Position on economy, crime and taxes

1. New Mexico is highly reliant on the oil and natural gas industries to generate revenue to fund state programs, as evidenced by recent oil boom and bust cycles. What steps should the Legislature take to diversify the state’s economy and revenue base? Zanetti: I believe New Mexico should be the Water, Energy, and Technology State. We have abundant “low-tech” natural resources and brilliant “high-tech” minds. When low-tech and high-tech are combined, economies flourish. For example, New Mexico should pursue water desalination facilities powered by small-modular nuclear reactors to provide both high and low-tech jobs.

2. What steps should the Legislature take to address crime and public safety amid a rise in violent crime rates?

Zanetti: We must end the revolvingdoor policy of allowing violent criminals back out on the streets to reoffend. We must also restore cash bonds, ensure our police have the tools and resources to keep our communities safe, and stop the “Defund the Police” rhetoric that has become popular at the Roundhouse. 3. What changes, if any, should New Mexico make to its gross receipts tax code? Zanetti: Move to sales tax. GRT harms our economy, stifles wealth creation, and places an unfair burden on small businesses. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s 0.25% GRT reduction was a political stunt. Initially, let’s lower the rate further, end GRT for business services, and reform the exemption process. Ultimately, GRT must be replaced with a more equitable sales tax structure.

To read the complete questionnaire, visit ABQjournal. com/election-guide