HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS

The New Mexico House of Representatives today unanimously passed legislation bringing needed reforms to the state’s medical school licensure system. 

Sponsored by House Democratic Majority Whip Rep. Doreen Gallegos (D-Las Cruces), House Bill 23 establishes standards for out-of-state medical schools that encourage these institutions to partner with New Mexico schools and hospitals. It also prevents out-of-state schools from cannibalizing residencies intended for New Mexico medical school graduates. 

“House Bill 23 ensures quality medical training programs within the state of New Mexico,” said Whip Gallegos. “This legislation ensures that New Mexico’s residency programs don’t become overwhelmed, helps keep talented med school graduates within the state, and builds the foundation for sustainable and high-quality residency programs.” 

Similar legislation is already in effect in many other states because, without it, an imbalance in available positions often occurs, forcing talented med school graduates to leave their states in search of residencies elsewhere. House Bill 23 is endorsed by the Interim Health and Human Services Committee, Interim Indian Affairs Committee, New Mexico Hospital Association, New Mexico Medical Society, and Lovelace Healthcare. 

HB 23 passed the House floor with a 65-0 vote, and will now move to the Senate for consideration.

Members of the public can track legislation on the New Mexico Legislature website, access committee meetings and House floor sessions via the Webcasts tab, or participate by Zoom to provide public comment on committee hearings. 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.