New Mexico Senate Bill SM43

New Mexico 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/23

Caption

Pollinator Protection Plan

Impact

The bill acknowledges the critical threats that pollinators face, including habitat loss, pesticide exposure, diseases, and climate challenges. It also highlights the particular vulnerability of pollinator populations in New Mexico, where climatic conditions can exacerbate these threats. By instituting a structured approach to pollinator protection, SM43 seeks to ensure the sustainability of pollinating species which are essential not only for agricultural productivity but also for ecological balance.

Summary

Senate Memorial 43 (SM43) aims to address the urgent need for a Pollinator Protection Plan in New Mexico. The bill emphasizes the importance of pollinators to the state's agricultural economy and proposes the establishment of a working group composed of representatives from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, the New Mexico Food and Agriculture Policy Council, and the New Mexico Beekeepers Association. This collaboration aims to develop strategies for protecting pollinators through community education, outreach, and data collection efforts, recognizing that managed bees play a vital role in the success of urban gardening and agriculture.

Contention

Discussion around SM43 indicates significant support from agricultural stakeholders who recognize the need to mitigate the decline of pollinator species. However, there may be opposing viewpoints from certain sectors concerned about agricultural restrictions that might arise from regulation. Questions have been raised regarding the effectiveness of proposed educational strategies and whether they could sufficiently address the complexities of pollinator health management in the state.