Nation’s only unsalaried legislature in New Mexico asks voters to reconsider volunteer status

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Members of the nation’s only unsalaried legislature are asking voters to reconsider their volunteer status that has endured since statehood in New Mexico.

The state Senate on Tuesday night narrowly endorsed a constitutional amendment that would do away with the state’s prohibition on legislative direct compensation. That allows voters to decide in November whether to tie legislative salaries to the median income level in New Mexico.

After stalling for years, the initiative was promoted successfully this time by a group of young female legislators who have talked about the challenges of balancing work, family and legislative duties.

New Mexico taxpayers already foot the bill for travel expenses, and an allowance for meals and lodging when the Legislature is in session. Many lawmakers also have access to public pension benefits.

New Mexico’s “citizen legislature” of volunteer politicians has long been a source of civic pride in the state. But advocates for professionalizing the New Mexico Legislature say the current system discourages young, working class candidates from serving and can inhibit progress on complex policy issues as legislators juggle separate paid and political careers.

In New York and California, legislative salaries exceed $100,000, while New Hampshire opts for a nominal $100 annually per lawmaker.