New Mexico in Focus Senior Producer kicks off the show with updates on several pieces of legislation moving through the Capitol in Santa Fe. That includes the possibility of a slight increase on alcohol included in an omnibus tax bill, HB 547, which passed the House Taxation and Revenue Committee Monday morning. This is something we've been covering for months, mainly due to the work of Journalist Ted Alcorn and New Mexico in Depth. You can read a recent story by Marjorie Childress and Trip Jennings on the influence of alcohol lobbyists here: Powerhouse Lobbyists on Tap for Alcohol Industry.

Next, Political Correspondent Gwyneth Doland speaks with two doctors and a lawmaker about several healthcare bills circulating in the Roundhouse. Ophthalmologist Dr. Angie Braxton and pediatrician Dr. Nancy Wright share their perspective on the state’s growing problem of attracting and retaining doctors, and St. Rep. Elizabeth Thomson, (D) Albuquerque, gives some insight on several other healthcare bills she’s supporting.

Then, Gene Grant and the Line Opinion Panel discuss a possible statewide expansion of Medicaid coverage, and the Governor's decision to pause the state's provider procurement process. 

Gene and the Panel also explore some of the developments in New Mexico’s efforts to pull itself up from dead last in literacy including a new training program for elementary school teachers. 

Finally, Gene speaks with University of New Mexico Law Professor Sonia Gipson Rankin about her career, and her work. Professor Gipson Rankin comments on some of the systemic issues in our criminal justice system that contribute to racially disproportionate incarceration rates, and how the growing use of artificial intelligence factors into that equation. 

Host: Lou DiVizio

Political Correspondent: Gwyneth Doland

Line Host: Gene Grant

Guests: 

Dr. Angie Braxton, ophthalmologist

Dr. Nancy Wright, pediatrician

St. Rep. Elizabeth Thomson, (D) NM District 24 - Albuquerque

Sonia Gipson Rankin, J.D., University of New Mexico School of Law

Line Panelists: 

Martha Burk, political psychologist and author

Edmund Perea, attorney and public safety analyst

Tom Garrity, founder & president, the Garrity Group Public Relations

For More Information: 

Proposed Legislation Would Expand Medicaid Eligibility, Create Low-Cost Plans Through Program - Albuquerque Journal

Bill Overhauling NM High School Graduation Requirements Approved by House - Albuquerque Journal

Professor Sonia Gipson Rankin - Twitter