The "Nondisclosure of Sensitive Personal Information Act" aims to protect sensitive personal information held by state agency employees in New Mexico. The bill defines "sensitive personal information" to include an individual's status as a recipient of public assistance or crime victim, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, medical condition, immigration status, national origin, religion, and social security number. It prohibits state agency employees from intentionally disclosing this information to anyone outside the agency, with specific exceptions such as compliance with court orders, requirements of the Inspection of Public Records Act, and disclosures made with written consent from the individual concerned.
Additionally, the bill amends the Motor Vehicle Code to enhance the confidentiality of motor vehicle-related records, making it unlawful for department employees or contractors to disclose personal information obtained in connection with driver's licenses or vehicle registrations, except under certain conditions. Violations of the act can result in civil penalties of up to $5,000. The enforcement of these provisions can be initiated by the attorney general, district attorneys, or the state ethics commission. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.