This joint resolution proposes an amendment to Article 4 of the New Mexico Constitution to establish a "Citizen Commission on Legislative Salaries." This independent state agency would be responsible for setting, adjusting, and limiting the salaries of members of the legislature. The commission would consist of nine public members, with political party representation limited to four from the same party. The commission is tasked with reviewing and researching legislative salaries, adopting a final report on its findings, and submitting this report to the Secretary of State by October 1, 2028, and every four years thereafter. Any salary changes would take effect in July following the report's filing, requiring an affirmative vote from at least five commission members.
Additionally, the resolution seeks to amend Article 4, Section 10 of the New Mexico Constitution to outline the compensation structure for legislators. This includes per diem rates set by the federal General Services Administration for attendance during legislative sessions and for interim committee meetings, as well as a salary determined by the newly established commission. The proposed amendment will be submitted to the public for approval or rejection during the next general election or any special election called for that purpose.