Grant Opportunities Council Bill Passes Committee with Bipartisan Support

Santa Fe, NM-  HB 62, which would create the Grants Opportunities Council, passed the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee today with a unanimous 9-0 vote. This council would support New Mexican municipalities to research and apply for federal and other grants, making it easier for rural and underserved communities to access these crucial funds. 

The bill also creates a $1 million Grants Matching Fund, administered by The Department of Finance & Administration, to help municipalities qualify for grants requiring a match. Many grants require applicants to contribute a match, or a fraction of the cost of a project, which can be a barrier to eligibility for smaller, more rural communities that may lack those matching funds. The council and fund will prioritize supporting rural and underserved communities, which need more resources and assistance throughout the grant writing and application process. 

“By reducing barriers and helping our rural communities qualify for these grants, we can bring money into underserved communities and create a big return on investment,” said Representative  Meredith Dixon (D-Albuquerque).

Increasing the capabilities for these communities to apply for and receive grant funds will bring more investment and infrastructure to municipalities across New Mexico, particularly in rural areas.

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Dixon, Rep. Susan Herrera (D-Embudo), Rep. Christine Chandler (D-Los Alamos), and Rep. Kristina Ortez (D-Taos).

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.  

###