House - Chamber Meeting [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming a quorum, followed by an invocation by Representative Sapansky and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Representative Lujan. The Speaker opened the floor for announcements, noting it was the last day of the session. Members shared light-hearted comments and expressed gratitude for their colleagues and committees, emphasizing unity and collaboration. Representative Johnson expressed gratitude in Navajo, and various representatives reflected on their experiences during the session, acknowledging the contributions of different committees and staff. Representative Cerrato recognized the Rural Development, Land Grants, and Cultural Affairs Committee, while others thanked custodial and security personnel. A certificate was read declaring Brittany, a Chihuahua, the unofficial mascot of the House. The House awaited Senate action on Senate Bill 273, confirmed by the Senate Chief Clerk. The third reading of legislation began with a consent calendar. House Memorial IV was introduced, requesting a study on expanding health insurance for public higher education educators and graduate student employees, which passed with a vote of 36 in favor and 23 against. House Memorial 30, requesting a study on public education governance, and House Memorial 24, regarding the restructuring of the Las Vegas land grant, both passed unanimously. Members expressed gratitude towards staff and colleagues, acknowledging the challenges faced during the session. Concerns were raised about state policies on education and healthcare, particularly regarding minors. A discussion ensued about healthcare costs related to gender transition surgeries, with a speaker emphasizing the need for change to support families with traditional values. The meeting included a discussion on a memorial related to the importance of insects, introduced by the Wild Friends program. Representatives praised the initiative and the involvement of students in environmental advocacy. The conversation highlighted the need for interagency collaboration and education on ecological practices. Members shared personal anecdotes about their interactions with Wild Friends students and emphasized the importance of connecting youth to environmental issues. The meeting also discussed the potential for educational programs about insects and the need for public awareness campaigns. A member shared experiences from Butterfly Wonderland, expressing a desire for similar programs in southwest New Mexico. The discussion concluded with a motion to pass House Memorial 26, which aimed to protect insects, passing with a vote of 54 in favor and 2 against. Subsequent ceremonial memorials also passed unanimously. The meeting wrapped up with a light-hearted suggestion for a flash mob in future sessions. Members expressed gratitude for their committees and staff contributions. After a recess, the House moved to announcements, reading messages from the Senate about various bills. House Memorial 66, requesting a study on a possible border crossing fee at Santa Teresa, passed unanimously with a vote of 58 in favor. The House then appointed committees to inform the Senate and the Governor of their completion of work and voted to adjourn sine die.