New Mexico Lawmakers Push to Define AI Rules for Schools
New Mexico's Legislature needs to adopt formal policies on artificial intelligence use in classrooms, a state analyst told lawmakers this week. Right now, the state relies on a non-binding guidance document from 2025-leaving schools without clear rules on how to use AI tools.
Saraí Ortiz, an analyst for the Legislative Education Study Committee, presented recommendations Wednesday in Raton. She said New Mexico should establish policies covering data privacy, curriculum standards, and tribal sovereignty as schools adopt platforms like ChatGPT for lesson planning and chatbots for tutoring.
Other States Are Moving Faster
Across the country, state legislatures considered 134 pieces of AI-related education legislation in 2026 alone, spanning 31 states. More than half of all states, including New Mexico, have issued some form of AI guidance for schools.
Yet research on AI's actual impact remains mixed. A January 2026 Brookings Institution study found that current AI benefits "pale in comparison" to its risks in the classroom, Ortiz said.
Teachers See Both Promise and Peril
Sen. William Soules (D-Las Cruces) said he uses AI as a "thought partner" for writing and thinking through problems. He sees potential for classrooms, but cautioned against using AI as a substitute for critical thinking.
Rep. Debra Sariñana, a longtime math teacher, expressed caution. She said many teachers have a "love-hate relationship" with AI tools, particularly over concerns about how they might weaken students' problem-solving skills.
"There are times I want it coming from their brains, no computers anywhere around," she said.
Contract Negotiations Will Test the Issue
Whitney Holland, president of the New Mexico American Federated Teachers, said the union represents 30 school districts but none included AI language in their most recent contract negotiations. That will likely change soon.
"If not in this round of bargaining, by this time next year," Holland said the union expects AI to become part of contract talks.
The union's priority is protecting both students and teachers. Holland said AI will never fully replace quality teaching, and the union wants to ensure schools adopt these tools thoughtfully rather than rushing ahead.
For educators navigating these decisions, resources like AI Learning Path for Teachers can help build foundational knowledge. More information on AI for Education is also available.
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