House to Consider Omnibus Election Security and Voting Rights Bill in Judiciary Committee

Santa Fe, NM- Today the House Judiciary Committee will consider amendments to SB 144 that would integrate components of voting rights and election security legislation introduced this session into one omnibus bill. These amendments would improve voter registration and participation and ensure secure and efficient elections so every eligible New Mexican can actively engage in our democracy.

SB 144, sponsored by Senator Katy Duhigg (D-Albuquerque), focuses on preventing the intimidation of poll workers. The amendments introduced by Representative Daymon Ely (D-Corrales), would also clean up New Mexico’s election laws to preserve elections fairness and security, while also expanding ballot access and options for voter registration that would enfranchise more New Mexicans. 

“This bill will help remove barriers faced by New Mexicans in registering to vote or casting their ballots. With fundamental voting rights and election integrity under attack across the country, we have the opportunity to protect and expand people’s rights in New Mexico,” said Senator Duhigg. 

SB 144 helps protect poll workers from threats and intimidation. Also included in the omnibus are provisions to: 

·        Allow voters the option to automatically receive mail-in ballots 

·        Protect and expand voting opportunities for Native Americans residing on tribal lands

·        Automatically restore voting rights for individuals who have been convicted of a felony and are no longer incarcerated

·        Streamline the process of updating voter information to clean up New Mexico’s voter rolls

·        Require training for election observers, watchers and challengers

·        Change a variety of election procedures to ensure consistent, efficient, and secure election administration for all jurisdictions across New Mexico 

“Voters in every community in New Mexico need to know their voices will count in our elections,” said Majority Floor Leader Javier Martínez (D-Albuquerque). “This omnibus legislation ensures that voter rights will be protected in elections that are safe, secure and efficient.”

The amendments proposed by Representative Ely would consolidate voting rights and election-related measures into a single, comprehensive piece of legislation. 

“Bringing together the key measures in various elections and voting rights bills introduced during this session makes for a much more efficient process, because lawmakers can consider related measures all at once in a clean, compiled bill,” said Representative Ely. 

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.  

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