Bill to Reform Game & Fish Department Passes House

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives voted 42-26 to pass Senate Bill 5, which would reform state agencies to better support outdoor recreation and wildlife management in New Mexico. 

Senate Bill 5 would broaden the scope of the state’s Department of Game and Fish beyond its current purview of hunting and fishing, to the protection and management of all wildlife in the state. Accordingly, the agency would be renamed the Department of Wildlife. 

The bill would also expand the voices represented on the State Game Commission, which oversees the Department, by updating its appointment process and member requirements. The bill expands the commission’s rulemaking responsibility for wildlife management and protection, renaming it to the State Wildlife Commission. 

Additionally, SB 5 would adjust fees on many hunting and fishing licenses available in New Mexico, particularly for non-residents, and allow for fees to be raised in future years to account for inflation. 

“Senate Bill 5 will protect New Mexico’s rich hunting and fishing traditions while also making needed reforms to better manage and protect all the diverse wildlife across the state,” said House sponsor Rep. Matthew McQueen (D-Galisteo). “These changes will give the department the proper authority, tools, and funding to keep our wildlife populations healthy and support our outdoor recreation economy, while de-politicizing the appointment processes.” 

SB 5 would establish a nominating committee to provide a list of potential candidates to the Governor to select from when appointing the Wildlife Commission. It would also update requirements for Commission members. Membership would have to include representation from a farmer or rancher, conservationist, a hunter or angler, a wildlife biologist, and a member of Native American nation, tribe, or pueblo. Multiple counties and balanced political ideologies would also need to be represented. 

“New Mexicans are blessed to live in the fourth most biodiverse state. This is consensus legislation that will help us build a 21st century wildlife management system in order to preserve our natural heritage for future generations,” said House sponsor Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces). 

Additional sponsors include Senators Pete Campos (D-Las Vegas), Crystal Brantley (R-Elephant Butte), and Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth (D-Santa Fe). The bill is also supported by more than 20 advocacy organizations, including hunting and fishing groups and conservation advocates alike. 

Senate Bill 5 now heads back to the Senate for the body to concur with amendments made in the House Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee. 

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.

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