Influence Happens Before the Session: The Power of Interim Committees

When most people think of lobbying or advocacy, they picture packed hearing rooms, live debates, and fast-moving decisions during the legislative session. However, in New Mexico, some of the most consequential policymaking happens months before the session begins, during a quieter but highly strategic period: The Interim.

What Are Interim Committees?

Interim committees are non-voting legislative bodies composed of both senators and representatives. They meet between sessions—typically from May through November—to:

• Conduct oversight of key state agencies and previously enacted legislation.

• Explore complex policy areas that require extended study.

• Prepare legislative recommendations for the upcoming session.

While they don't pass bills, interim committees often set the stage for what will pass once lawmakers return to Santa Fe. This is where legislative priorities are born, and advocates can make a lasting impact.

Why Interim Committees Matter to Advocates

Engaging during the interim offers advocates a unique and often underutilized opportunity to influence public policy:

• Time and space for deeper engagement: Unlike the rushed pace of the session, interim meetings allow for more thoughtful presentations, nuanced discussion, and in-depth briefings.

• Opportunities to shape the conversation: Many study topics and committee agendas are determined early. Thisgives advocates a chance to suggest or inform what issues are examined.

• A chance to build champions: Legislators who learn about your issue during the interim are far more likely to carry or support your bill during the session.

By the time a bill is filed in January, it has often been months in the making. Engaging early means influencing not just a vote—but the very agenda of the Legislature.

What You Can Do Right Now

To effectively engage during the interim, consider the following steps:

1. Identify Your Committee(s)

Every issue has a legislative home:

• Criminal justice? → Courts, Corrections & Justice Committee

• Education? → Legislative Education Study Committee

• Health care? → Legislative Health & Human Services Committee

• Water or land use? → Water & Natural Resources Committee

Find the committee that aligns with your priorities.

2. Learn the Players

• Who chairs the committee?

• Who are the members?

• Who are the analysts and staff contacts?

These individuals play critical roles in setting agendas and shaping committee discussions.

3. Track the Schedule

Most interim committees meet monthly. Agendas are posted in advance and often include opportunities for public testimony or written submissions.

4. Show Up

Attend meetings—either in person or virtually. Submit materials. Offer testimony. Be present and engaged.

5. Provide Briefings or Informational Materials

Don't wait to be invited. Reach out to staff or legislators with backgrounders, data, community stories, and policy recommendations. Being proactive builds credibility and opens doors.

Final Thought

Interim is not the off-season — it's the prep season.

If you wait until January to engage, you've already missed the opportunity to shape the debate.

By participating in the interim, you gain access to the full policymaking arc—from problem identification to solution design to final legislation. Start showing up now, build relationships with key committee members, and become a trusted voice on your issue before the final decisions are made.

At Maki Campaign Solutions, we help advocates, nonprofits, and coalitions develop targeted interim strategies to make their voices heard when it matters most.

📩 Want support developing your interim engagement plan? Let's talk.