The House has passed House Bill 11, which aims to provide paid family and medical leave, moving it forward to the Senate. The bill was approved with a vote of 38-31, despite significant opposition from businesses across the state. Among those opposing were five Democrats: Reps. Martha Garcia (D-Cibola & McKinley), Wonda Johnson (D-McKinley & San Juan), Patty Lundstrom (D-McKinley), Marian Matthews (D-Bernalillo), and Joseph Sanchez (D-Colfax, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel & Taos).

Opponents argue that the legislation poses risks to businesses and jobs. "We will continue to fight against this legislation that is a business and job killer," they stated. Republican members received numerous letters expressing disapproval of HB 11. Critics suggest that neither businesses nor many employees support the bill. They further argue that in a time marked by extraordinary inflation but large budget surpluses, raising taxes is unnecessary.

More details on this development will be covered in tonight’s Legislative RoundUp.