Blessings this day. Thanks for all you do.
Here are Advocacy Updates for Federal and State Actions.
Federal Advocacy:
*Continue to highlight the need for Voting Rights when you contact federal legislators.
New Mexico State Legislative Advocacy:
Here are some of the areas we are following and invite your engagement. Check out website for information, and if you are not part of Advocacy alerts and would like to sign up, contact joan@nm-ipl.org.
Join an information update on some bills with guest speakers. Co-sponsored by Interfaith Power and Light NM & El and Citizens Caring for the Future, Tuesday, January 25, 5:00, with this link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81102651152
Bill Sponsors: Rep. Nathan Small, Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill; On the Governor’s Call
Climate change is the largest ethical and moral concern of our moment. We are feeling the effects in our region from drought, fires, health problems, excessive heat and more. We are working on just energy and economic transition that honors Our Common Home and our communities. The Clean Future Act sets ambitious requirements of a 50% reduction of climate pollution in New Mexico by 2030 and at least 90% by 2050. Because New Mexico’s carbon emissions have increased since the 2005 baseline, this would represent a 64% reduction of current levels of climate pollution by 2030. To achieve this, New Mexico will have to begin a thoughtful transformation to clean energy and away from fossil fuels that includes everyone, especially disproportionately impacted communities. Link for Fact Sheet
*HB 37 Community Energy Efficiency Development Grant FACT SHEET
Sponsor: Rep Kristina Ortez
Important to improve utility affordability, reduce energy burden, and increase utility access of low-income New Mexicans. On average those living below poverty line pay 15% of their income toward energy bills alone. Bill improves quality of life, health, climate, and futures.
Action NOW:
Contact Consumer and Public Affairs Committee members by email or phone calls before Tuesday’s 1:30 hearing:
House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee
*NM Environmental Rights Amendment (NM Green Amendment) FACT SHEET
HJR2 and SJR2
The amendment that needs to pass legislation to go to a vote by New Mexicans would constitutionally mandate the New Mexico government officials protect the environmental rights of all residents, including present and future generations. It would allow legal redress when this right is violated by government action or inaction.
Hydrogen Bills
IPL is not supportive of the overall concept of hydrogen, but has been working with others on a memorial to address hydrogen. More information on hydrogen energy at 350.org website where you can access a presentation and slides https://350newmexico.org/350nm-presentations/.
This bill would amend the Radioactive and Nuclear Waste Act, prohibiting the storage or disposal of high level-waste in New Mexico and preventing state agencies from authorizing local permits. NM IPL has engaged with the Holtec storage issue for a number of years. This bill relates to this concern. Sierra Club will offer an overview January 24 at 5:00 with Senator Jeff Steinborn, Don Hancock, and activists that have been working so hard on this specific issue. Click here to RSVP
Exempting Social Security Income From Taxation: FACT SHEET
Solidarity with New Mexico Voices for Children. Half of all seniors-those with low incomes-already pay no income taxes on their Social Security benefits (Individuals earning up to $25,000 or couples earning up to $32,000). And the rest pay only a portion. 87% of value would go to those making more than $50,000. 66% of the value would go to those making more than $75,000. (the top 20% taxpayers.
