SANTA FE – The New Mexico state House on Wednesday approved House Bill 225, another priority of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, with a unanimous vote in favor of the legislation.

House Bill 225 would establish the Kiki Saavedra Senior Dignity Fund, delivering an investment in improving and delivering high-priority services for seniors all across New Mexico.

Gov. Lujan Grisham issued the following statement:

“It is well past time that New Mexico steps up for its population of seniors, supporting their independence and providing for their needs,” the governor said. “We can and will do better for them. I want to thank House members for their support today on these crucial pieces of legislation, investing in our youngest kids and providing for the best possible environment for seniors all across our state.”

Legislation establishing the Senior Dignity Fund, named in honor of the late state Rep. Kiki Saavedra, is co-sponsored by Rep. Debbie Armstrong, Rep. Karen Bash, Rep. Susan Herrera, Rep. Jim Trujillo and Rep. Linda Trujillo.

The governor’s appointment of Katrina Hotrum-Lopez, secretary of the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department, which will oversee the Senior Dignity Fund, was unanimously confirmed by the state Senate late last week.