New Mexico voters to see major changes in primaries and marriage license fees
New Mexico will allow independent voters to participate in primaries starting in 2026. Meanwhile, marriage license fees will rise from $25 to $55 on June 20, 2025.
Independents will be able to vote in primaries starting in 2026; marriage license fees increase June 20
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - Two recent changes to state law will affect voters and couples planning to marry in New Mexico.
Beginning in 2026, voters registered without a political party will be able to cast ballots in major-party primary elections under a new semi-open primary law signed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Meanwhile, the cost of obtaining a marriage license in New Mexico will increase from $25 to $55 starting June 20.
Independent voters gain access to party primaries
Roughly 23% of New Mexico voters are registered as decline-to-state (independent). Under the state’s previous closed primary system, they had to change their registration to participate in a party primary — a barrier voting advocates said discouraged participation.
The new law allows independent voters to choose a party ballot at the polls without changing their registration. However, voters registered with a party still cannot vote in another party’s primary.
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“When more people have better access to voting, democracy wins — plain and simple,” said Doña Ana County Clerk Amanda López Askin. “Expanding access isn’t just the right thing to do. It’s our responsibility. When more voices are heard, the results better reflect who we are as a state.”
Groups like New Mexico Open Elections and Common Cause New Mexico supported the reform, which will be in place for the 2026 election cycle. The Secretary of State’s Office will lead efforts to inform independent voters of the change.
Doña Ana County officials say they will continue to provide accurate information and voter resources as implementation moves forward.
Marriage license fee increase takes effect June 20
Couples planning to marry in New Mexico will see an increase in marriage license fees starting June 20. Senate Bill 290, signed into law April 8, raises the cost from $25 to $55. The new fee structure is designed to support both county operations and statewide family services:
- $20 will go to the County Clerk’s Office to support administrative needs and technology upgrades
- $20 will fund the Children’s Trust Fund, which supports programs for at-risk youth and families
- $15 will go to the County General Fund
Marriage licenses issued before June 20 will remain valid, regardless of when the ceremony takes place. Couples can apply online and schedule an in-person appointment through the Doña Ana County Clerk’s Office. After the ceremony, the signed certificate must be returned within 90 days to be officially recorded.
Even after the increase, New Mexico’s marriage license fee will remain lower than in most neighboring states — where fees range from $50 to more than $80.
Clerk’s officials say the change reflects rising administrative costs and ensures continued support for essential services. Couples planning a wedding may want to apply before June 20 to take advantage of the lower fee.
For more information, visit the Doña Ana County marriage license page or call 575-647-7421.