about notice periods and amendments.
Vote and next steps: Ranking Member Chatfield moved a due pass recommendation for the committee substitute as amended; the motion was seconded and the committee recorded no recorded opposition in the transcript excerpt. The office of military base planning and support said it stands ready to help implement the fund if appropriated.
