Submitted by NM Rep. Kathleen Cates, District 44
On November 3, New Mexicans will vote on four amendments to the state Constitution. These bipartisan proposals, passed by the Legislature in 2025 and 2026, would strengthen democratic representation and support our state’s future. I support all four and encourage voters to consider each carefully.
The first amendment, HJR 2 (2025), unanimously approved by the Legislature, would end the governor’s power to reject bills without giving a reason. Today, if the governor does not sign or veto a bill within 20 days after session ends, the bill dies without explanation. From 2014 to 2024, 143 bills met that fate. This amendment would require an explanation, helping legislators improve proposals the following year without limiting the governor’s veto power.
The second amendment, SJR 1 (2026), would remove the constitutional requirement that school elections be held separately from other elections. It would allow the Legislature to move school-board races to even-year general elections, where turnout is higher, and reduce costly special elections for school bonds and other ballot questions.
The third amendment, HJR 1 (2026), would make university-regent nominations more democratic. Regents shape university policy, finances, and decisions that affect students’ futures. Currently, student nominees must come from a list provided by the university president. This amendment would shift that role to student government, create a similar nominating commission for non-student regents, and strengthen guardrails against partisanship. The goal is to ensure qualified applicants can be considered without needing insider connections.
Lastly, HJR 5 (2026) would establish a legislative salary in New Mexico for the first time, equal to the state’s median household income of $64,140, according to the Federal Reserve. Median income better reflects a typical household than extremely high incomes, helping align lawmakers’ incentives with everyday realities. A modest salary would also make public service possible for more New Mexicans and reduce reliance on lobbyists by giving legislators more time for independent research.
This November, voters will hear arguments on both sides of these amendments. I urge New Mexicans to study the proposals, consider their merits, and vote according to their values.