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

# Summary of HR 2785: New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act **What the bill would do:** This bill aims to improve coordination and cooperation between federal, state, and local government agencies regarding land management on New Mexico's historic land grants and mercedes (Spanish colonial land grants). The legislation would establish a framework for these entities to work together on issues affecting these lands, including their historical and traditional uses. The bill covers management of infrastructure, water resources, livestock grazing, roads, cemeteries, and other uses on these historically significant properties. **Who it affects:** The bill primarily impacts residents and communities in New Mexico that live on or use land grants and mercedes—areas with deep historical roots in Spanish colonial settlement.

It also affects federal and state land management agencies, local governments, and potentially anyone engaged in activities on these lands like ranching, water use, or cemetery maintenance. **Current status:** HR 2785 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. As of now, it remains in the early stages of the legislative process.