Arlo Luis Menchaca, an EQNM Legislative Fellow, provided a legislative update highlighting significant progress in several areas concerning LGBTQ+ rights and data privacy. According to Menchaca, EQNM staff have been actively advocating for these issues at the roundhouse.

Among the notable developments is SB417, the Confirmatory Adoptions Bill, which has successfully passed through both the Senate floor and the House Health Committee. This bill aims to streamline the adoption process for parents adopting their existing children and ensures recognition across jurisdictions.

HB518, which proposes establishing New Mexico LGBTQ+ Day to honor LGBTQ+ leaders and achievements, also cleared committee hurdles.

In terms of data privacy protections, HB307/SB420 seeks to limit access, retention, and sales of personal information to protect vulnerable communities. Additionally, HB430 strengthens safeguards for sensitive health data under the Health Data Privacy Act. SB36 enhances protections for personal information held by state agencies.

Voting rights are set to expand with HB526 passing through committee; it allows 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in local elections. Meanwhile, HB60 advances transparency in AI use with its movement to the House floor. Both HB9 and SB250 progressed through their respective committees as well as HB9 passing on the House Floor. These bills aim to prevent state resources from enforcing federal immigration laws or detaining individuals in civil immigration custody.

A proposal seen as restricting trans youth rights—HB543—was tabled in committee. The bill sought parental consent for gender-affirming and reproductive care for minors but was not advanced further.

Concerns were raised over HB410 after its passage through committee this week. Despite being labeled a “data privacy” bill aimed at consumer protection, it has drawn criticism due to heavy influence from Big Tech lobbyists and resemblance to ineffective legislation elsewhere.

Menchaca emphasized continued advocacy efforts against influential tech companies prioritizing profits over safety concerns of LGBTQ+ people and immigrants.

The end of the Legislative Session is approaching on March 22nd. EQNM encourages public support through donations or sharing their advocacy messages online.