The New Mexico State Council of Machinists and Aerospace Workers recently met in Ruidoso, N.M., to strengthen their Political Action Committee and prepare the political activists for upcoming state legislative priorities.
The Council also completed necessary business to finetune its bylaws and operating procedures.
“I continue to be extremely proud of the advances our New Mexico State Council is making through increased transparency and modernizing how we operate our Council,” said New Mexico State Council of Machinists President John Dyrcz. “Building real power for working people is a team effort, and New Mexico Council delegates have rolled up their sleeves and are doing the real work needed to increase our footprint in both New Mexico policy and politics.”
The Council discussed its upcoming winter meeting and the legislative issues they’ll be lobbying on in-state, including pursuing a ban on captive audience meetings, safe-staffing hospital ratios, and a bill for paid family medical leave.
They also reviewed endorsements for U.S. Congressional candidates and New Mexico’s House and Senate races, and decided on support for New Mexico constitutional amendments.
IAM Western Territory Chief of Staff Bobby Martinez spoke on behalf of the Territory and General Vice President Allen, voicing the Western Territory’s support for the New Mexico State Council and congratulating them on the positive progress they’ve made so far.
“The New Mexico State council is a shining example of bringing diverse members together to build on the common purpose of building people to enhance their power, bringing meaningful change for working families in the state of New Mexico,” said Martinez.
IAM Legislative and Political Assistant Director Loren Ameroth gave an overview of the political landscape in New Mexico right now, laying out where the IAM’s priorities lie.
IAM Veterans Services Assistant Coordinator Bryan Stymacks informed Council members about the many member support services the IAM provides to members, like the Employee Assistance Program, Veterans Affairs claims processing, and alcohol and addiction resources.
IAM Grand Lodge Auditor Suzette Trout spoke to the Council about legal compliance in managing their finances.
The Council also examined the outlook for its endorsed candidate, Democratic U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, in his swing-seat congressional race.
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