House Memorial 6 requests a comprehensive study on the impacts of private equity ownership and control of essential gas and electric utilities, as well as other critical infrastructure in New Mexico. The resolution highlights the importance of these utilities for public health, economic stability, and community well-being, while raising concerns about the transparency and regulatory capacity associated with private equity firms. The study aims to evaluate various aspects, including the differences in outcomes among different ownership models, the effects of private equity on maintenance spending and system reliability, and the potential risks to the state and ratepayers when private equity firms exit their investments.

The legislative finance committee is tasked with convening experts from various state agencies to conduct this study, which will also assess the implications of large-scale data centers on resource demand and the financial burdens placed on residential and small-business ratepayers. The findings and recommendations from the study are to be completed by December 1, 2026, and presented to relevant state bodies, with a focus on identifying statutory, regulatory, or policy options to safeguard public interests and ensure long-term service reliability.