Dear Friends,

It’s Women's History Month! This month we celebrate the women who walked before us and the women who walk among us. We reflect on what women have achieved, and the challenges we still face. 

Together, we can make sure there is equity for women–from making sure we get the pay we deserve to protecting reproductive rights. 

To New Mexico’s fierce women: thank you for all you do for our beautiful communities. I am here to fight for all of you.

Click here for my message on Women’s History Month. 

Working for New Mexico

Our public lands are precious. I re-introduced a bill to protect the Cerro de la Olla Wilderness so future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty of our state.

I also re-introduced a bill to approve the water rights claims of the Pueblos of Acoma, Jemez, Laguna, and Zia, and participating non-Tribal groups. 

Some of the bills I recently voted for, and the House passed, include: 

• The Wounded Warrior Access Act, to make it easier for our veterans to receive their VA benefits.
• The Understanding Cybersecurity of Mobile Networking Act, to learn about how to keep our networks safe.
• The Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act, to help Americans make informed decisions about their privacy through the technology they buy. 

As we continue to recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire, I’m committed to keeping the government responsible. I signed a letter asking the U.S. Forest Service to detail what they are doing to ensure prescribed burns do not escape. You can read the letter here. 

Celebrating the New Mexico Bilingual Multicultural Education Act 50th Anniversary

Fifty years ago, my parents helped write and pass the Bilingual Multicultural Education Act. This groundbreaking legislation made New Mexico the first state to adopt a law that recognizes language and culture are inseparable. 

Today, 70% of New Mexico’s school districts practice bilingual instruction. To celebrate this milestone, I introduced a resolution, recognizing the significance of the 1973 New Mexico Bilingual Multicultural Education Act on its 50th anniversary.

Constituent Services

Remember, if you have any problems with a federal agency, my constituent services team may be able to help you. You can reach us at (505) 428-4680.

Veterans Property Tax Exemption/Waiver Clinics 

The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (DVS) will hold veterans property tax waiver and exemption clinics around the district starting March 22nd. For more information view the DVS Calendar HERE. 

Veterans Affairs Hiring Fair

The New Mexico VA Medical Center will host a Hiring Fair on Saturday, March 18th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

For more information, visit New Mexico VA Hiring Fair.

Taxpayer Advocate Service

Have a tax problem you haven’t been able to resolve with the IRS? The independent Taxpayer Advocate Service will help taxpayers on its problem-solving day on March 31st. 

Call 505-737-6308 by March 28th to make an appointment.

 It's Time to Renew, NM! 

Make sure your contact information is correct and up to date to receive important Medicaid and SNAP renewal notices. Chat with the Human Services Department to update your information here: YES NM.

Farm-to-Congress 2023

Every five years, Congress passes legislation that sets national agriculture, nutrition, conservation, and forestry policy, commonly referred to as the “Farm Bill.”  

I want to hear your ideas and proposals for the 2023 Farm Bill, as well as feedback about the 2018 Farm Bill. Submit your feedback here: Farm to Congress 2023. 

Affordable Connectivity Program

Reminder: the Affordable Connectivity Program can help you pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet. Find out if you qualify and how to apply at affordableconnectivity.gov.

Follow me on Twitter @RepTeresaLF!