SANTA FE, NM — On February 21, the New Mexico House voted to advance HB4, legislation that will restore voting rights to over 17,000 New Mexicans impacted by discriminatory felony disenfranchisement laws, enhance voter data privacy, improve automatic voter registration, make Election Day a school holiday, and increase ballot access for Tribal communities.

Brett Edkins, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs, for the Advocacy Group Stand Up America commented on the passage,“…the New Mexico House reaffirmed that a truly representative democracy requires every eligible voter to be able to cast their ballot without barriers. The House passage of HB4 is a pivotal step to protect the freedom to vote in the Land of Enchantment, setting New Mexico apart from other states that are actively restricting the right to vote.

“From guaranteeing much-needed resources for polling places and secure drop boxes in Tribal communities, to rectifying the injustice of discriminatory felony disenfranchisement laws, the New Mexico Voting Rights Act will help build a democracy that works for all New Mexicans.

“We urge legislators in the Senate to follow the House’s lead and protect everyday New Mexicans’ freedom to vote by swiftly passing this crucial legislation.”