SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Monday signed 42 bills that mirror initiatives vetoed by her Republican predecessor.
The bills that were signed into law span issues from teacher pensions to child foster care and public disclosures by lobbyists.
Democratic House Speaker Brian Egolf said at a bill signing ceremony that there have never been so many bills approved in so little time. The Legislature convened Jan. 15. Both Republican and Democratic legislators attended the ceremony to applaud the legislation.
The signed bills would close a loophole that allowed lobbyists to buy politicians meals and drinks of up to $100 without disclosure, boost pensions for teachers with few absences at work and give first priority to the homes of extended relatives when children are placed in foster care.
Here is a glance at additional measures that were approved:
-A bill from Democratic Sen. Peter Wirth of Santa Fe would require a court order before law enforcement agencies can access an individual’s information on personal electronic devices such as cell phones and tablets.
-A bill from Sen. Mimi Stewart of Albuquerque would protect homeowners from being responsible for unpaid homeowner association fees from previous owners.
-Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from publishing the names of witnesses or people who say they were victims of sexual assault, stalking and related crimes until charges are filed.
-School districts with a large portion of Native American students will conduct assessments to determine what services are needed to help indigenous students prepare for careers or college or both. The assessments will be developed in consultation with tribal leaders and communities.
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