Image representing drinking water funding
SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – As the weekend approaches, lawmakers show no sign of slowing down as they continue discussing proposed legislation. Coming up on the agenda are discussions on bills to fund clean water and healthcare efforts.
Drinking water loan fund
New Mexico has a fund to help finance the construction of drinking water infrastructure. Communities can apply to the fund, called the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund, to complete the installation of distribution lines or interconnect existing pipe systems and expand access to water, the state’s finance authority says.
Today, lawmakers in the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee are set to discuss House Bill 29. That would put $6 million towards the drinking water loan fund to match federal funding. The bill would also make appropriations to a handful of other government funds.
Healthcare bills
Lawmakers are also scheduled to discuss a few bills that would impact healthcare in the state. The House Health and Human Services Committee is set to consider House Bill 26, which would put over $500 million towards increasing the spending limit for eligible Medicaid recipients who are making improvements to their home to increase their quality of life (such as installing ramps or grab-bars).
The committee will also consider House Bill 34, a bill that would give the state’s Health Care Authority $400,000 to study the benefits and costs of creating a state-operated long-term rehabilitation facility. The idea behind the bill is to better treat New Mexicans facing substance use disorders.
