Finance

A proposed New Mexico tax bill that would exempt affordable housing developments from gross receipts taxes could unlock millions in savings for builders and expand the supply of lower-cost rentals in high-cost markets such as Santa Fe. The measure, introduced ahead of the 2026 legislative session, highlights how state tax policy can influence construction costs, housing supply, and monthly rent burdens for low- and moderate-income households.

Federal policy developments and looming legislative deadlines are creating fresh uncertainty for nonprofit organizations’ funding and operational planning. Recent actions by the White House and Congress could affect federal grants, contracts, tax treatment, and oversight, prompting sector leaders to track shifting policy risks closely.

The New Mexico Supreme Court has allowed Santa Fe’s 3 percent “mansion tax” on luxury home sales to remain in effect, upholding a lower court decision and clearing a major legal hurdle. The levy, approved by voters in 2023, aims to fund affordable housing, though critics worry it could affect high-end property transactions.

One year into President Donald Trump’s second term, U.S. colleges and universities are beginning to see the financial consequences of policy shifts that have altered funding, research priorities and institutional planning. Despite some proposed cuts being scaled back or blocked, uncertainty around federal support and regulatory changes is starting to affect campus budgets and strategic decisions.

State education officials are expanding outreach and support to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a key step in accessing federal and state financial aid for college. In Massachusetts, free assistance events, online resources, and alternative applications aim to increase aid uptake and support affordability.