NM tax revenue IS volatile (because we rely on oil/gas AND policymakers haven’t diversified it)

According to a recent Pew Center report New Mexico has very volatile tax revenues when compared to other states. That report was discussed in some detail in this Center Square story. New Mexico had the fourth highest volatility in tax revenue collection over the past 20 years.

What can be done? At the Rio Grande Foundation we have argued regularly for economic diversification through the introduction of more economic freedom, but Democrats who control the Legislature and Governor’s mansions have stood steadfastly against serious economic reforms including, but not limited to, gross receipts tax reform.

The following chart taken from the Pew chart directly shows that NM has the greatest volatility among its neighbors.