New Mexico's Budget Surplus: A Boon for State Workers?

Last week, public service workers, represented by CWA Local 7076, held a rally at the New Mexico state capitol calling on Governor Lujan Grisham’s bargaining team to stop stonewalling and address the issues most important to state workers. Governor Grisham has proposed language attacking fundamental worker rights like the right to blow the whistle on government fraud, abuse, and waste; denying union representation to protect employees from civil rights abuses under state and federal law; and attacking union representatives’ ability to investigate violations of worker rights.

CWA Local 7076 represents thousands of public service workers across thirteen state agencies. In addition to protecting workers’ rights, union members are also fighting for adequate compensation and benefits that match market standards. A 2023 study by the Legislative Finance Committee found that state workers in sciences, education, engineering, and healthcare earned 11% to 24% less than the market average. “The State must end the revolving door of its best workers leaving for better opportunities if it wants to address issues like education, child poverty, environmental protections, and health,” said CWA Local 7076 President Megan Green.

Over 100 people attended the rally, including members of CWA Local 7011 and other labor unions across the state. Members and leaders spoke about how the high vacancy rates in state employment are impacting workers’ ability to serve the citizens of New Mexico and how better working conditions like fair pay, better health insurance rates, remote work, and more paid leave will aid in worker retention.



The high vacancy rates in state employment have significant consequences on the quality of services provided to New Mexico citizens. According to a report by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7076, titled "Underpaid and Overworked: New Mexico State Workers On How the Staffing Crisis Costs Us All," these consequences include reduced quality of services, program cuts and service delays, revenue loss, unsafe conditions, health issues, children in unsafe conditions, and natural resources not being protected.

The findings of the 2023 study by the Legislative Finance Committee influence the negotiation strategies of CWA Local 7076 and the state government. By using this data, the union can make a strong case for fair compensation and benefits that match market standards. This will help them advocate for better working conditions, including guaranteed annual cost-of-living raises linked to inflation, remote work options, and fair pay linked to years of service. These improvements are essential to retain state workers and address issues like education, child poverty, environmental protections, and health.

In conclusion, the budget surplus in New Mexico presents an opportunity for the state government to address the concerns of public service workers and improve their working conditions. By doing so, the state can retain its best workers and better serve the citizens of New Mexico.