Rep. Maestas Participates in First Annual “New Mexico Economics Research Day” at UNM
Researchers presented findings from New Mexico-focused economics research supported by appropriations from Rep. Maestas
Albuquerque, N.M. - Representative Antonio “Moe” Maestas (D-Albuquerque) joined researchers at University of New Mexico’s Department of Economics today, as they presented findings from New Mexico-centric economics research. Funding for the research came from an appropriation made by Rep. Maestas in SB 1, known as the “Junior Bill.”
Research projects discussed included:
Early Childhood Interventions in New Mexico: Short- and Medium-Term Outcomes, Dr. Kira Villa
Ozone Pollution in New Mexico: An Economic Analysis of its Human Health Impacts and Damages, Dr. Andrew Goodkind & Dr. Benjamin Jones
Effects of Cannabis Home Cultivation on Residential Water Use in New Mexico, Dr. Sarah Stith & Dr. Janie Chermak
The Economics Consequences of Liquor Laws and Regulations in New Mexico, Dr. David Dixon & Dr. Brady Horn
“Our state has enormous economic potential. As lawmakers, our job is to help harness that potential, so that all New Mexicans can benefit, which is why it was so important to me to fund this research,” said Rep. Moe Maestas, who serves as Chair of the Commerce and Economic Development Committee of the New Mexico House of Representatives. “UNM is home to incredible scholars and researchers who can help policymakers understand what economic policies will have the most beneficial impact on our state.”
Rep. Maestas' priorities include policies that expand markets, reducing barriers to licenses and starting a business, and investing in infrastructure to spur economic growth.
Additionally, Rep. Maestas co-sponsored the Early Childhood Education Amendment, a measure on the ballot this fall allowing New Mexico voters to decide to tap 1.25% of the state’s $24.4 billion Land Grant Permanent Fund to make transformative investments in the youngest New Mexicans and help lift an entire generation out of poverty.
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