Nathan Saavedra Project Manager | Equality New Mexico
The legislative session in New Mexico has seen a flurry of activity with several bills advancing through committees and floors. Among these, HB339, known as the Housing Discrimination & Human Rights Act, passed the Senate Tax, Business & Transportation Committee. This legislation aims to prohibit housing discrimination based on a renter’s source of income.
In another development, HB347 or Behavioral Health Financial Aid has been added to the state budget following its passage through the House Appropriations & Finance Committee. The bill is now complete, with thanks extended to legislators and partners who supported it.
SB166, addressing the definition of harm to self and others, was unanimously passed by the Senate floor. However, there are concerns that this bill could disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ individuals by broadening criteria for “harm to self” to include an inability to manage daily responsibilities.
There was also progress for HB518 or LGBTQ+ Day, which passed the House floor with a 43-11 vote. This bill would establish an official day dedicated to recognizing LGBTQ+ communities on the fourth Tuesday of January in odd-numbered years. Representative Marianna Anaya led this initiative.
SB404, focusing on healthcare privacy protections, moved forward from the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee to the Senate Judiciary Committee. It aims to enhance privacy safeguards for patient records including gender-affirming care information.
Additionally, SB417 concerning confirmatory adoptions passed through the House Judiciary Committee and awaits further consideration. This bill seeks legal protection for families with same-sex parents against federal challenges.
The session is set to conclude soon on March 22nd. Advocates continue their efforts encouraging support and participation from community members in various forms such as donations and social media engagement.
An event titled "Resilience 2025" is scheduled for May 31st at Albuquerque Social Club to celebrate strength and unity within the LGBTQ+ community.
