Bill > HB436

This bill enhances protections for religious organizations during public emergencies by requiring that any government-issued orders, rules, or directives that close or limit businesses during emergencies and provide exemptions for some businesses must also include exemptions for facilities operated by tax-exempt religious organizations (501(c)(3) places of worship). Specifically, the bill amends several existing New Mexico laws, including the All Hazard Emergency Management Act, the Riot Control Act, the Public Health Emergency Response Act, and the Energy Emergency Powers Act, to mandate that religious facilities receive the "most permissive exemption" available to other businesses during emergency closures. The bill also provides legal recourse for religious organizations, allowing them to seek declaratory or injunctive relief, monetary damages, and potentially punitive damages if a governmental entity maliciously or recklessly enforces emergency closure orders that do not provide equal treatment. The provisions of this act will become effective on July 1, 2025, giving government entities time to prepare for and implement these new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=436&year=25