The early monsoon rains that helped firefighters turn the corner on the South Fork and Salt fires in southern New Mexico were part of a weather pattern across the state that will likely reduce wildfire risk well into August. After that, the risk will again elevate.
Over 100 million Americans are saddled with medical debt. The Patient Debt Relief Act introduced by Sierra County's Democratic congressman Gabe Vasquez could, if it becomes law, help to alleviate their struggles.
Where's Asha?
Studies suggest climate change is increasing the risk that severe rainfall comes in the wake of wildfires. The Washington Post examines whether Ruidoso, New Mexico's devastation by fire and flooding is a bellwether for the entire West. Plus: Sunday's *other* earthshaking news.
Nogal Canyon Bridge on I-25 linking Sierra County to Socorro County and beyond will be replaced after more than 50 years of use. Plus: Yesterday's special legislative session accomplished little and cost New Mexico taxpayers a lot.
FEMA agrees to deliver temporary housing for the Ruidosa area's burned out residents.
Las Cruces's Memorial Medical Center is under investigation for possible consumer protection violations.
Gabe Vasquez, who represents Sierra County in the U.S. House, joins a bipartisan effort to appropriate more resources for fentanyl intradiction at the border.
Republican congresspeople just passed a bill requiring proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. All three New Mexico representatives voted nay, with Sierra County's Democratic Congressman Gabe Vasquez calling the requirement "unnecessary and discriminatory." It is already illegal for non-citizens to vote in federal elections.
The Biden administration has proposed new workplace regulations to protect outdoor employees from heat exhaustion.
Early monsoon rains in New Mexico may have little positive effect on wildfire risk, which is predicted to be elevated again in late summer and early fall.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority, which began operations yesterday, is meant to streamline the state’s health care system, expanding access to more residents. Plus: other bills aimed at improving governmental programs that went into effect on July 1.