ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Against expectations and despite predictions that the measure would pass, last night the Albuquerque City Council voted 5-4 to reject a proposal that would have placed a gross receipts tax increase on the November ballot. Americans for Prosperity-New Mexico (AFP-NM) activists were there to speak out against higher taxes at a time when Albuquerque families continue to face rising costs for everyday necessities.
AFP-NM Grassroots Engagement Director Bobbi Curtis issued the following statement:
“Last night proved that citizen engagement matters. Many believed this measure would pass. Instead, Albuquerque residents stood up, made their voices heard, and persuaded council members to reject another attempt to raise taxes on hardworking families.
“This victory belongs to the citizens who showed up. When government listens to the people, taxpayers win.”
New Mexico already has one of the highest combined gross receipts tax burdens in the nation. This misguided tax increase would further raise costs on goods and services that residents rely on every day, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income families.
Monday’s vote marks the second defeat for the proposed tax hike this year. AFP previously opposed the effort in March. Supporters later revived the proposal and sought to send it directly to voters in November. But more than 30 grassroots activists and concerned residents attended the meeting to oppose the proposal.