New Mexico governor signs bills to bolster food aid, healthcare, broadcasting after federal cuts

State sets aside $17M to replace expiring health insurance credits as costs climb and COVID-era subsidies end

By Asiye Latife Yilmaz

ISTANBUL (AA) - New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Friday signed a package of bills aimed at protecting food aid, rural healthcare and public broadcasting after federal budget reductions and rising health insurance costs.

US President Donald Trump’s major bill and growing concerns over increasing health insurance premiums have prompted the state’s latest legislation.

The move comes as COVID-era subsidies for New Mexico’s Affordable Care Act exchange are set to end — a key issue in the Washington budget fight and the related federal government shutdown.

Under legislation, New Mexico will allocate $17 million to replace federal credits if they are not renewed.

The Democratic-led Legislature this week approved $162 million in state spending for rural health services, food assistance, restocking food banks, public broadcasting and other social support programs.

“When federal support falls short, New Mexico steps up -- that’s our commitment to families who depend on these services,” Grisham said in a statement.

“This funding protects the basics: food security, affordable health care, and access to care,” she added.

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