Spending time with EQNM, NMILC, CVNM, Innovation Law Lab, and El Centro before the HB9 hearing!
Friends, allies, and fellow New Mexicans,
This has certainly been a week full of both challenges and victories. As a community-based organization that participates in the legislative session each year, we can feel that the air is a little different. But even as things shift, we continue to fight for equality, justice, and the rights of LGBTQ individuals across New Mexico. From advocating for data privacy to ensuring protections for our youth, we are making sure our voices are heard.
HB339 - THE HOUSING DISCRIMINATION & HUMAN RIGHTS ACT - passed the Senate Tax, Business & Transportation Committee. This bill is critical for many New Mexicans as it prohibits housing discrimination based on a renter’s source of income.
Lastly, HB347, or BEHAVIORAL HEALTH FINANCIAL AID, has passed the House Appropriations & Finance Committee and is now officially added to the state budget. The bill is complete, and we are grateful to the legislators who voted yes, as well as the hardworking partners who fought to make it happen!
On the other hand, SB166, or HARM TO SELF & OTHERS DEFINITION, passed the Senate floor unanimously. Unfortunately, this bill broadens the criteria for “harm to self” to include an inability to manage daily responsibilities - which could disproportionately target LGBTQ+ individuals.
Now, let’s take a look at the work being done and what comes next in the fight for equality!
First up - good news! HB518, also known as LGBTQ+ DAY, passed the House floor with a 43-11 vote. This bill would designate the fourth Tuesday of January in each odd-numbered year as LGBTQ+ Day. Huge thanks to Rep. Marianna Anaya for leading this effort!
SB404, or the HEALTHCARE PRIVACY PROTECTIONS bill, passed the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee and is now on its way to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Just a reminder - this bill strengthens privacy protections for patient records by safeguarding sensitive health information, including gender-affirming care.
At the same time, SB417, THE CONFIRMATORY ADOPTIONS BILL, passed the House Judiciary Committee. It is currently placed on a temporary calendar, but we remain hopeful that it will be heard. This bill is crucial to ensuring families with same-sex parents are legally protected against federal attacks.
We will, of course, continue to keep our community informed about which bills are beneficial and which pose harm!
We’re up against billion-dollar tech companies that prioritize profits over the safety of LGBTQ+ people and immigrants.
Donate today to support our advocacy efforts.
Record yourself saying one of these quick messages and email it to info@eqnm.org:
“Protect LGBTQ people, protect our data!”
“Protect immigrants, protect our data!”
“Protect our communities, protect our data!”
“Pass Senate Bill 420 or House Bill 307 today!”
Save the Date!
RESILIENCE 2025 is Coming!
We’re excited to announce RESILIENCE 2025 - a celebration of strength, unity, and the LGBTQ+ community!
Saturday, May 31, 2025
11 AM – 2 PM | Albuquerque Social Club (21+ only)
Join us as we come together to honor resilience, uplift our community, and look ahead to a brighter future. Sponsorship packages and ticket information coming soon!
Stay tuned for more details, and mark your calendars - we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
DATES TO REMEMBER:
March 22nd the LAST DAY of the session!
Share this blog to five family members and friends—now is the time for every voice to join the movement to protect Queer and Trans New Mexicans! We only have about 7 days left!
