This bill mandates that public post-secondary educational institutions in New Mexico establish policies for the management of libraries and the administration of library programs and services. It introduces a new section that defines "library resources" and "library staff members," and outlines the responsibilities of the boards of regents and governing boards to prohibit discrimination and harassment related to library resources based on various characteristics, including race, gender identity, and disability. The bill also stipulates a uniform process for the removal or restriction of library resources, which can only be initiated by students and requires a thorough review process.
Additionally, the bill requires these institutions to adopt written policies by September 1, 2026, that align with the provisions outlined in the legislation, ensuring compliance with constitutional protections for freedom of speech. Importantly, it protects library staff members from retaliation for refusing to remove or restrict library resources without a final determination, thereby safeguarding their professional integrity and decision-making in accordance with the law.