SANTA FE, N.M. — Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed 57 emergency executive orders directing $42.75 million in state funding toward flood response and recovery efforts in northern New Mexico, as state officials continue to wait for federal reimbursement approval.
The funding is intended to help communities impacted by flooding that began on Oct. 22, covering debris removal and repairs to roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.
Each executive order authorizes $750,000 for affected communities. State officials say the latest allocation, combined with previous emergency funding approved earlier this month, brings New Mexico’s total flood response commitment to nearly $55 million over the past month.
According to the governor’s office, President Donald Trump approved an Emergency Declaration for the flooding disaster last week, allowing New Mexico to seek assistance from federal agencies. However, the federal government has not yet approved the state’s request for reimbursement of emergency response costs.
As a result, state, county, and Tribal governments are currently covering the expenses associated with rescue operations, emergency protective measures, debris removal, and infrastructure repairs.
“The president has recognized what families in San Juan County already know: this is a disaster,” Lujan Grisham said in a statement. “What hasn’t come yet is the federal commitment to help pay for the response.”
State officials say damage from the flooding in San Juan County and neighboring communities could exceed $200 million. Thousands of homes sustained flood damage, and communities faced additional challenges including sewage spills, downed power lines, and gas leak risks.
The governor’s office said New Mexico is preparing a request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide additional federal recovery resources and potentially reimburse eligible response costs. Under current federal disaster programs, reimbursement typically covers up to 75% of eligible expenses, while state and local governments are responsible for the remaining share.
Meanwhile, emergency managers continue to assess damage across northern New Mexico, with additional counties potentially being added to future disaster assistance requests.
State officials say preparations are also underway for additional storms forecast to impact parts of New Mexico in the coming days.
