Representative John Block introduced House Bill 521, the Agritourism Promotion Act, saying the measure strengthens New Mexico’s agricultural economy by supporting on-farm activities that bring visitors to farms and ranches. Block said the bill provides limited liability protections for agritourism operators while retaining liability for negligence or reckless conduct.

Block and his expert witness, R.B. Nichols of Nichols Ranch and Orchards in Otero County, described agritourism activities covered by the bill as including pick-your-own operations, hayrides, corn mazes, winery tours and educational field trips. Nichols said agritourism helped his family farm survive recent economic pressures and that insurance availability and cost are practical barriers for small operations.

Public testimony supported the bill. David Lucero of JL Farms said the law would make it easier to offer pick-your-own operations and attract insurance. Jillian Joyce of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union said liability concerns deter agritourism and that the bill would help diversify farmers’ incomes and educate the public about agriculture. Kelly Fajardo of the New Mexico Livestock Bureau and Taos Mayor Pascual Maestas also spoke in favor.

Ranking Member Lord and other members used examples such as pumpkin patches and corn mazes to illustrate the inherent risks of outdoor agritourism; sponsors and advocates responded that the bill would not protect operators from willful or wanton negligence or from hazardous conditions the operator knowingly left unaddressed. Sponsors compared the statutory approach to other state laws such as equine liability acts and noted the department review that identified typical agritourism activities.

Representative Lord moved a due-pass recommendation on HB 521; the committee recorded a unanimous vote in favor and the chair announced a due pass. The bill advances to the next House stage.