State Reps discuss proposals to address New Mexico budget deficit

With plummeting oil prices, the state of New Mexico has found itself facing a huge budget deficit. Residents in Las Cruces have already seen the effects, with cuts to universities and schools.

ABC-7 asked newly elected state representatives what changes they want to bring during the next legislative session.

Newly elected State Representative for District 36 Nathan Small (D) and third time State Representative for District 53 Rick Little (R) both agreed jobs are the number one way to boost the economy.

Small says he’ll focus on bringing renewable energy, infrastructure and agriculture jobs.

“With green chili, our Hatch green chili has expanded its market just by really robustly protecting its brand,” Small said. “We have to look at how we do that, how we get more value out of products.”

Smith said he wants to focus on making it it less expensive for businesses to obtain liquor licenses, he also wants to bring more manufacturing jobs to the state.

“We’re doing everything we can to intensify businesses to come here ,” Little said.

The next legislative session begins January 17.