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Wednesday, Oct 16th

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You are here: News Politics Gov. signs HB 7, reproductive, gender-affirming health care act

Gov. signs HB 7, reproductive, gender-affirming health care act

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Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed into law House Bill 7, the Reproductive and Gender-Affirming Health Care Act, Feb. 16. The bill prohibits public bodies, including local municipalities, from denying, restricting, or discriminating against an individual’s right to use or refuse reproductive health care or health care related to gender.

HB 7 is sponsored by Rep. Linda Serrato, Rep. Charlotte Little, Rep. Kristina Ortez, House Majority Whip Rep. Reena Szczepanski, and Rep. Janelle Anyanonu.

“New Mexicans in every corner of our state deserve protections for their bodily autonomy and right to health care,” Lujan Grisham said. “I’m grateful for the hard work of the Legislature and community partners in getting this critical legislation across the finish line.”

Lead sponsor Serrato spoke about how her personal connection the bill.

“My family and I know firsthand how it feels for a birth plan to become a lifesaving surgery in an instant. House Bill 7 removes unnecessary barriers and protects access to essential health care,” Serrato said. “I am heartened that my daughters are growing up in a state that stands firm in our values, where we respect the complex decisions made by a person with their doctor.”

Little commented on the bill, saying it would give New Mexicans the freedom to make their own health care decisions.

“House Bill 7 will ensure that all New Mexicans can get the care they need to live healthy, happy lives,” Little said. “New Mexicans should be free to make their own deeply personal health care decisions in consultation with their families and their providers, without unnecessary barriers or discrimination.”

Ortiz explained how it would help non-binary and trans individuals.

“Trans and nonbinary individuals deserve the support and care necessary to survive and thrive,” Ortiz said. "Protecting gender-affirming health care is a critical part of making sure trans and non-binary New Mexicans can succeed in school, establish healthy relationships with their friends and family, and live authentically as themselves.”