This bill amends various sections of the New Mexico Statutes to ensure that during public emergencies, rules or directives issued by government entities that close or limit businesses must include exemptions for facilities operated by religious organizations that are tax-exempt under federal law. Specifically, it introduces new language in multiple sections, including the All Hazard Emergency Management Act, the Public Health Emergency Response Act, the Riot Control Act, and the Energy Emergency Powers Act, mandating that any closures or limitations must also apply to religious facilities to the same extent as the most permissive exemptions provided for other businesses.

Additionally, the bill establishes that individuals or entities harmed by violations of these provisions can seek declaratory or injunctive relief or monetary damages, with the possibility of punitive damages if malicious or reckless enforcement is proven. The bill also repeals and enacts certain sections to clarify these exemptions and their implications, ensuring that religious organizations are treated equitably during emergencies. The effective date for these provisions is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 12-10-1, 12-10-4, 12-10-5, 12-10-10.1, 12-10-18, 12-10A-17, 12-12-3