Summary:

 House Bill 37 (HB 37) appropriates $250,000 from the General Fund to New Mexico Highlands University for Fiscal Years 2025 through 2027. The appropriation funds a feasibility study to assess the potential acquisition of Star Axis, a privately owned sculptural observatory in San Miguel County. The study includes cost assessments for legally necessary upgrades, determination of long-term operational and staffing needs, evaluation of scientific and educational uses, and the potential for establishing a land art tour network. 

Legislation Overview:

 House Bill 37 (HB 37) proposes a $250,000 appropriation from the General Fund (GF) to New Mexico Highlands University for Fiscal Years 2025 through 2027 (FY25-FY27) for a feasibility study related to the acquisition of Star Axis. The study will evaluate the costs of legal and structural upgrades for public access, the long-term operational and staffing requirements, and the potential educational and scientific applications of the site, such as collegiate-level training in collaboration with state educational entities. It will also explore the viability of creating a land art tour network to promote tourism and cultural engagement.

The sculptural observatory, Star Axis, is a monumental land art project by artist Charles Ross. Located in San Miguel County, it aligns with celestial events to offer unique astronomical experiences. Its chambers and passages are designed to connect humanity with the cosmos, enhancing its value as a cultural and scientific asset. 

Any unexpended funds remaining at the end of FY27 will revert to the GF.
 

Current Law:

 Currently, there is no state funding or statutory mandate to evaluate or acquire the Star Axis sculptural observatory. The property remains privately owned, and there is no formal framework for its integration into public or educational use. Existing laws do not address the establishment of a land art tour network or public access upgrades for private land art installations.