ENDING HUNGER IN NEW MEXICO 2026 Legislative Priorities The Food Depot, Northern New Mexico’s Food Bank These priorities reflect the mission of The Food Depot, Northern New Mexico’s food bank, for the 2026 Legislative Session. The Food Depot may choose to defend or oppose legislation throughout the session that is not specifically listed in this document when such actions support our mission to create a food-secure future for all New Mexicans.
CONTINUE INVESTING IN THE NEW MEXICO FOOD-SECURITY NETWORK
Engage with food bank and food pantry leaders across all 33 counties Visit your regional food bank Champion food access priorities in committees Connect food banks with state agencies and local governments
PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN FOOD ACCESS THROUGH SNAP
Maintain access to SNAP for eligible New Mexicans when federal support fluctuates Fund the staffing and technology needs of NM Health Care Authority to reduce error rates and state cost share Cover the reduced federal administrative cost share Fully staff the Income Support Division (ISD) so people can access SNAP without delays
SNAP: SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
EXPAND LOCAL FOOD PURCHASING STATEWIDE
Include $2 Million in General Appropriations for the NM Regional Farm to Food Bank Program to invest in small and mid-scale agriculture across the state (HB 101 / SB 108) Continue to support the NM Grown Approved Supplier Program
CONTINUE UNIVERSAL SCHOOL MEALS FOR NEW MEXICO’S SCHOOLCHILDREN
Continue PED (Public Education Department) funding levels that provide both breakfast and lunch at no cost to all students in New Mexico participating public schools.