New Mexico Lawmakers Propose Ending Unsalaried Legislature

State Senate narrowly endorses constitutional amendment to allow voter decision on legislative salaries.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Members of New Mexico's unsalaried legislature are asking voters to reconsider their volunteer status that has endured since statehood. The state Senate has narrowly endorsed a constitutional amendment that would do away with the state's prohibition on legislative direct compensation, allowing voters to decide in November whether to tie legislative salaries to the median income level in New Mexico.

Why it matters

New Mexico's 'citizen legislature' of volunteer politicians has long been a source of civic pride, but advocates 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. Professionalizing the legislature could make it more representative and effective.

The details

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. 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.

  • On Tuesday night, the state Senate narrowly endorsed the constitutional amendment.
  • Voters will decide on the amendment in November 2026.

The players

New Mexico Legislature

The nation's only unsalaried legislature, which has operated on a volunteer basis since New Mexico's statehood.

Young female legislators

A group of legislators who successfully promoted the initiative to reconsider legislative salaries, citing the challenges of balancing work, family and legislative duties.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Voters in New Mexico will decide on the constitutional amendment to allow legislative salaries in November 2026.

The takeaway

New Mexico's unique unsalaried legislature is reconsidering its volunteer status, with the state Senate endorsing a constitutional amendment to allow voter approval of legislative salaries. This move aims to make the legislature more representative and effective, addressing concerns that the current system discourages young and working-class candidates from serving.