ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas says the state's natural resources are plentiful but there have been missed opportunities to create prosperity because minority communities haven't been involved. He announced Tuesday that he's establishing a council to look into bolstering inclusion of communities of color for decisions about environmental protection and access to natural resources.
The Equity Advisory Council that will start work soon includes state lawmakers and advocates who work on water, land and livestock issues. Balderas says he's open to adding more members because the goal is to welcome more diverse perspectives.