The bill amends Section 12-3-4 of the New Mexico Statutes to officially designate a state mineral. Specifically, it introduces the insertion of "STATE MINERAL" into the list of state symbols, and adopts "Smithsonite" as the official mineral of New Mexico. This addition aligns with the state's tradition of recognizing various symbols that represent its natural and cultural heritage.
In addition to the new designation, the bill maintains the existing list of state symbols, which includes the state flower, bird, tree, fish, animal, vegetables, gem, grass, fossil, cookie, insect, question, answer, nickname, butterfly, reptile, amphibian, aircraft, historic railroad, tie, necklace, and aroma. The inclusion of Smithsonite as the official mineral enhances the state's representation of its geological resources.
Statutes affected: introduced version: 12-3-4