New Mexico Constitution Article XXIV - Leases on State Land
New Mexico Constitution – Article XXIV: Leases on State Land
Article XXIV governs the leasing of state-owned lands in New Mexico, setting rules and limits on how the state manages and leases its lands for various uses.
🔑 Summary of Article XXIV – Leases on State Land
Section 1 – Authority to Lease
The state has the authority to lease lands owned by it for agricultural, grazing, mineral, or other purposes.
Leases are managed by the State Land Office or other authorized state entities.
Section 2 – Terms of Leases
Lease terms are generally limited to a maximum of 40 years.
The state may include conditions and restrictions in leases to protect public interest and natural resources.
Section 3 – Renewal and Extension
Leases may be renewed or extended upon terms agreed by both parties.
Renewals usually must comply with current laws and regulations.
Section 4 – Revenue from Leases
Revenue generated from state land leases is typically used to fund public institutions, notably public schools and other trust beneficiaries.
The state is obligated to manage these lands to maximize revenue for beneficiaries.
Section 5 – Restrictions on Leases
Certain lands may be excluded from leasing or have special restrictions.
Leases cannot impair the public interest or violate environmental protections.
📝 Key Takeaways:
New Mexico constitutionally empowers the state to lease its lands but within strict time limits and regulatory oversight.
Lease revenues support important state functions, especially education.
The system balances resource use with public benefit.
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