For Immediate Release:
Contact: Chris Nordstrum
(415) 601-1992
Chris.Nordstrum@nmlegis.gov
April 14, 2020
SANTA FE – Today the New Mexico Supreme Court determined that they do not have the legal authority to make the June primary election an entirely vote-by-mail initiative. Voters will continue to have the option to vote by absentee ballot or in person.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth issued the following statement upon hearing the court’s decision: “In these unprecedented times, it is imperative that all New Mexicans have a safe way to vote in the June primaries. After the Supreme Court’s decision it is now more important than ever that voters complete and return the absentee ballot applications mailed to them and eliminate the health risks associated with in-person voting.”
In regard to meeting for a special legislative session, Senate President Pro Tem Mary Kay Papen issued the following statement: “While the legislature cannot convene now, we will meet to address the serious issues facing our state as soon as it is safe to do so. I am confident we can find a solution allowing for a productive in-person session that adequately protects legislators and legislative staff while providing a safe venue for public participation.”
###