Impact of U.S. Government Shutdown Could Hit New Mexico Hard, Say Lawmakers

As the U.S. government faces the imminent threat of a shutdown, New Mexico lawmakers are expressing deep concerns about the potential impact on residents. While a bill to avert the shutdown passed the House, it still needs Senate approval.

One major worry is the disruption of disaster relief for those affected by recent natural disasters, such as the floods in Roswell and the fires in Ruidoso. Another key issue is water access through the farm bill. “New Mexico has suffered from some of the worst wildfires and droughts in its history over the last four to five years, impacting farmers, ranchers, and families who rely on these products,” said Representative Gabe Vasquez (D).

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Vasquez also noted that a third of his district depends on government funding, including salaries for federal employees and service members. A shutdown would mean furloughs for federal workers or forcing them to work without pay. The TSA has warned that an extended shutdown could lead to longer wait times at airports during the busy holiday season. Additionally, New Mexicans who rely on SNAP and WIC benefits could lose access to food assistance during the shutdown.

“A government shutdown would be devastating for New Mexico. In my district, nearly 30,000 federal employees are affected, including active-duty military and law enforcement,” said Representative Melanie Stansbury (D). “These are workers who could be sent home without pay right before the holidays.”

Stansbury emphasized the urgency of passing funding for the farm bill and disaster relief. She reassured residents that social security checks and Medicaid or Medicare benefits would continue. However, if a deal isn’t reached by 9:59 p.m. Mountain Time on Friday, the government will shut down.

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