The bill proposes an appropriation of $200,000 from the general fund to the Board of Regents of the University of New Mexico for the Political Science Department. The funding is designated for conducting research in fiscal year 2026, specifically focusing on collecting and analyzing demographic data of individuals who speak for or against housing- or construction-related matters at zoning and planning meetings or city council hearings in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. The research aims to gather detailed demographic information, including age, sex, race, homeownership status, place of birth, and whether the individual represents a neighborhood or homeowner association.

The findings from this research will be compiled into a report that must be submitted to the governor, the legislative finance committee, and other relevant legislative committees by June 30, 2026. Additionally, any unspent funds at the end of fiscal year 2026 will revert back to the general fund. This initiative seeks to enhance understanding of community engagement in housing and construction discussions within these cities.