A future worth working for: clean air, good jobs, and climate justice

New Mexico just accelerated our path forward to build a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone. With the passage of the Community Benefit Fund (Senate Bill 48) and the Innovation in State Government Fund (Senate Bill 83), the state is proving that smart, community-driven climate action isn’t just possible—it’s already happening. 

These wins are the result of years of hard work by advocates, lawmakers, and New Mexicans from across the state who believe in a future where clean energy, good jobs, and resilient communities go hand in hand. The Community Benefit Fund is a groundbreaking initiative that puts real money into local projects that create jobs, expand clean energy, and equip communities to build resilience in the face of climate challenges and adapt to climate changes. Whether it’s building energy-efficient homes, strengthening disaster response centers, or bringing reliable solar and wind power to rural areas, this fund will make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

The Innovation in Government Act will help state agencies tackle climate change head-on by giving them the tools and resources they need to plan for the future. Having strong policies is one thing—but making sure agencies have the funding and capacity to enforce them is just as important. Together, these two bills move New Mexico closer to a future where climate action is proactive rather than reactive.

As exciting as these wins are, New Mexicans know the fight isn’t over. The next big challenge is getting enforceable comprehensive climate pollution reduction targets ready to pass next session—and that work is underway. Recent polling shows that 77% of New Mexicans support the government taking action to reduce carbon and methane pollution that contribute to climate change.  The need for action is increasingly urgent as the second Trump administration continues to prioritize corporate profits over the health and wellbeing of us all. 

The Clear Horizons Act is the next major step. This bill establishes statewide limits on greenhouse gas emissions, holding polluters accountable and pushing New Mexico toward a carbon-free future. 

While the Clear Horizons Act didn’t make it through the legislature this time, momentum is growing. Alongside the Clear Horizons Coalition, we will roll up our sleeves over the next year to make sure comprehensive climate pollution reduction targets cross the finish line next session. 

Over the coming months, we’ll bring together businesses, labor groups, Tribal and Navajo leaders, and local communities to make the case that clean energy means good jobs, long-term savings, and a safer future. We’re committed to working together to refine the Clear Horizons Act to make sure it’s ambitious, effective, achievable, and focused on large source emitters —not every day New Mexicans who rely on propane, wood burning stoves, or make their living by ranching. 

New Mexico has already shown what’s possible with bold climate action—from the Energy Transition Act to the Community Benefit Fund. The Clear Horizons Act can be our next step forward. The path to clean air, climate justice, and economic opportunity is within reach. Now, we have to work together to make it real.

Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, is the Senate Pro Tempore and Rep. Kristina Ortez, D-Taos, serves in the state House of Representatives.