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 that mandates these exemptions in the context of the All Hazard Emergency Management Act, the Public Health Emergency Response Act, the Riot Control Act, and the Energy Emergency Powers Act. The bill also establishes a new section that allows individuals or entities to seek legal recourse, including declaratory or injunctive relief and damages, if they suffer harm due to violations of these provisions.

Additionally, the bill makes several amendments to existing statutes, including the repeal of a previous section and the enactment of new provisions that clarify the powers of the governor and local governing bodies during emergencies. It emphasizes the need for public notice of any proclamations and outlines the civil liabilities associated with the enforcement of emergency orders. The effective date for the provisions of this act 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