House Memorial 29 requests the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee to review the current rules for applying for and renewing driver's licenses for individuals with diabetes. The memorial highlights that existing regulations require these individuals to provide an annual physician's report confirming they have not experienced ketosis or other metabolic disorders, which can be burdensome, especially in rural areas. It points out that ketosis is a common condition and that the more serious ketoacidosis is relatively rare among those with type one diabetes. The memorial emphasizes the need for a reassessment of these rules in light of current medical practices to ensure they are not overly restrictive while still maintaining driver safety.
The committee is tasked with examining the existing rules and exploring less burdensome alternatives that could still ensure safety for drivers with diabetes. Based on their findings, the committee is also expected to develop legislation to update New Mexico's statutes regarding driver's licenses for this population. The memorial calls for copies to be sent to relevant stakeholders, including the chair and vice chair of the committee, the director of the motor vehicle division, and the chair of the New Mexico Diabetes Association.