New Mexico Gov. calls for special session regarding SNAP benefits on Nov. 10

SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) — New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced on Thursday afternoon that she is calling a special legislative session to extend state-funded food benefits back to New Mexicans. This session on Monday, Nov. 10 at the State Capitol in Santa Fe is expected to last one day.

The session is happening 10 days after the governor released $30 million in emergency state funding to New Mexico residents using SNAP. This funding will run out on Monday, according to the governor’s office.

House Republican Leader Gail Armstrong issued this statement in response to the special session:

“We are being called into another special session because Senators Luján and Heinrich are refusing to fund SNAP benefits for the neediest New Mexicans. I would much prefer the Governor use her authority and influence to urge our Senate delegation to end this crisis by voting to reopen the federal government. Instead, they are holding vulnerable New Mexicans hostage for political leverage. The people of this state deserve more than the costly and dangerous political games Senators Luján and Heinrich continue to play.”

Lt. Gov. Howie Morales is expected to serve as acting governor during the special session, while Gov. Grisham attends the U.N. Climate Change Conference.