FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 11, 2025

Contact:
Alex Eubanks, Southwest Energy Efficiency Project
aeubanks@swenergy.org

[SANTA FE, NM] – New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham yesterday signed House Bill 91, the Public Utility Rate Structures Act, into law. Sponsored by Representative Kristina Ortez and Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, the new law authorizes the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission to consider low-income rate proposals from investor-owned utilities — a major step toward making energy bills more affordable for thousands of households across the state.

“With the Governor’s signature, HB91 becomes law — and New Mexico takes a major step toward building a utility system that works for everyone,” said Alex Eubanks, New Mexico Representative for the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP). “Inspired by proven policies in neighboring states, this new law empowers regulators to provide targeted relief to those most burdened by energy costs. It’s a smart, compassionate solution for long-term affordability.”

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, New Mexicans living below the federal poverty level spend an average of 20% of their income on energy bills — five times the level considered affordable. In counties such as Socorro, De Baca, Mora, Taos, and Rio Arriba, the burden can be even higher.

“HB91 is a win for families across New Mexico who are struggling with high energy costs,” said Ortez, the bill’s House sponsor. “It’s about fairness. It’s about dignity. And it’s about ensuring that everyone can afford essential services, regardless of income.”

More than 20 states — including neighboring Arizona and Colorado — have successfully implemented low-income utility rate programs to reduce energy burdens and improve access to affordable services.

With HB91 now signed into law, investor-owned utilities can begin bringing forward low-income rate proposals for consideration by the Public Regulation Commission. The law provides a clear path to address high energy burdens through targeted rate design and opens the door to thoughtful, data-driven solutions that support the customers who need help most.

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The Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP) is a public interest organization promoting greater energy efficiency, clean transportation, and beneficial electrification in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. swenergy.org