Bill > HB27

This bill, called the Librarian Protection Act, aims to prevent book banning in New Mexico public libraries by requiring libraries to adopt policies that protect intellectual freedom. The bill defines "banning" as removing or prohibiting library materials outside of an established collection development policy, and establishes that public libraries will be ineligible for state funding unless they adopt a written policy aligned with the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights. Specifically, libraries must prohibit removing materials based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval, or due to an author's race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, political, or religious views. The bill explicitly protects individuals' rights to challenge library materials through approved procedures while preventing political subdivisions from reducing library funding as a result of compliance with these provisions. Importantly, the bill sets its effective date as July 1, 2025, giving libraries time to adapt their policies to meet the new requirements. By protecting diverse materials and preventing censorship, the bill seeks to ensure that public libraries remain open, inclusive spaces that support intellectual freedom and access to information.

Business and Industry

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=27&year=25