The Roundhouse in Santa Fe. (Photo by Peter St. Cyr)
As we begin the most crucial legislative session that New Mexico has seen in decades, I would like to take the time to dispel a few rumors.
• Myth 1: Your legislators don’t get along.
While the differences between Republicans and Democrats can be stark, especially this session, the truth remains that we all want to support education, create an environment for businesses to flourish, and reform our justice system to better protect the innocent.
I am confident that these common goals will inspire compromise and, in turn, yield some of our best decisions.
• Myth 2: There is only room for one party.
The legislative process allows for two voices, not just a rubber-stamp legislature. It is through careful evaluation of bills and thoughtful drafting of amendments that good legislation comes to fruition.
While it is true that the 25 of us cannot set the agenda, we will serve New Mexicans this session by concentrating on solutions to our most pressing problems in a bi-partisan manner. The Transparency In Government Act is just one example of a substantive bill that is expected to have widespread support.
Tom Taylor
• Myth 3. The budget crisis will work itself out.
Unemployment remains high in New Mexico, while tax revenues have declined since 2008. This cycle of economic downturn is clearly especially long. The decision regarding taxation and spending will make an enormous impact on our economy.
We cannot continue to rely on federal bailouts. The administration has increased the growth of government by more than 41 percent in the last seven years while population growth has increased only by 6 percent.
The only way to improve is to acknowledge the figures as they are, instead of using credit cards and Band Aids. We must think of the future.
• Myth 4. Constituents can’t do anything at this point.
It is important that you stay informed, and share your opinions with your legislators. In addition to comprehensive reporting from our media outlets, you will be offered more direct coverage of session proceedings than ever before.
At the Republican House Legislative Caucus, for instance, we plan to webcast many of the floor sessions and committee hearings. This year, we will also feature blogs from members of the caucus, and communicate regularly on Twitter and Facebook.
Call your legislators, write letters-to-the-editor, talk to your friends and family in New Mexico and encourage them to do the same. State government operates best when it listens to the ideas of its citizens.
• Myth 5. This session is about legacy.
Governors are evaluated by their entire tenure, not just the last legislative session. The administration has already defined itself with massive government growth and little action in the face of declining revenues. In the midst of this strident fiscal crisis, now is not the time for the governor to broaden the agenda for his own legacy.
This legislature is poised to work together to move forward and put New Mexico on track for a more prosperous tomorrow.
Taylor, a Republican House member from Farmington, is the minority leader.