Let's Talk New Mexico

On this episode we talk about the promises and threats from private equity ownership in health care. New Mexico has the highest proportion of private equity- owned hospitals in the country and we've been named most at risk of further private equity takeovers. That's why lawmakers recently passed an oversight bill on hospital acquisitions and mergers.

On this episode we talk about the promises and threats from private equity ownership in health care. New Mexico has the highest proportion of private equity- owned hospitals in the country and we've been named most at risk of further private equity takeovers. That's why lawmakers recently passed an oversight bill on hospital acquisitions and mergers.

Nationwide schools are facing chronic absenteeism, and it's even worse in New Mexico which saw the largest increase - of 119% from 2019 to 2023.

In 2018 a New Mexico judge ruled the state was failing to provide a constitutionally sufficient and equitable education to at-risk students. Years laters, the state is still out of compliance with that ruling and the plaintiffs have taken the case back to court.

In previous weeks we've explored the effects on our state of federal workforce reductions and likely federal funding cuts to Medicaid. Now prominent organizations like the New Mexico Humanities Council are reeling from cancelled federal grants. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, how will our non-profits endure big losses of federal funding promised by congress?

About a third of New Mexicans depend on medicaid to pay for health care. While our state legislature has signalled support by passing a bill to create a new medicaid trust fund, the United States congress is debating deep cuts to spending, including on medicaid. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, how would federal cuts affect health care in our state?

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss the power of oil and gas in our statehouse and why legislators may not be willing to change rules for the industry that brings about a third of the state's total revenue while being the top emitter of greenhouse gases.

We'll reflect on the end of the 2025 legislative session by talking with journalists who followed all 60 days at the Roundhouse.

New Mexico's Children, Youth, and Families Department has suffered decades of instability and the agency struggling to protect vulnerable youths. The governor and lawmakers are stressing urgency to address long standing issues, but the legislature has shown a break in trust by significantly cutting the agency's requested budget. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss legislative efforts for child welfare reform.

Psychedelics are gaining momentum as medicines to treat a variety of conditions such as addiction and PTSD, and New Mexico might become the third state to legalize medical psilocybin — the main ingredient in magic mushrooms.

About 22,000 New Mexicans worked for the federal government last year. Many people are nervous about the ongoing reduction in the federal workforce, but how severely could our state be impacted?

James Beard Foundation recognizes top achievements in the culinary world. This year five New Mexico chefs are semifinalists in the “Best of the Southwest” category and another three local establishments are semifinalists in national categories like “outstanding bakery,” “outstanding professional cocktail service” and “outstanding wine and other beverages program.”

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has called for easing medical malpractice insurance expenses by having the state step in to help cover gaps. Meanwhile a new Senate bill introduced by the only doctor in the legislature takes a different approach to lowering costs. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss how problems with malpractice insurance affect providers in the state and their patients, along with possible policy solutions.

By law, New Mexico utilities must transition to renewable power with benchmarks starting this year. However, with two large solar projects seeking permits, neighboring communities have voiced concerns over safety. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss proposed solar farms near Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Are you concerned about battery storage for solar energy or their proximity to communities?

Our state legislature is meeting in Santa Fe again - this time through mid-March - to consider the budget, but also lawmakers' and the governor's priorities on things like public safety, health care, and the environment. Which issues do you think should be priorities?

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll explore a controversial proposed power line project through the Caja del Rio that sparked a large push to protect the area and talk to the people who recreate and use the landscape on a daily basis.

KUNM News brought you about 40 episodes of Let's Talk New Mexico this year on topics ranging from the scarcity of doctors and pharmacies, to wildlife management and the arts economy – and many more that deserve another listen. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll revisit some of the standout discussions of 2024.

More than 12,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in New Mexico last year and shelter resources are strained as fewer people are adopting and more people are surrendering their furry friends. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss animal shelters and rescues, how to support them, and how to better manage our pet population.

New Mexico has an aging population and is now home to more people over the age of 65 than the national average. So, what are seniors doing to stay fulfilled and engaged here, and what services and opportunities exist? On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss what it's like for seniors living out life's “third act.”

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss if work-life balance is possible in health care and how the well-being of physicians impacts patient care.

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll explore climate issues as New Mexicans head to the polls in a year full of drought, wildfire, and sweltering heat. How is climate change affecting your vote?

Election day is behind us and there were some surprises. New Mexico's election results were mostly in line with expectations with a major exception – voters in most counties voted more red than they had in the past, even if not enough to significantly alter the outcomes. Are you hopeful or concerned about the implications of local or national results on life in New Mexico?

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll explore climate issues as New Mexicans head to the polls in a year full of drought, wildfire, and sweltering heat. How is climate change affecting your vote?

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll explore climate issues as New Mexicans head to the polls in a year full of drought, wildfire, and sweltering heat. How is climate change affecting your vote?

There seems to be never-ending road construction around our state. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss road construction, from funding to planning, and how we can best deal with the associated traffic.

The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 should have given Native Americans the right to vote, but in New Mexico and other states it took decades more to materialize, and some of the same challenges to Natives voting are still present today. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss barriers to Natives voting and the political power their votes represent.

Statistics show domestic violence is the leading cause of non-fatal injury to women while New Mexico ranks slightly higher than the national average when it comes to intimate partner violence. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month by discussing efforts to make survivors safer and where help is still needed.

8 million Generation Z folks will be turning 18 in time for this year's election. Data shows they are more involved in government and politics than baby boomers were in the 1960's. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll talk with young voters about what is important to them.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is holding a series of town halls on crime around the state after lawmakers rebuffed her call to stiffen some gun penalties and expand who can be involuntarily committed, saying her agenda could do more harm than good. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss ideas on public safety reform.

This week on Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss what's driving pharmacy deserts across the country, and the particular issues we face closer to home.

New Mexico has made strides when it comes to protecting patients from surprise medical bills and aggressive debt collectors. But hospitals may still overcharge uninsured patients and those with insurance are still hit with massive bills. On this week's Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss whether the new protections are working as intended and what steps could further reform medical billing.

New Mexico has a busy performing arts scene, including a renowned opera, a plethora of smaller theater companies, and a performance hall that attracts large touring companies with international hits. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss the state of theater after the pandemic. Have you gone back to the theater to perform or be entertained? What's the best way to support the performing arts?

Waiting months for health care appointments is a common experience for New Mexicans, in part because of a lacking health care workforce. On this week's Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss plans to recruit and retain workers to boost access to quality healthcare.

Last month, New Mexico experienced the hottest June it has ever had with more records expected to be broken going forward. On this episode we'll discuss some of the extreme consequences heat has on public health in the Southwest.

What is the future of WIPP, which was supposed to be a pilot project, especially with more plutonium pit production planned at Los Alamos National Laboratory? How long will WIPP remain open and will it be expanded? Those are some of the questions advocates have for a town hall that will take place on July 22nd with top officials from the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration and its Office of Environmental Management.

What is the future of WIPP, which was supposed to be a pilot project, especially with more plutonium pit production planned at Los Alamos National Laboratory? How long will WIPP remain open and will it be expanded? Those are some of the questions advocates have for a town hall that will take place on July 22nd with top officials from the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration and its Office of Environmental Management.

It's high season for the arts in New Mexico with the Folk Art, Spanish and Indian Markets coming to Santa Fe soon, and more statewide – like the Albuquerque area art festivals this fall. But on the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss how the creative industries are vibrant and an economic boon here year round. Are you an artist, performer or supporter of the creative industries?

Statistics show New Mexico is getting safer when it comes to road rage confrontations, however it might not feel like that to drivers. Forbes last year found the state was the third most dangerous for fatal crashes. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss dangerous and distracted driving. Have you seen more reckless or aggressive drivers lately? Has your phone taken your attention from the road? What measures could curb dangers and distractions?

Thursday morning on Let's Talk New Mexico, we get the latest on the South Fork and Salt fires forcing evacuations around Ruidoso in southeast New Mexico. Reports Wednesday show the fire growing to 21,000 acres with 1,400 structures burned. Are you trying to connect with friends and family there? Are you looking for ways to help?

Juneteenth, the holiday recognizing the release of the last enslaved people more than a year after the end of the Civil War, is coming up soon. Our communities commemorate the day with parades, conferences, and even yoga in the park. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss those celebrations and whether the holiday goes far enough to help heal the wounds of slavery. What will you do to recognize Juneteenth?

Juneteenth, the holiday recognizing the release of the last enslaved people more than a year after the end of the Civil War, is coming up soon. Our communities commemorate the day with parades, conferences, and even yoga in the park. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico we'll discuss those celebrations and whether the holiday goes far enough to help heal the wounds of slavery. What will you do to recognize Juneteenth?

New Mexico is among the most dangerous states for bicycling. Albuquerque, in particular, accounts for about half of those killed while biking in the state– and has ranked among the most dangerous cities in the US to ride a bicycle. Do you bike to work or peddle for miles on the weekends?

The 2024 primary elections are underway with early and absentee voting, but primary election day is Tuesday, June 4 and we'd like to hear from you. Why is voting in primary elections important to you? Do you sit out until general elections or only vote in presidential elections? What kinds of issues or candidates would get you more engaged?

On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we will talk about a unique, one-of-a-kind system meant to offset damage caused by elk and incentivize private land conservation and attempts to reform and properly fund state agencies. We'll also dive head-first into how the state manages our game and fish.

The state Public Education Department recently mandated public schools to operate for 180 days – that's a 5 day school week. Districts across the state are pushing back with a lawsuit citing lacking funding and transportation, especially in rural areas. Is the mandate overreaching, or, does it fulfill the state's obligation to students?

This week on Let's Talk New Mexico, have you had trouble finding medical care for your pet lately? You're not alone. There's a nationwide shortage of veterinarians, especially in rural areas. Meanwhile two-thirds of families now own pets. How do you see the need for more vets playing out in your community? Do you work in a veterinary practice?

Last summer, the U.S. Supreme Court slashed protections of many waterways and wetlands. Their decision left water advocates and experts alarmed over the potential impact on New Mexico's streams and rivers. On the next Let's Talk New Mexico, we'll discuss a new report labeling the state's rivers as particularly vulnerable.

New Mexico has a diverse population with almost 46,000 students participating in Bilingual programs. The goal is to ensure all students learn English as well as their native language and meet academic standards. However, a legislative report says schools may not be hitting those marks.

James Beard Foundation recognizes greatness in the culinary world. This year six New Mexico chefs are semifinalists in the “Best of the Southwest” category and another four local establishments are semifinalists in national categories like “best new restaurant,” “outstanding bakery,” and “outstanding bar.” The winners will be announced April 3rd.

March marks the annual celebration of Women's History Month. This year it's centered on women who advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion. Many New Mexican women paved the way for women today to make their voices heard and make their own history.

Most Americans have little to no savings so even a small emergency can have catastrophic results. Pilot programs in Santa Fe, Albuquerque and Las Cruces are among those nationwide seeking to help some low income families by providing a modest monthly stipend. It's called a Guaranteed Basic Income. What do you think about giving people money directly?