The People’s House Map Passes on the House Floor
Incorporating the CRC’s concept maps & endorsed by NM’s tribes, nations, and pueblos, HB 8 passes the House floor
Santa Fe, N.M. – House Bill 8, which reflects the population and demographic changes New Mexico has experienced over the past decade and makes needed updates to New Mexico’s House of Representative districts, passed the House floor tonight.
Known as the People’s House Map, House Bill 8 is based on the initial Concept E map of the Citizen Redistricting Committee (CRC) and the historic tribal consensus reached between the state’s 19 pueblos, the Jicarilla Apache and Navajo Nation, mapping out the Northwest quadrant. House Bill 8 also strengthens the voices of historically marginalized Hispanic and Native communities while preserving the cultural significance of districts throughout New Mexico.
“New Mexico has experienced significant changes over the last 10 years, not only through increased urbanization, but also through growth in diversity,” said HB 8 sponsor Rep. Daymon Ely (D-Corrales). “House Bill 8 responsibly adjusts House districts to incorporate for these changes. Its passage today is a testament to the immense amount of work that the CRC and Native American leaders put into the process to ensure what’s best for New Mexicans statewide.”
The bill makes essential updates to current House Districts to reflect significant population growth in areas like Las Cruces, Sandoval County, and Albuquerque’s West Side. For instance, Albuquerque experienced significant growth on its West Side, necessitating the move of a North Valley seat to that area. And after years of an unnecessarily divided Grant County, Silver City is now in one sensible and compact district, allowing its community of interest to elect a Representative who values their interests.
House Bill 8 passed the House of Representatives 43-23 along party lines, and now goes to the Senate for consideration.
To view the House Bill 8 map, members of the public are encouraged to visit the New Mexico Legislature's website.
The Roundhouse is open to the public for this special session, and proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Virtual public participation will also be available. 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.
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