DHSEM pushes for enhanced disaster readiness
$5.6 M budget addresses gaps in emergency management capacity
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management and the State Fire Marshal’s Office (DHSEM/SFMO) is requesting $5.6 million for fiscal year 2026 to enhance support New Mexican emergency responders.
“Disasters aren’t going to stop happening. And as we’ve seen in the last few months, they are coming faster than before,” said Interim Secretary Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar. “Investing in this agency will allow us to properly staff the EOC and better support local, county, and tribal emergency managers, and the citizens of New Mexico.”
The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) run through DHSEM has been activated four times in fiscal year 2024. The activations included wildfire, severe weather, and Election Day support, aiding all New Mexico counties, including 11 under a federal major disaster declaration.
In addition to providing resources for disaster response, the proposed budget includes:
- $1 million for improvements to facilities, including the State EOC.
- $275,000 for upgrades to department IT infrastructure.
- $480,000 for emergency towers used for backup public safety communication.
- $220,000 for increase capacity for disaster finance management.
Additionally, SFMO is requesting $40 million in Capital Outlay funding for updates to facilities and equipment at the State Fire Academy.
“DHSEM is a critical piece of public safety before, during, and after disasters – regardless of cause – and planned large-scale events. Approval of this budget will give DHSEM the ability to continue supporting New Mexico communities, especially during some of their most difficult moments,” said Maj. Gen. Aguilar.