Bill > HB339

This bill expands New Mexico's Human Rights Act to provide more comprehensive protections against housing discrimination, specifically focusing on source of income and screening processes. The bill defines "source of income" broadly to include any lawful and verifiable monetary income, such as wages, social security benefits, pension, alimony, child support, and government or nonprofit housing assistance. It introduces the concept of an "invalid screening process" that fails to account for all sources of income or improperly calculates income requirements. The bill makes it an unlawful discriminatory practice for housing providers to discriminate against applicants based on their source of income and provides the Attorney General with enforcement authority to investigate and pursue civil or criminal actions against violators. Specifically, the Attorney General can investigate complaints, request documents, issue subpoenas, conduct interviews, and seek civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation. The bill aims to prevent housing discrimination by ensuring that individuals with diverse income sources, including those receiving housing assistance, have fair access to housing opportunities. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving stakeholders time to understand and implement the new requirements.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=339&year=25