Memorial aims to create state music playlist
SANTA FE — New Mexico already has a state cowboy song and a Spanish-language state song, among other official ditties.
But there could be a slew of additional state-recognized tunes — including a state green chile song — under legislation pending at the Roundhouse.
Senate Memorial 116, filed by Sen. Pete Campos, D-Las Vegas, would request the state Cultural Affairs Department hold contests to select an official state winter holiday song, a green chile song and a New Mexico True song, presumably for use in state tourism marketing efforts.
The state agency would solicit entries for the contests, and members of the public would then be allowed to vote for their choices.
It was not immediately clear Tuesday whether the winning performer might receive a lifetime supply of green chile. — Dan Boyd, dboyd@abqjournal.com
SOLAR TAX CREDIT: A proposal to reinstate an income tax credit for homes and businesses that install solar panels is headed to the House f loor.
Senate Bill 79, sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, would bring back a tax credit that expired in 2016.
Stewart said it would help make solar energy more affordable, especially as new tariffs are expected to drive up the cost.
The proposal passed the Senate on a 35-6 vote earlier this week, and it cleared a House committee 9-6 on Tuesday. — Dan McKay, dmckay@abqjournal.com
RETIRING: Rep. Jim Smith, a Tijeras Republican with a reputation for working across the aisle, is retiring from the state House this year, creating an open seat in the East Mountains.
He was honored by his colleagues Tuesday for the pragmatic approach that allowed him to get so much legislation passed.
Smith is a retired teacher who joined the House eight years ago.
He is one of at least six House members who are not seeking re-election this year, either because they’re seeking higher office or retiring.
The other five are Reps. Nick Salazar, D-Ohkay Owingeh; Bill McCamley, D-Las Cruces; Dennis Roch, R-Logan; Yvette Herrell, R-Alamogordo, and Stephanie Garcia Richard, D-White Rock.