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DOJ to Review New Mexico’s Sunshine Law — Why it Matters and What Happens Next

Juan Oliveros
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DOJ to Review New Mexico’s Sunshine Law — Why it Matters and What Happens Next

New Mexico’s Department of Justice will convene a task force to review the Sunshine Law in response to House Joint Memorial 2, passed by the state legislature in the final hours of its 30-day session last week.

HJM 2 directs the DOJ to convene a task force to determine the “workability and effectiveness” of the state’s public records law.

The move comes amid mounting complaints from records custodians in local and state agencies who are struggling to keep up with an increase in public records requests.

A response to growing pressure

The Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA), which guarantees public access to government documents, is the center of the review.

Custodians across the state have reported a sharp surge in requests. Some local governments described the workloads as having strained staff capacity and budgets. In Carlsbad, officials have noted a 200 percent spike in records requests in recent years, according to transparency advocates.

The task force will explore solutions to address the heavy workload without sacrificing public access — a balance that has been proven politically fraught in past sessions.

The initiative follows failed attempts of the legislature to overhaul IPRA. Critics, including the Foundation for Open Government, warned that those proposals could have significantly weakened transparency and accountability.

In a lawsuit filed last year, FOG called for “a remedy beyond fees, costs, and fines.”

Why review the law matters

The task force will include representatives from a broad range of public and private stakeholders, namely: DOJ, New Mexico Municipal League, New Mexico Counties, FOG, American Civil Liberties Union, and New Mexico Press Association.

The DOJ will convene the group, which is expected to submit recommendations to a legislative committee by October. Participation is key to the success of the initiative, according to media and transparency advocates.

“Any process like this must be grounded in IPRA’s core principle that public records belong to the public,” Press Association President Belinda Mills said in a statement. She stressed that journalists and transparency advocates must have a voice to ensure that the task force reinforces, rather than erodes, the law’s intent.

Mills said her organization supported the memorial to ensure representation in discussions across the state about the growing burden on records custodians.

A reset after failed reforms

FOG executive director Christine Barber described the task force as a chance to recalibrate the conversation.

“After last year, when we had three different bills that looked to kind of completely gut IPRA, we decided to look at the problem and say, ‘Why are they asking for these changes?’” Barber said. “They are asking for these changes because the records custodians have a huge workload.”

The FOG official wants an open dialogue to focus on practical fixes that do not weaken the law’s protections. Some of the ideas the task force could examine include increasing the number of records custodians, proactively posting more documents online to reduce individual requests, and investing in better records management software.

What happens next

The panel will evaluate how effectively IPRA functions and whether it remains feasible under the present conditions. Its recommendations could help shape future legislation in the next session.

Lawmakers considered the unanimous vote as a signal of bipartisan recognition that the issue requires careful study. The legislature did not approve two measures in last year’s regular legislative session aimed at addressing the issue.

One bill sought to revamp IPRA by creating new exemptions to the law. It also sought to grant broader authority to state and local governments to refuse public records requests.

Another measure also sought to impose fees on public records requests, extend the response time, and make it more difficult to obtain penalty fees for violations of the law.

DOJ spokesperson Chelsea Pitvorec did not respond to queries about when the department is going to convene the panel. She merely stated that the DOJ “stands willing to spearhead this initiative.”

Rio’s Story

Rio Brant
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Rio’s Story

Rio Brant was always a little different from the other geese.

He came from a family of Brant geese, who migrate across North America every fall to get to warmer climates for the winter weather. In 2025, Rio was grown-enough to join his family on long trip south.

During migration, Rio and his family landed in New Mexico, taking a break from the long flight. They stopped at the Rio Grande, and while the other geese were drinking water and making nests, he looked up to see a thousand colorful balloons, scattered across the sky.

Later in the day, the balloons had disappeared. Rio knew he had to see them again and find out where they came from.

Flying in the direction the balloons had been, he saw people, buildings, and smelled food. It seemed as though the city he was flying over was just emitting a warmth and a sense of hospitality he had never seen before. He flew and flew until it was dark, and he could not find the colorful globes that he had been chasing and decided to go back to his family.

The Land of Enchantment

When it was time to move on, Rio felt a pull to stay. There was something about the place, its people, its conversations, its untold stories that kept calling him back.
Rio wasn’t there to tell those stories himself. He just knew they mattered.

That’s when he crossed paths with journalists who shared that same pull; people driven by curiosity, integrity, and a commitment to uncovering stories that often go unnoticed. Together, they realized they had something in common: a belief that stories can create understanding and strengthen community.

So, Rio stayed.
Now, he works alongside the newsroom not as a reporter, but as a guide helping connect people to the journalists and stories shaping New Mexico.

Rio and the newsroom are hoping you stay too and check out the stories that he wanted to make sure got told!

From WNMU to the Super Bowl Stage: Leah Lopez Shines with Bad Bunny

Grace Tackman
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From WNMU to the Super Bowl Stage: Leah Lopez Shines with Bad Bunny

“Say yes to every opportunity you can!” That’s the advice former Western New Mexico University (WNMU) student Leah Lopez gives to the dreamers out there. 

Earlier this month, Lopez performed as a featured violinist in Bad Bunny’s record-breaking halftime show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. WNMU joined audiences worldwide in cheering its former mariachi program member as she took the global stage.

On February 8, Bad Bunny performed the Super Bowl halftime show almost entirely in Spanish. It marked a landmark cultural tribute to Latino heritage. The production featured a violin orchestra, adding classical depth to the modern genre.

Lopez joined a select group of elite musicians chosen to share the spotlight with the global Latin icon. She wore a signature brown suit and bowtie, a nod to the working-class roots and traditional aesthetics. 

Lopez showcased her violin skills to an estimated 125 million viewers worldwide. Her soaring musical accompaniment provided the melodic backbone for Bad Bunny’s hit song “Monaco.” The track masterfully blended high-energy trap with classical orchestral elements.

Lopez’s Journey as a Musician 

Lopez’s musical journey began years ago in her hometown, Tucson, Arizona, where she performed with mariachi bands. After enrolling at WNMU, she became a dedicated and foundational member of the university’s mariachi ensembles. 

At WNMU, she honed the technical precision, rigorous discipline, and vibrant stage presence needed for professional success. These skills eventually propelled her into the competitive Los Angeles music scene.

The musician’s path took her from the quiet landscapes of Silver City to performing alongside a global icon. Along the way, she lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, and she played with a well-known Mexican mariachi band. She relocated to Los Angeles and, with other top-tier musicians, was independently contracted to perform in the Super Bowl halftime show.

Through her performance, Lopez highlights the connection between traditional musical education and modern entertainment. Her Southwest roots and deep training in mariachi music provided the perfect stylistic versatility required for Bad Bunny’s genre-bending sound. This performance showcased her individual virtuosity. It also emphasized the enduring relevance of traditional music programs in preparing students for a diverse range of careers.

Lopez’s Performance: A Proud Moment for the WNMU Community

“Seeing one of our students represent the culture and the high caliber of talent we cultivate here at WNMU is an incredibly proud moment for the entire university,” said ASWNMU President Carlos Carranza. “Leah’s performance on the world’s biggest stage is a testament to her relentless hard work and the artistic foundation she built while participating in our mariachi program. She embodies the spirit of a Mustang—resilient, talented, and ready to lead.”

“Leah’s ability to translate the emotion and technique of mariachi into a global pop context is exactly what we hope for our students and alumni. She has shown our current students that there truly are no limits to where their education can take them,” Carranza further added.

Police: Two Suspects Accused of Shooting an Officer Arrested After a Multi-day Hunt

Juan Oliveros
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Police: Two Suspects Accused of Shooting an Officer Arrested After a Multi-day Hunt

Police have arrested the two suspects accused of shooting at an officer during a traffic stop along U.S. Highway 285 near Fort Sumner. The arrest came several days after the suspects had been on the run.

Authorities identified the suspects as Jovan Martinez and Makaela Johnson. The police placed the two into custody in the Fort Sumner area with the help of NMSP Tactical Teams and local law enforcement agencies.

Martinez and Johnson were accused of shooting at an NMSP sergeant during a traffic stop on Monday, February 23. The officer was unharmed. After the incident, the pair had been on the run for several days. Their cellphone data, however, led the police to their location.

New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler said the routine traffic stop has “quickly escalated into a violent encounter.” The armed male passenger exited the vehicle during the stop and fired at one of the officers. After the incident, the pair fled by carjacking a couple at gunpoint.

Weisler thanked “all law enforcement partners who assisted in bringing this dangerous situation to a safe resolution.” He also cited “the community for their support, cooperation, and patience over the past several days.”

Before their arrest, police had launched a manhunt for the pair. The initial investigation identified the woman as Makaela Johnson. But the man, Johnson’s companion, was identified only a day after the incident. He was identified based on photos from the encounter.

New Mexico Logs First Measles Case of 2026 as Inmate Tests Positive: What to Watch and More

Juan Oliveros
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New Mexico Logs First Measles Case of 2026 as Inmate Tests Positive: What to Watch and More

Health officials have confirmed the state’s first case of measles in 2026 after a federal inmate detained at a facility in southern New Mexico has tested positive. The case comes months after an outbreak across the state last year that infected 100 people.

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) stated that it has yet to identify any public exposure sites associated with the patient. NMDOH is working with Hidalgo County officials to enforce quarantine, isolation, testing, and vaccination protocols to prevent further spread.

“This new case reminds us that the risk for measles did not end following the 2025 statewide outbreak,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH chief medical officer. “We continue to encourage everyone in New Mexico to be fully vaccinated against measles,” she added.

The inmate’s vaccination status has remained unknown. NMDOH Scientific Laboratory confirmed the case.

What to watch

Measles symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days after exposure. Early signs of infection include fever, runny nose, cough, and red eyes. These are followed by a red, spotted rash that usually starts on the face or head before spreading downward.

Health officials said an infected person can spread the virus from either four days before or four days after the rash appears.

New Mexico’s measles 2025 outbreak was the first since 1996. The outbreak was declared over after health officials had recorded 100 confirmed cases between February and September 2025 in nine counties. Of the total cases, one death was recorded.

What to do

Health officials urged the public who develop symptoms and believe they may have been exposed to call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). Residents may also text 66364 (NMDOH) or use the chat feature on the agency’s website.

Patients who plan to visit a clinic or emergency department should call ahead so healthcare workers can take proper precautions. Health officials reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.

Four Finalists Continue WNMU Presidential Search After One Withdraws

Grace Tackman
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Four Finalists Continue WNMU Presidential Search After One Withdraws

The list drops from five to four university presidential candidates. Western New Mexico University (WNMU) announced today that Cameron Braxton Wesson, Ph.D., withdrew from consideration for the 16th president position. 

WNMU, however, did not disclose Wesson’s reason for withdrawal. The university assured this development will not disrupt the scheduled plans in line with its search for the next president.

WNMU will proceed with the presidential search process with the remaining four distinguished finalists. Campus visits and community engagement sessions will continue as scheduled for the other candidates. 

Upcoming Events for WNMU Presidential Candidates

The four finalists and their public meet-and-greets, according to WNMU:

  • Jose E. Coll, Ph.D. (Western Oregon University): Dr. Coll currently serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Western Oregon University. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he has focused his career on student success and veteran transition. He previously held leadership roles at Portland State University and the University of Southern California.
  • Carlos Rey Romero, Ph.D. (New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology): Dr. Romero is an Associate Vice President at New Mexico Tech. He has extensive experience within the New Mexico higher education and governmental landscape. His background includes leadership in economic development and research at the Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center (EMRTC).
  • Sharon A. Jones, Ph.D. (University of Washington Bothell): Dr. Jones is the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and a Professor of Engineering at UW Bothell. A first-generation college student and a licensed Professional Engineer, she has a background in bridging STEM with the liberal arts. Jones also served as a dean at the University of Portland.
  • Mario Martinez, Ph.D. (Fort Lewis College): Dr. Martinez serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Fort Lewis College. His work emphasizes institutional innovation, particularly in integrating artificial intelligence with inclusive learning and addressing equity gaps in rural education.

Next WNMU President Still To Be Announced on March 17

“WNMU and the Regents remain fully confident in the strength and diversity of our finalist pool,” said Board of Regents Treasurer and co-chair of the Presidential Hiring committee, Dean Reed, Board of Regents’ Treasurer and co-chair of the presidential hiring committee. “Our priority is to ensure a transparent and thorough selection process that identifies a leader dedicated to the unique mission of WNMU and the success of our students. We look forward to the upcoming campus visits and highly value the input we will receive from our community members during this final stage.”

The WNMU Board of Regents is still set to convene on March 17, 2026, to announce the university’s next leader. This is in accordance with the New Mexico Open Meetings Act.

WNMU encourages all stakeholders to attend these public sessions, either in person or via livestream. Participants can help shape the university’s future by providing feedback on the final candidates.

In September 2025, WNMU launched a comprehensive nationwide search for its next president. 

The president serves as the university’s chief executive officer and reports directly to the WNMU Board of Regents. The new president will lead the university through a pivotal period of renewal and growth, ensuring its sustainability and mission in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

Bernalillo County Shifts to New IPRA Portal, Sets Feb 27 Shutdown of Old System

Juan Oliveros
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Bernalillo County Shifts to New IPRA Portal, Sets Feb 27 Shutdown of Old System

Bernalillo County residents will soon have a new online platform for filing public records requests. County officials will phase out the current system to boost transparency and response times.

The public can submit and monitor Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) requests through the JustFOIA portal starting March 2. Officials say the new system aims to streamline submissions, shorten response times, improve tracking, and increase visibility in handling public records requests.

The county’s existing IPRA request portal, NextRequest, will permanently close at noon on February 27, 2026. A replacement system, JustFOIA, will officially launch on March 2, 2026.

The county will continue to process all IPRA requests filed through NextRequest until they are completed before the February 27 shutdown.

Once the new system goes live, additional details and a link to the JustFOIA portal will be made available on the Bernalillo County website.

School to Host Stephen Vladeck for Dennis Chavez Lecture on Saving the Supreme Court

Juan Oliveros
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School to Host Stephen Vladeck for Dennis Chavez Lecture on Saving the Supreme Court

The University of New Mexico School of Law will bring a leading constitutional law scholar to campus to talk on the future of the US Supreme Court.

The school will host the U.S. Senator Dennis Chavez Endowed Lectureship on Law and Civil Rights. It features Stephen I. Vladeck, the nation’s recognized scholar on federal courts, constitutional law, and national security.

Vladeck is Agnes Williams Sesquicentennial Professor of Federal Courts at Georgetown University Law Center. He is the author of The Shadow Docket, which offers a closer look at the US Supreme Court’s emergency decision-making process.

Vladeck has argued cases before the Supreme Court of the United States and federal appellate courts. He is a legal analyst in national media. His lecture, titled “The Court We Need: Why the Supreme Court is Worth Saving, Especially from Itself,” will discuss relevant questions such as judicial power, institutional legitimacy, and constitutional governance.

The event begins at 5 pm, followed by the lecture at 5:30 pm at the UNM School of Law Forum. It is open to the public and offers 1.5 general continuing legal education credits.

The annual lectureship is in honor of Dennis Chavez, a native of New Mexico. From humble beginnings in Albuquerque’s Barelas neighborhood, he rose to become the only Hispanic US senator when he began public service in 1935. Chavez was a champion of civil and human rights, conservation efforts, rural electrification, and protections for Indigenous communities in the Senate for nearly 30 years.

The lectureship, established in his name, brings prominent voices in law and public service to UNM every year. It has become an avenue for public dialogue on civil rights, democracy, and the role of the courts.

Weak in Math? Newly Passed Senate Bill 29 Seeks to Help

Grace Tackman
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Weak in Math? Newly Passed Senate Bill 29 Seeks to Help

Math giving you a hard time? A newly passed bill aims to help struggling students.

The New Mexico Legislature passed Senate Bill 29 (SB 29), bipartisan legislation designed to strengthen math instruction. It seeks to improve student outcomes in public schools across the state. 

SB 29 creates a comprehensive framework to improve math teaching and learning, including:

  • stronger preparation requirements for educators, 
  • expanded professional development, and
  • early identification of students who may need additional support in mathematics. 

Starting in the 2027–2028 school year, schools must administer a statewide math screening for all kindergarten through third-grade students. This screening will help identify learning challenges early and ensure timely, targeted intervention. 

In line with this initiative, families will receive regular updates about their child’s progress and available support.   

SB 29 Aims to Support Math Teachers, Too

SB 29 mandates the New Mexico Public Education Department to develop a statewide Mathematics Instructional Leadership Framework. It will guide high-quality instruction and offer structured support for teachers and school leaders. 

“Strong math skills open doors for students, from college readiness to career opportunities in high-demand fields,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla. She said the bill ensures New Mexico students receive the high-quality teaching and early support they need to succeed.

This legislation demonstrates a collaborative effort among lawmakers, educators, and stakeholders. It aims to address persistent achievement gaps and build a stronger academic foundation for all students.

How are New Mexico Students Are Performing in Math?

Source NM reported in July 2025 that only about one in four New Mexico students is proficient in math, according to a brief from the Legislative Education Study Committee. 

LESC Deputy Director Jessica Hathaway said low math proficiency in New Mexico is evident nationwide. She discussed the matter during a meeting with the committee at New Mexico Highlands University. 

Hathaway said math proficiency peaks in fifth grade in New Mexico, with 32% proficiency rate. However, the line drops right after that point. “By the end of middle school, in eighth grade, we see a 19% proficiency rate across all student groups. And by 11th grade, we see a 12% proficiency rate across all student groups.”

The brief provided recommendations for the state Legislature, the New Mexico Public Education Department, teacher preparation programs, and school districts. These include:

  • the state codifying expectations for math instruction, screening, and intervention; 
  • PED revising teacher licensure requirements; 
  • preparation programs requiring math methods coursework for all licensure pathways; 
  • and districts investing in math coaches or interventionists and engaging parents as partners in students’ learning.

DPS Secretary Mourns Death of Deputy After Tractor-Trailer Pins Him Under Cruiser During a Traffic Stop

Juan Oliveros
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DPS Secretary Mourns Death of Deputy After Tractor-Trailer Pins Him Under Cruiser During a Traffic Stop

Cabinet Secretary Jason R.Bowie of the New Mexico Department of Public Safety mourned the death of a sergeant from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, the statement issued on Tuesday, February 24, said.

Bowie said he was heartbroken by the death of Sgt. Michael Schlattman. He described the fallen officer as courageous and deeply committed to serving his community.

Schlattman died Monday after a tractor-trailer rear-ended his patrol unit, pinning him beneath it during a traffic stop. The fallen officer was conducting a stop shortly before 5 pm on Interstate 40 eastbound near the 170, according to a sheriff’s office statement posted on social media.

Officials said a tractor-trailer slammed into the rear of the vehicle as he stepped outside his cruiser. Schlattman was trapped underneath the vehicle when the impact pushed the cruiser forward. Responders pronounced him dead at the scene.

Bowie extended his condolences to the officer’s family, friends, and fellow officers. The department stands in solidarity with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. He called Schlattman’s death an incredibly difficult time.

“Sergeant Schlattman served with professionalism and dedication,” Bowie said. He urged the public to keep the officer’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers.

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