Our friend and colleague, Susan Loubet of New Mexico Women’s Agenda, and who practically lives at the State Capitol during the session in order to keep us all informed on the legislation that is of particular importance to advancing women and girls, has filed the following report:
1. The Governor signed HB 304 (Rep. Chasey) regarding Human Trafficking. The bill provides for broader protection and services for victims. Susan suggests that we all thank the Governor for signing the bill.
2. HB 300 School Excused Absences for Pregnancy-increasing the possible sick days for pregnant and parenting teens for their illnesses, or those of their children was also enacted.
3. Receiving a pocket veto, once again, was SB43 (Lopez) Treatment for Substance Abusing Pregnant women. Since it was a pocket veto, we don’t know the Governor’s reasons for vetoing this legislation, but this bill was substantially broadened and weakened from the bill that she pocket-vetoed two years ago.
4. Vetoed: Continuing funding for the Commission on the Status of Women in HB2. Susan suggests you could comment on this also, in your message to the Governor.
That’s all for now folks! Thanks for your commitment to being informed on the issues that affect women and girls in our state!