Racial & Ethnic Equity Publications
Essential but Excluded
Report Despite the fact that immigrants work, pay taxes, and are a vital part of our economy, many were left out of the relief packages Congress passed to help blunt the coming recession and assist displaced workers and small business owners. Not only is that harmful to many New Mexico children and families, it also will impede our ability to rebuild our economy. (State- and some county-level data on selected demographics, and state-level data on immigrant tax contributions)
It’s Time to Repeal the Capital Gains Deduction
Policy Brief New Mexico is one of just nine states to effectively tax capital gains less than the wages and salaries earned by hard-working New Mexicans. Beginning in 2003, those with capital gains income – who are overwhelmingly the wealthiest in New Mexico – were allowed to deduct 50 percent of their capital gains from their state income taxes. In 2019, legislators reduced the amount to 40 percent.
Professional licensure means an inclusive workforce and a better future for New Mexico
Fact Sheet Like most states, New Mexico has a shortage of professionals whose occupations require licensure -- most notably, doctors, dentist, and teachers. We cannot afford to lose talented professionals, but we are because of federal laws that keep educated and trained immigrants from getting the professional licenses required to practice here. New Mexico needs to follow other states that have removed these barriers.
Expanding New Mexico’s Best Anti-Poverty Program
Policy Brief These tax credits reduce poverty, improve outcomes for children, and incentivize employment for workers earning low incomes. A growing body of research shows that tax credits like the EITC and WFTC improve the health and well-being of the families and children who receive them.
2019 New Mexico KIDS COUNT Data Book
NM KIDS COUNT Data Book We're seeing good news and bad news in this annual publication of the latest data on child well-being in New Mexico. While the child poverty rate has improved, for example, New Mexico still ranks near the bottom of the nation on this indicator. Besides data, policy recommendations are included so the state can take action to improve child well-being. (State-, county-, tribal-, and school district-level data on indicators of child well-being; data by race and ethnicity where available)