Today, Senate Bill 5, a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at modernizing New Mexico’s wildlife management system, passed the senate on a bipartisan vote of 28-12. The bill recognizes New Mexico’s long and proud tradition of responsible wildlife management, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy a healthy wildlife population and a thriving outdoor economy.
Senate Bill 5, Game Commission Reform, is the result of months of negotiations with a diverse coalition of stakeholders including hunters and anglers, conservationists, animal rights advocates, farmers, and ranchers from across the political spectrum. The measure seeks to reform the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and revitalize the State Game Commission, and changes their respective names to the Wildlife Department and the State Wildlife Commission to more accurately reflect the broader mission of each organization.
“This bill represents the best of New Mexico – a true collaboration across all sectors of society for a common cause,” said bill sponsor Pete Campos (D – Las Vegas). “From hunters and anglers to conservationists and ranchers, we have come together to ensure that our state’s wildlife management system is equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
Key Provisions of Senate Bill 5:
- Reforming the Game Commission: Senate Bill 5 aims to transform the Game Commission into a more effective, representative body. The bill addresses the lack of qualified candidates for commission positions, ensuring a more balanced, functional board that will oversee hunting and fishing regulations and manage the department’s annual budget. It introduces qualifications for commissioners, while maintaining executive appointment power, and ensures input from both the legislature and the public.
- The bill also makes updates to hunting and fishing license fees, which have remained unchanged for nearly two decades. The new fees will generate essential funding to sustain wildlife conservation efforts, while keeping costs manageable for New Mexico residents. The increase is projected at approximately $15 annually per resident. The bill also preserves discounts for seniors, youth, veterans, and people with disabilities.
- Senate Bill 5 clarifies existing law to enable the Department of Game and Fish to manage additional species, such as pollinators and beavers, based on scientific findings. This approach would help maintain New Mexico’s rich biodiversity while ensuring landowners’ rights are respected.
“Healthy wildlife means healthy communities, a healthy economy, and healthy food sources for New Mexicans,” said fellow sponsor Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth (D-Santa Fe). “This is a balanced approach that honors our state’s hunting and fishing traditions while ensuring the future of our wildlife populations.”
Senate Bill 5 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed strong support for the measure, recognizing the importance of preserving New Mexico’s natural heritage.
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