Economy

$4 Billion Windfall From Oil and Gas Lease Sale — But They’re Refusing to Spend It. Here’s Why That’s Actually Smart.

New Mexico is choosing to stash its portion of a landmark $4 billion oil lease windfall in dedicated trust funds instead of spending it immediately — a prudent move that could help stabilize the state’s finances for the long term. The decision represents a departure from the state's volatile energy past.

Albuquerque is Raising the Minimum Wage to $15 by 2030 — Here’s How it Could Reshape Paychecks, Families, and Local Businesses

The Albuquerque City Council has approved a gradual increase in the city’s minimum wage, raising it to $15 an hour by 2030. Supporters say the measure will help working families cope with rising living costs, while businesses argue the phased approach gives employers time to adjust. The decision highlights the ongoing debate over wages, affordability and economic growth in New Mexico’s largest city.

Gas Prices Remain High Despite Summer Season Fast Approaching

Gas prices will remain high despite the approaching summer season.

Trump’s $4B Permian Oil Bonanza—Energy Triumph or Public Lands Risk?

In one of the largest single-day oil and gas lease sales in recent history, the Trump administration generated over $4 billion from federal lands in the Permian Basin, highlighting strong industry demand and the impact of lowered royalty rates.

Regulators Signal Green Light for $1.25 Billion Private Equity Takeover of New Mexico’s Largest Natural Gas Utility

Hearing officers have recommended the approval of a $1.25 billion buyout of New Mexico's largest natural gas provider by a Louisiana-based private equity firm, clearing a critical legal hurdle for a deal that could reshape the state's energy infrastructure.

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Wildlife Officials Urge Drivers to Watch Out for Bears After Four Black Bears Were Killed on I‑25 in Just Two Weeks as Starving...

Four black bears have been killed by vehicles on Interstate 25 near Bernalillo in just two weeks as hungry animals roam farther in search of food and water amid drought and extreme heat.

Five Times Normal Radiation Spikes and Ozone Pollution Detected Near Loving, New Mexico Surrounded by Oil Wells

Scientists monitoring the air near Loving, New Mexico, recorded intermittent airborne radiation spikes up to five times typical background levels and elevated ozone concentrations, with two new studies pointing to intensive Permian Basin oil and gas activity as a likely contributor.

Los Lunas Man Arrested After Allegedly Admitting He Fell Asleep While Driving in Fatal Arizona Crash

A man allegedly fell asleep while driving a pickup truck, which reportedly caused a collision with a sedan carrying a family of four, who all died in the accident on Arizona State Route 260.

Police Launch Investigation to Determine What Led to Infant’s Death in Mysterious ‘Quiet’ Incident

A spokesperson for Albuquerque Police says the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death remain unknown.

Nearly 2 Million Gallons of Oil and Gas Waste Spilled Across New Mexico This Year, Watchdog Says

More than 1.9 million gallons of oil and gas waste have been reported spilled across New Mexico in 2026, with over half occurring on public and Tribal lands.