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 communities, which were established by Spain and Mexico centuries ago. It aims to improve coordination between the government and the families who have used these lands for generations to ensure their traditions are respected.
• The policy protects "traditional uses" of federal land, such as gathering firewood, picking herbs, grazing livestock, and maintaining community cemeteries. These activities must be for personal use, not for sale, allowing heirs of the original land grants to continue their cultural practices on public land.
• Within two years, federal officials and the New Mexico Land Grant Council must create a formal agreement to simplify the permit process. This includes looking for ways to lower or waive fees for community members who cannot afford them, ensuring that the cost of a permit does not block access to traditional resources.
• When the government creates new management plans for public forests or parks in New Mexico, they must now specifically consider how those plans affect these land grant communities. This gives local residents a stronger voice in how the land around them is managed and protected for the future.
• The bill ensures that these new rules do not interfere with the rights of Native American Tribes or existing state laws regarding water and wildlife. It focuses on creating a better partnership between the federal government and local communities while respecting all existing legal rights.

Impact Analysis

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