Rebecca Dow, a representative for New Mexico's State House District 38, has voiced criticism of the "Children's Safe Spaces" bill. She expressed her concerns on February 12 via a post on X, stating that the bill implies Representative Sena Cortez cares less about her daughter than distant leftists.
"It's personal," said Dow, State Representative. "Often bills that impact our rural districts are introduced by people who live far away. To call a bill “Childrens safe spaces” is suggesting that this far away leftist cares more about Rep Sena Cortez's daughter more than her own mother does. What a scam."
The post by Dow referenced a quoted post from Representative John Block, which included video footage from a hearing on House Bill 35: Children’s Health Protection Zones. In the video, Representative Elaine Sena Cortez questioned committee chair Representative Joanne J. Ferrary regarding the introduction of the bill despite opposition from residents in Sena Cortez’s district. During this exchange, Ferrary reportedly shut down Sena Cortez.
Screenshot of State Representative Rebecca Dow's Feb. 12 Post on X
| X
House Bill 35 was introduced by Representatives Joanne J. Ferrary and Debra M. Sariñana. The proposed legislation would require oil and gas operators to create inventories of children’s health protection zones. These zones are defined as areas extending one mile (5,280 feet) from the property line of a school. Within these zones, operators would need to implement plans for leak detection and response, conduct water quality sampling and testing, and cease operations if they violate the air quality control act.
Sena Cortez represents New Mexico House District 62 in Lea County, which includes communities such as Knowles and Humble City according to Ballotpedia.
Rebecca Dow is a Republican politician representing New Mexico's House District 38, encompassing Grant, Hidalgo, and Sierra counties. She previously served as a state representative and reclaimed her seat in 2024 after defeating Democratic incumbent Tara Jaramillo. Her campaign emphasized pro-business initiatives, education reform, and her strong record in early childhood education and community service.