New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act

Key Points

• This bill requires federal agencies to work more closely with New Mexico's "land grant-mercedes," which are community lands originally granted by Spain or Mexico. It aims to protect the ability of these communities to use federal land for traditional activities they have practiced for generations.
• The policy covers a variety of activities for personal use, such as gathering small amounts of firewood, herbs, and plants. It also includes grazing livestock and hunting or fishing for food. Communities would also be allowed to maintain structures like fences, water tanks, and historical sites like cemeteries.
• Federal officials would be required to sign a formal agreement with the New Mexico Land Grant Council within two years. This agreement would outline how community members can get permits for these activities and how the government will notify them about land management decisions that might affect their traditions.
• To help lower-income communities, the bill allows the government to reduce or waive permit fees. When deciding on these costs, officials must look at the financial situation of the community members and the land grant's overall budget.
• The bill includes safeguards to ensure that these traditional uses do not interfere with the rights of Native American Tribes or existing state laws regarding water and wildlife management.

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