David Gallegos, a state Senator for New Mexico District 41, expressed his support for expanding conscience protections for healthcare workers and the implementation of Safe Haven Baby Boxes across New Mexico. He made this statement during a press conference on March 20.
"We work for you. You don't have to beg us," said Gallegos, New Mexico State Senator, according to YouTube. "The baby boxes have nothing to do with abortion. New Mexico is failing New Mexicans, but we're willing to put money in for others from out of state."
According to AP News, a Safe Haven Baby Box in Hobbs, New Mexico, was utilized for the first time in September 2023. A newborn boy was safely placed in the climate-controlled box at a local fire station, which immediately alerted firefighters. The baby was then transported to a hospital for care. This event has been pivotal in New Mexico's efforts to expand the availability of baby boxes statewide following a notable case that led to legislative action.
The Guardian reported that in January 2025, the New Mexico Supreme Court invalidated several local ordinances that sought to limit access to mifepristone, an essential medication used in abortion care. The court unanimously ruled that these local laws violated the state legislature's exclusive authority over healthcare regulation. This decision confirmed that abortion access remains protected under state law in New Mexico, even as neighboring Texas enforces one of the nation's strictest abortion bans.
Abort73 highlighted that in 2023, there was a significant increase in abortions performed in New Mexico, with an estimated total of 20,980—more than triple the number reported in 2020. This rise is attributed to increased access within the state and an influx of out-of-state patients; notably, 62% of abortions performed in 2022 were on non-residents. The state's estimated abortion rate for 2023 stood at 51.6 per 1,000 women aged 15-44, significantly higher than the national average of 15.6.
Gallegos' website indicates he is a long-time advocate for conservative values within New Mexico. He is committed to defending life, Second Amendment rights, and supporting the state's vital oil and gas industry. With over two decades on the Eunice school board and a three-decade career in natural gas, he continues his service as a construction manager.
