2024 LEGISLATION
- House Bill 302
- Status: Passed on February 29 2024 – 100% progression
- Action: 2024-02-29 – Signed by Governor – Chapter 21 – Feb. 29
- Summary: House Bill 302 expands the definition of “military status” under the New Mexico Human Rights Act to include members of the State Defense Force, ensuring they receive the same legal protections against discrimination as other military personnel. The bill also updates various statutes to recognize State Defense Force members and their families as eligible for state programs and services, such as resident tuition rates at state institutions and inclusion in the list of protected classes under anti-discrimination laws. By these amendments, the State Defense Force is formally acknowledged alongside federal military branches, providing its members with equitable rights and representation under New Mexico law.
- House Bill 235
- Status: Introduced on January 24 2024 – 25% progression, died in chamber
- Action: 2024-01-24 – Action Postponed Indefinitely
- Summary: Dept. Of Defense Recommended Changes – House Bill 235 amends New Mexico statutes to include members of the State Defense Force alongside traditional armed forces in definitions, eligibility for programs and services, and legal protections. It ensures that State Defense Force members, their spouses, and veterans are represented on various state commissions and councils, such as the Behavioral Health Planning Council, Next Generation Council, and Governor’s Commission on Disability. Additionally, the bill provides concurrent jurisdiction to the state over violations of law by children on military installations, potentially involving State Defense Force facilities. These changes recognize State Defense Force members as part of the broader military community in New Mexico.
2021 LEGISLATION
- New Mexico Senate Bill 146
- Summary: Description and Law authorizing State Defense Force
- Final Status: 2021-03-15 – Signed by Governor – Chapter 55 – Apr. 5
