Bill > HB405

This bill establishes the Volunteer Firefighter Service and Training Job Retention Act, which provides job protections and leave provisions for employees who serve as volunteer firefighters. The bill defines key terms, including a "certified fire department" (verified by the state fire marshal) and an "eligible employee" (a volunteer firefighter). Under the act, eligible employees can receive up to 112 hours of leave per calendar year for firefighter training and emergency response, with some important requirements. Employees must provide their employer with a signed statement from their fire department chief verifying their volunteer status and must give 30 days' notice for training leave. For emergency service leave, employees must notify their employer when called to service and provide verification of their time in service within three days after the leave. The leave can be unpaid, but employers cannot use these absences as a basis for termination, demotion, or reduction in annual leave, sick leave, or seniority accrual. The bill aims to support volunteer firefighters by ensuring they can fulfill their critical community service roles without jeopardizing their primary employment. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving employers time to prepare for the new requirements.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=405&year=25