The proposed "Health Care Whistleblower Protection Act" aims to safeguard individuals who report unlawful or improper actions within health care entities in New Mexico. The bill defines key terms such as "whistleblower," "health care entity," and "retaliatory action," and establishes that health care entities are prohibited from taking retaliatory actions against whistleblowers who disclose information in good faith to government agencies, testify in investigations, or refuse to participate in unlawful activities. The identity of whistleblowers is to remain confidential unless they consent to its release.

Additionally, the bill grants whistleblowers the right to pursue civil action for damages against health care entities that violate these protections, including potential compensation for lost wages, reinstatement, and legal fees. It also requires health care entities to adopt and publicly post a whistleblower protection policy, ensuring that employees and patients are aware of their rights. The act stipulates a two-year limitation for filing civil actions and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.