ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico voters will decide this election whether to amend the state constitution to eliminate the governor’s ability to use a pocket veto, a process that allows legislation to die without a signature or formal veto.
Under current law, the governor has 20 days after the end of a legislative session to either sign a bill into law or veto it. If neither action is taken, the bill is effectively pocket vetoed and does not become law. Unlike a traditional veto, a pocket veto does not require the governor to provide an explanation.
Constitutional Amendment 1 would change that process. If approved by voters, any bill that reaches the governor’s desk would automatically become law if no action is taken before the deadline.
Supporters of the amendment say the change would increase transparency and accountability by ensuring lawmakers and the public know why legislation is being rejected. State Rep. Matthew McQueen, D-Santa Fe, who sponsored the measure, has argued that pocket vetoes can leave legislators and constituents without a clear understanding of why a bill failed.
The proposal has received bipartisan support. Supporters from both parties say lawmakers invest significant time and effort moving legislation through committee hearings, floor debates, and votes, and believe a formal veto process provides greater public transparency.
In a statement the office of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said the governor will defer to voters on the question and believes New Mexicans should decide the issue at the ballot box.
Constitutional Amendment 1 is one of four proposed amendments appearing on this year’s ballot.
