The 2024 legislative session in New Mexico commenced this week, marked by the usual formalities and anticipation among those eager to represent their communities. Organizations such as EQNM, Planned Parenthood, ACLU, and the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Providers were present in significant numbers. Notably, Representative Cristina Parajon was welcomed as the first LGBTQ-identifying member of the Majority Caucus in the House.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham addressed public safety, gun safety, and climate change during her State of the State speech on Tuesday. She highlighted various bills focusing on crime prevention measures like increased waiting periods and assault weapons bans. Despite these initiatives, organizations like EQNM emphasize that increased policing does not necessarily equate to enhanced safety for LGBTQ individuals.

EQNM plans to remain active throughout the session alongside partners such as ACLU, Bold Futures NM, OLE NM, and the Southwest Women’s Law Center to advocate for LGBTQ rights.

Two key legislative priorities have been identified:

1. The Paid Family Medical Leave Act (House Bill 6 and Senate Bill 3) aims to allow New Mexicans time off work for family-related health issues or gender-affirming healthcare.

2. The Benjamin Higher Education Sexual Violence Prevention & Intervention Act (House Bill 151) seeks to establish affirmative consent as a standard in campus misconduct investigations.

Updates will be provided weekly on EQNM's news blog regarding crime and gun legislation details and other bill statuses. Daily updates are also available through social media channels.