New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act

This bill helps New Mexico communities with Spanish or Mexican land grants work better with the federal government on long‑standing, noncommercial uses of nearby public lands, like access, maintenance, and cultural activities. It requires the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and the Interior to sign written agreements with the New Mexico Land Grant Council within two years. These agreements explain which traditional uses need permits, how to apply, what fees may be charged, and when fees can be reduced or waived. They also outline what upkeep and bigger projects can be allowed (for example, fixing roads and fences, maintaining wells and cemeteries, or building trails) and how communities will get notice and a chance to comment on planning that could affect these uses. The agreements themselves do not give automatic approval; they describe the steps to get permission under existing laws. Land use plans must also consider how other uses might impact these traditional activities. The bill does not change Tribal rights, state control of water or wildlife, or any existing rights on federal land. It does not create any new right to use federal land.

Key points

• Who is affected: Heirs and governing boards of New Mexico community land grants from Spain or Mexico; the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and the Interior; and nearby Indian Tribes must be consulted.
• What changes: Agencies must create and renew agreements that clarify permits, processes, and fees; consider fee reductions based on community income and land‑grant budgets; include what maintenance and major improvements may be allowed; and ensure notice and comment on planning. Land use plans must weigh impacts on traditional uses.
• Limits: The bill does not itself approve any specific use, change Tribal rights, change state authority over water or wildlife, or affect valid existing rights.