Gail Armstrong, a representative from New Mexico's District 49, described House Bill 11 as a significant tax increase and endorsed House Bill 446 as a less burdensome alternative for parental leave. She made this statement in a press release on February 19.

"Today, six members of this committee dealt a major blow to small businesses," said Armstrong, New Mexico State Representative. "Heavy burden on workers and businesses alike. House Republicans remain committed to fighting for real economic opportunities that benefit hardworking families."

According to the press release, Armstrong's comments came after a narrow 6-5 vote by the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee approving a committee substitute for House Bill 11. The vote took place in Santa Fe, New Mexico, marking the bill's advancement despite opposition from Armstrong and other House Republicans. This development underscores ongoing legislative debates over paid family and medical leave policies in New Mexico, with Armstrong highlighting her party's concerns about the economic implications of the bill.

House Bill 11 has been characterized as imposing a tax burden, though specific details are not fully outlined in the release. Introduced in the 2025 session, HB 11 builds on previous Paid Family and Medical Leave proposals, with a substitute version passed on February 19, 2025. The substitute includes premiums of 0.15% from employers and 0.2% from employees for firms with more than five workers, which could disproportionately affect small businesses and workers.

House Bill 446 proposes six weeks of paid parental leave for birth, adoption, or first-time foster care placement without the broad tax increases associated with HB 11. Instead of new payroll taxes, HB 446 is funded by existing state resources. Its mention as the "Parental Leave Fund" aligns with Republican-backed proposals tracked on the New Mexico Legislature site, offering limited scope and cost compared to HB 11’s broader provisions.

According to the New Mexico Legislature, Armstrong has served as House GOP Leader since January 21, 2025, and has represented District 49 (Catron, Socorro, and Valencia counties) since 2017. Her focus has been on rural and business interests. A rancher and business owner herself, she was elected by the GOP caucus following the November 2024 elections.