Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee voted 4-2 to advance House Bill 9, which would prohibit state-funded entities from detaining individuals as a part of federal mass deportation efforts.
HB 9 would prevent state agencies, local governments, commissions, school districts, colleges, universities, and any other state taxpayer-funded bodies from being used to detain people for civil immigration violations. The bill would not interfere with law enforcement's authority to detain individuals for investigatory purposes.
"In New Mexico, we know immigrants play an essential role in our workforce, economy, culture, and communities," said lead sponsor Rep. Eleanor Chávez (D-Albuquerque). "As the federal government threatens to separate mothers from their children and uproot our friends and neighbors, New Mexico is stepping up to protect our people and prevent our state resources from being misused to facilitate mass deportations that would create a humanitarian crisis and upend our economy."
HB 9 now moves to the House Judiciary Committee. The bill is also sponsored by Reps. Andrea Romero (D-Santa Fe), Angelica Rubio (D-Las Cruces), and Christine Chandler (D-Los Alamos).
Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.
