New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Requires federal agencies to sign agreements with New Mexico land grant-merced communities so heirs can continue traditional uses like grazing and wood gathering on federal land.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: heirs of Spanish and Mexican land grants in New Mexico, rural Hispanic communities relying on federal land.
- Loses: no one materially; Tribal rights, state water and wildlife authority, and existing permit holders are explicitly protected.
What it does
- Orders Agriculture and Interior Secretaries to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the New Mexico Land Grant Council within 2 years.
- Defines protected traditional uses: water use, gathering herbs/wood, grazing, subsistence hunting, cemetery and shrine upkeep.
- Requires the MOU to spell out permits, fees, vehicle access, and Tribal consultation processes.
- Directs Secretaries to consider community fiscal capacity when reducing or waiving land use fees.
Why should I care?
Supporters say these communities have used the land for centuries and deserve clearer, cheaper access instead of tangled federal permits. Critics worry expanded access could strain public land, complicate Tribal consultations, or set precedents for other historical claims. The bill passed the Senate unanimously, suggesting broad agreement. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.