Should New Mexico Pay Its Lawmakers | Albuquerque News

New Mexico’s lawmakers have never been paid a salary—until now, as voters head to the polls this November to decide whether to change that historic tradition. While some, like former Rep. Jim Dines, argue unpaid service keeps politics pure and prevents career politicians from dominating, others, including UNM professor Tim Krebs, say paying lawmakers could attract more diverse, qualified candidates and make public service accessible to those not retired or independently wealthy. With over 100 lawmakers and potential annual costs in the millions, the debate hinges on whether unpaid service still serves the public—or if it’s time to pay the people who make the laws. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1cfc41fafffcf4d5