Dear Friends:
The sun is beginning to set on the 2020 Legislative Session which concludes Thursday at noon. While we continue to keep a close eye on things, here is a brief recap of some things that took place last week—the good, the bad, and the ugly.
The GOOD – Recreational pot stalls, Pregnant worker protection advances
After weeks of public debate and objections from concerned New Mexicans, efforts to legalize recreational marijuana stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. Although the tabled bill, SB115, can be revived, the time is quickly running out and most people agree that the bill is now dead for the remainder of this Legislative Session. On the day of the hearing, the bill’s sponsors introduced a troubling committee substitute bill which would have, among other things, granted licensing authority to labor unions and allowed convicted drug dealers to qualify for licenses. Ultimately, two Democrats joined the four Republicans on the committee to table the bill. Special thanks to all of you who responded to our Action Alerts by sending messages and making phone calls!
In the meantime, HB25—a pregnant worker accommodation bill—is just one step away from heading to the Governor’s desk. This legislation protects pregnant women from being terminated solely because of their pregnancy and requires employers to provide “reasonable accommodations” for them during the pregnancy. HB25 passed the House 65-0 and is now awaiting a full vote in the Senate.
The BAD – Governor maintains radical abortion talk
In spite of experiencing the biggest setback of her administration just 11 months ago—the defeat of HB51–Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham continues to make it clear that codifying abortion up-to-birth remains one of her top priorities. As reported by the Albuquerque Journal, the Governor recently spoke at a Planned Parenthood event and stated, “The second we have the votes in the Senate, that antiquated, absolutely outrageous law is gone.” The Governor’s remark demonstrates the growing division and tension between progressive and traditional Democrats in Santa Fe. Whether the Governor gets her wish will depend on the outcome of the 2020 Election.
The UGLY – Planned Parenthood planning to expand in New Mexico
While other states are passing pro-life legislation at a record pace, New Mexico remains a primary target of the abortion industry. NM Political Report has reported that Planned Parenthood considers New Mexico to be a key state for abortion access moving forward and they are already raising money to build a new abortion clinic in Albuquerque. According to the CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, New Mexico and Colorado serve as “a little island” where women can travel to obtain late-term abortions. Should other states continue to enact pro-life laws, expect New Mexico’s reputation as an abortion tourism destination to grow.
The Final Countdown
The Legislative Session concludes Thursday at noon and we will be at the Capitol until the final gavel drops. That said, if you appreciate the work we are doing and if you would like to see it continue, would you consider sending us a gift today? Click here to send your gift now and help us continue to fight for a New Mexico where religious freedom flourishes, families thrive, and life is cherished!
Thank you for your prayers and support.
The Kansas Family Voice of New Mexico Team