The bill amends existing New Mexico law to declare the first Tuesday in November as "Election Day" and establishes it as a paid holiday for state and other public employees. This change is reflected in the addition of Election Day to the list of legal public holidays in Section 12-5-2 NMSA 1978. The bill also modifies Section 1-12-42 NMSA 1978 to ensure that voters are entitled to a full day's compensation from their employers for being absent from work to vote, rather than just two hours as previously stipulated.

Additionally, the bill specifies that certain employees, such as those necessary to supervise and administer elections, are exempt from the provisions allowing for time off to vote. It also establishes penalties for employers who refuse the rights granted to employees under this section, classifying such refusal as a misdemeanor with fines ranging from $50 to $100. Overall, the bill aims to enhance voter participation by ensuring that employees have the necessary time and compensation to exercise their right to vote on Election Day.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 1-12-42, 12-5-2