Gov. Lujan Grisham signs Senate Bill 11, safeguarding a critical revenue stream for national laboratory communities

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday signed Senate Bill 11.

The new law, approved unanimously in the state House and with bipartisan support in the New Mexico Senate, establishes that 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating national laboratories are not exempt from paying gross receipts taxes, ensuring adjacent New Mexico communities will be able to depend on a steady stream of important revenue.

“This is an important safeguard,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said. “I’m glad legislators addressed the issue with speed and that there was bipartisan agreement on its necessity.”

The governor signed the legislation in a brief ceremony with sponsors in the Cabinet Room.

“Revenue stabilization plays a key role in helping to ensure we have adequate budget funding sources that can be counted on from year to year,” said Sen. Carlos Cisneros. “I want to thank the governor for recognizing this need and signing into law legislation that will protect a critical revenue stream for the state.”

“Los Alamos County and the state as a whole cannot afford to again lose the gross receipts revenues we gave up during the period when the labs were run by the University of California,” said Sen. Richard Martinez. “This bill will see to it that those payments we depend on will continue to be made regardless of the tax exempt status of the lab’s primary contractor, bringing better economic security to northern New Mexico and our entire state.”

“This legislation will ensure that everyone pays their fair share and preserves a secure revenue stream for local governments to provide essential services and programs for New Mexicans,” said Rep. Christine Chandler. “I am proud that this common-sense legislation passed with bipartisan support, and I am confident that it will have a positive impact on communities in my district.”

“As we seek to stabilize revenue streams, we must take steps to protect local communities and the people they serve,” said Rep. Andrea Romero. “This legislation serves as a safeguard for communities to have the resources they need to thrive and access public services. I am grateful for the partnership of the sponsors and Governor Lujan Grisham for making this a priority.”