Commission backs HB6 to require prevailing wage on IRB-supported projects, 3-1

The Bernalillo County Commission voted 3-1 on Feb. 11 to adopt a resolution supporting House Bill 6, a state measure that would require employers receiving industrial revenue bond (IRB) tax abatement to pay the New Mexico prevailing wage on public projects supported by those abatements.

Chair Olivas, sponsor of the county resolution, said the measure asks project developers who receive public tax abatement to meet minimum wage standards on the projects they build using those public benefits. "If you are receiving funds through an industrial revenue bond'... then you are required to pay the prevailing wage," Olivas said.

Public comment reflected the debate. Adam Silverman, a commercial real estate developer, urged the commission to oppose prevailing-wage requirements, saying, "what you're actually creating is a tax," and arguing the policy would raise project costs and discourage development. In contrast, Stephanie Mays, representing the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 611 and the New Mexico Building and Construction Trades Council, said, "We strongly urge you to endorse this bill." Joan Baker of the United Association local 412, Rhonda Gilliland Lopez of the Mechanical Contractors Association and Leticia Vigil of the New Mexico National Electrical Contractors Association also spoke in support.

Commissioner Benson said he opposed the resolution, arguing that adding prevailing-wage requirements on IRB projects would make New Mexico less competitive and could deter job-creating investment. Commissioners Olson, Frank Baca and Barbara Baca supported the resolution, citing worker protections, equity and long-term public costs if workers require safety-net services.

The resolution passed on a 3-1 vote. The board's support is advisory to the state legislature and does not change county code.