HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS

Legislation would create new protected class under New Mexico’s Human Rights Act 

New legislation prohibiting discrimination based on a person’s military or veteran status unanimously passed the House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee Tuesday evening.

Sponsored by Rep. Harry Garcia (D – Grants) and Rep. Christine Chandler (D – Los Alamos), House Bill 113 would bring New Mexico veterans and members of the military into a protected class under the Human Rights Act.  

“Those, like myself, who have dutifully served our country should not struggle to find work, a place to live, or face any other form of discrimination,” said Rep. Harry Garcia a United States Marine Vietnam veteran. “House Bill 113 will help right this wrong against New Mexico’s current and former members of the armed forces.”  

House Bill 113unanimously passed the committee and will now advance to the House Judiciary Committee. 

Members of the public can track legislation on the New Mexico Legislature website and access committee meetings and House floor sessions on the Webcasts tab. During the 2021 Legislative Session, the House of Representatives is focused on passing critical legislation while protecting the health and safety of the public, the staff, and the legislators.