Luján Secures Over $6.9 Million in Federal Investments for New Mexico Communities in Committee-Passed Appropriations Bill

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, announced the Appropriations Committee’s bipartisan passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill. Senator Luján secured over $6.9 million in Congressionally Directed Spending for key local projects that will strengthen fire and emergency response capabilities, renovate community infrastructure, and expand early childhood education services in rural New Mexico.

“These investments reflect what I hear from New Mexicans every day: the need for stronger infrastructure, safer communities, and more opportunities for the next generation,” said Senator Luján. “From strengthening public safety in Rio Arriba County to expanding early childhood classrooms in Luna County, I fought for this funding because it will improve people’s lives. It means quicker response times during emergencies, better education for our kids, and more spaces where communities can come together.”

“Every community in New Mexico matters, and that’s why I’ve worked to deliver investments to all 33 counties during my time in the Senate. I’ll keep fighting to bring home the federal dollars and resources our families and communities deserve,” continued Senator Luján.

The Committee process is the first step, and the appropriations bills will next be considered by the full U.S. Senate.

Senator Luján Secured Over $6.9 Million for the Following Local Projects:

Fire and Emergency Response in Northern New Mexico:

• $1,100,000 for Rio Arriba County to modernize and upgrade firefighting communications equipment, including radios and repeater towers, to ensure timely emergency responses. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.

• $750,000 for the Truchas Volunteer Fire Department to enhance the department’s ability to respond to emergencies. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.

• $1,000,000 for San Juan County to purchase a new fire ladder truck. Secured by Senator Luján, Senator Heinrich, and Representative Leger Fernández in the House-companion bill.

Community Infrastructure in Central and Southern New Mexico:

• $1,513,000 for the Town of Estancia to renovate their town hall and community center. Secured by Senator Luján.

• $1,000,000 for the Town of Mesilla to renovate its town hall complex. Secured by Senator Luján, Senator Heinrich, and Representative Vasquez in the House-companion bill.

Early Childhood Education in Southwestern New Mexico:

• $1,575,000 for HELP New Mexico, Inc. to expand their early childhood education campus in Luna County. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.

###