This bill amends existing laws related to public schools in New Mexico, specifically focusing on the rights of students enrolled in federally recognized Indian nations, tribes, and pueblos. It permits these students to wear tribal regalia, objects of cultural significance, and tribally significant footwear during graduation ceremonies and public school events. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of non-discrimination in school discipline policies, prohibiting any form of discipline, discrimination, or disparate treatment based on a student's race, religion, culture, or their use of protective hairstyles and cultural or religious headdresses.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that local school boards and charter schools must include provisions in their discipline policies that allow for the wearing of tribal regalia and ensure that students are not subjected to discrimination based on their cultural identity. The legislation also establishes a policy of non-discrimination for charter schools, reinforcing the same protections against discrimination and disparate treatment. The bill declares an emergency, indicating the need for immediate implementation to safeguard the rights and cultural expressions of students in public schools.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-8B-4
Final Version: 22-8B-4