HOUSE DEMOCRATS News:

SANTA FE – Today, House Bill 25, which amends the Human Rights Act to add protection for pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions unanimously passed the House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee.

Sponsored by Rep. Gail Chasey (D-Albuquerque) and Sen. Elizabeth “Liz” Stefanics (D-Albuquerque), House Bill 25 expands the protections afforded to pregnant workers under the Human Rights Act, ensuring pregnant employees can earn a living and help uplift our state’s economy.

“It’s time to end these discriminatory practices and show the country that New Mexico stands up for pregnant workers and parents. Supporting workers with reasonable accommodations during pregnancy is not only good for families, it’s also good for business and for the state economy as a whole,” Chasey said. “Simply put, we don’t want mothers to have to choose between a safe pregnancy and stable employment. It’s past time that pregnant workers in our state are respected and treated with dignity so they and their children can be healthy.”

House Bill 25 amends the Human Rights Act to afford protections for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, stating that no employer can refuse to hire a person because of pregnancy-related conditions, as long as they are able to perform the major functions of the job.

House Bill 25 also would forbid discrimination based on pregnancy in any other aspect of employment, including pay, job assignments, promotions, training, benefits, and any other term of employment or because of the prejudices of the business owner, management, clients, or customers. 27 states currently have state laws prohibiting pregnancy and pregnancy-related discrimination.

House Bill 25 unanimously passed the House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee and now heads to the House Judiciary Committee.