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Las Cruces Today
By the People, for the People
Budget Proposal Heads to Governor's Desk After Senate Passage
Lawmakers also create commission to investigate Jeffrey Epstein's ties to New Mexico
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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The New Mexico legislature has passed a $11.1 billion budget proposal, the largest in state history, which now heads to the governor's desk for final approval. Lawmakers also created a commission to investigate Jeffrey Epstein's activities in the state. Additionally, a bill to codify universal childcare in New Mexico advanced through a key committee.
Why it matters
The budget proposal represents a significant increase in state spending and will impact funding for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other key priorities. The Epstein commission aims to shed light on any potential wrongdoing or cover-ups related to the convicted sex offender's ties to New Mexico. The universal childcare bill, if passed, would cement an important social program in the state.
The details
The $11.1 billion budget proposal, known as HB 2, passed the state Senate 23-16 after nearly two hours of debate. It now heads back to the House for final approval before going to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. The budget is over a quarter-billion dollars more than last year's spending plan. Separately, the House passed a resolution to create the Epstein Truth Commission, which will investigate whether state officials properly looked into allegations of criminal activity at Epstein's Zorro Ranch. The commission will also determine if any legislative action, such as victim compensation, is needed. Meanwhile, the House Appropriations and Finance Committee advanced Senate Bill 241, which would codify universal childcare assistance statewide.
- The budget proposal, HB 2, was debated for nearly two hours on the Senate floor before passing on February 17, 2026.
- The House passed the resolution to create the Epstein Truth Commission on February 16, 2026.
- The House Appropriations and Finance Committee advanced Senate Bill 241 on the morning of February 17, 2026.
The players
Michelle Lujan Grisham
The Governor of New Mexico who will receive the budget proposal for final approval.
Tomas Rivas
A man convicted of first-degree murder for his role in a deadly shooting at an unsanctioned car show in Las Cruces.
Jeffrey Epstein
The convicted sex offender whose ties to New Mexico will be investigated by the newly created Epstein Truth Commission.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the Tomas Rivas case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.
The takeaway
This budget proposal represents a significant investment in New Mexico's future, while the Epstein commission and universal childcare bill aim to address important social and legal issues in the state. The diverse legislative actions demonstrate the wide-ranging priorities of state lawmakers.
