Bill > HB26

This bill, titled "Prohibiting Book Banning At Public Libraries," aims to prevent public libraries in New Mexico from removing or excluding materials from their collections based on political or religious disapproval, or due to the race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or political affiliation of the author or intended audience. It establishes that such "book banning" is against the state's public policy. The bill requires public libraries to have a clear process for individuals to challenge materials they believe are obscene, unlawful, or don't fit the library's purpose. Furthermore, it prohibits any government entity from cutting a library's funding or retaliating against library staff for adhering to these provisions, particularly if a staff member refuses to remove materials based on a good-faith belief they are following the law. Libraries that violate these rules will lose eligibility for state funding, and the Library Division of the Cultural Affairs Department will be responsible for enforcing these new regulations, which will take effect on July 1, 2026.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=26&year=26