FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Wednesday announced the issuing of a proclamation assuring New Mexico children of all ages that health experts have determined Santa Claus, and all of his reindeer, are immune from COVID-19 and may safely visit homes all across New Mexico this holiday season.
The governor thanked New Mexico children for adapting their holiday traditions with their families this year to keep each other safe.

“The good cheer and glad tidings of the holidays are so important this year,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “I know we’re all excited to celebrate the holidays we’ve missed because of the pandemic – next year, the moment it’s safe to do so. There is hope, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. However you celebrate this holiday season, please be safe, please tell your loved ones you love them, and hold tight to the hope of next year, a brighter tomorrow, and putting this pandemic behind us. Happy holidays, New Mexico!”

The proclamation reads as follows:

WHEREAS, Santa Claus visits New Mexico every Christmas to visit the homes of boys and girls and deliver them presents; and 

WHEREAS, boys and girls all across New Mexico have been very good this year, making very adult sacrifices in their day–to–day lives, like attending classes online, keeping physical distance from others, including friends, and always wearing a mask when they go out with their parents and guardians; and 

WHEREAS, Santa Claus has determined the boys and girls of New Mexico are absolutely deserving of their regular apportionment of presents in accordance with their good behavior throughout this challenging year; and 

WHEREAS, health experts have determined Santa Claus and his reindeer are immune from and cannot spread illnesses of any type as he visits homes throughout New Mexico, the United States and the world; and 

WHEREAS, health experts have determined the North Pole has not had any cases of COVID–19, meaning Santa Claus can travel without risk to his health or the health of anyone whose home he visits, and 

WHEREAS, the good cheer Santa Claus represents is more important than ever as we hope and pray for a healthy and happy new year in our state: 

NOW THEREFORE, I, Michelle Lujan Grisham, Governor of the State of New Mexico, do hereby exempt Santa Claus from the state of New Mexico‘s social distancing and travel requirements and proclaim: 

“Santa Claus Is An Essential Worker”  throughout the state of New Mexico.