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New Mexico Reform Bill SB 5 Passes the Senate

Mar 4, 2025 | State Wildlife Management

Great news: New Mexico wildlife governance reform bill SB 5 passes the Senate.

An image of the logo of the coalition to pass SB 5 with the message, "SB 5 passes the Senate with a 28-12 bipartisan vote."

 

Momentum for Wildlife: SB 5 Passes the Senate—Onward to the House!

Big news out of New Mexico! Senate Bill 5 has officially passed the Senate with strong bipartisan support and is now headed to the House of Representatives. With three weeks left in the legislative session, we’re calling on House members to get this historic bill across the finish line!

SB 5 is a groundbreaking step for wildlife governance:
SB 5 represents a rare and powerful example of bipartisan leadership and broad coalition-building. Conservation advocates, hunters, scientists, and policymakers from across the political spectrum came together to support this bill, which will provide the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish with the tools, authority, and funding needed to modernize wildlife management.

This is not just a victory for New Mexico—it’s a model for the nation. SB 5 proves that when we prioritize science, ecosystems, and public interest over outdated special-interest politics, we can build a future where wildlife and people thrive together.

Thank you to everyone who made this possible. This victory wouldn’t have happened without the leadership of Senators Wirth, Campos, and Brantley, as well as the many organizations and individuals who worked tirelessly to push this bill forward. We are proud to be part of a coalition of 20+ organizations representing tens of thousands of New Mexicans who support this effort.

What’s Next?

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where we need all hands on deck to ensure its passage before the session ends on March 22. Stay tuned for action alerts—we need your voice to make sure New Mexico leads the way in creating a wildlife management system that works for all.

Screenshot of an op-ed by SB 5's sponsors in the Santa Fe New Mexican to celebrate SB 5 passes in the Senate.

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