New Mexico lawmakers propose creating grocery commission to lower food prices
SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – Amid rising grocery prices, can New Mexico do more to battle back against higher costs? That's what a state lawmaker is now hoping for. Three Democrats are backing a bill to create a new state group, dedicated at bringing down New Mexico food costs.
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'This commission would study what types of strategies we might have to promote to buy local to support the growers in the state who produce so much,' said Representative Charlotte Little (D-Albuquerque).
If you've gone grocery shopping these days, you've probably noticed your dollars stretching less as food prices increase nationally. Now, New Mexico lawmakers say it's time to do something about it. Rep. Little is the lead sponsor of HB 17 which would create what would be New Mexico's first 'Commission on the Reduction of Grocery Costs.'
If approved, the nine-member council would review and develop policy ideas for reducing food costs, including recommending strategies to support local food businesses and evaluating laws around price gouging. 'A couple of days where we had updates on the prices of eggs and while it might seem comical, the reality is that they are about six dollars a dozen right now,' said Rep. Little.
The commission would ultimately report findings to the governor and lawmakers. Rep. Little said the commission's work is urgent. 'Around what's happening in Washington, the tariffs and everything else. We're worried about, so if we're already seeing these prices before, what are we going to see now?,' said Rep. Little.
The bill also has a proposed 'Emergency Clause,' so if it passes, the commission's work would start immediately and last for one year. Lawmakers have yet to debate the bill and the legislative session is now just a couple of days away from the 30-day halfway point.
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