Joint Resolution would allow voters to decide whether to give the state greater oversight of regents at higher education institutions

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation that would allow voters to decide whether to strengthen oversight of regents at the state’s higher education institutions by a 64-1 vote.

House Joint Resolution 12 would clearly detail regents’ responsibilities to the students and institutions they serve and provide the state with authority to take disciplinary actions, including potential removal, of regents who violate their duties. 

“The leaders of our state’s colleges and universities have an obligation to act in good faith and in service of the students, faculty, staff, and the taxpayers who help fund these institutions,” said lead sponsor Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces). “HJR 12 would allow New Mexicans to hold regents accountable for ethically fulfilling their duties, spending funds appropriately, and maintaining the integrity of our higher education system.” 

HJR 12 also includes strong guardrails to ensure the state’s disciplinary authority cannot be misused for political purposes. Removal actions may only be filed by the state’s Attorney General or a majority of the fellow members of the institution’s board of regents and would be under the jurisdiction of district courts.

The introduction of HJR 12 follows broad concern from lawmakers and the public around the $1.9 million separation agreement given to former Western New Mexico University President Joe Shepard by the university’s regents. This exorbitant payout came on the heels of the State Auditor’s Office finding that Shepard had engaged in wasteful spending and improper use of public funds. 

HJR 12 now moves to the Senate. If passed by both chambers of the legislature, the proposed Constitutional Amendment would then be on the ballot in the November 2026 election. The legislation is also sponsored byReps. Charlotte Little (D-Albuquerque), Sarah Silva (D-Las Cruces), Anita Gonzales (D-Las Vegas), andHouse Speaker Javier Martínez (D-Albuquerque). 

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.