New Mexico Legislation on Cellphone Ban and Health Insurance for Schools

In recent legislative developments in New Mexico, a proposal to ban cellphone use in schools has faced setbacks. Senate Bill 23, led by Senators Crystal Brantley and Antonio “Moe” Maestas, initially gained substantial bipartisan support in the Senate but failed to progress in the House due to the House Education Committee not convening. Despite being a gubernatorial priority, scheduling conflicts at the committee level stalled the bill's advancement.

Senator Brantley expressed disappointment since the bill had garnered bipartisan backing. Committee chair, Rep. G. Andrés Romero, cited last-minute scheduling challenges as a reason for the stall, though he showed interest in revisiting the issue. If enacted, SB 23 would position New Mexico as the 27th state to implement a school cellphone ban. The proposed bill included provisions for confiscating recording devices and securing devices during school hours with potential funding of up to $1 million.

Support emerged from educational boards and unions, though concerns arose over enforceability and potential state overreach. Separately, two education bills have passed; Senate Bill 37 seeks to improve literacy through enhanced assessments and resources, while House Bill 47 aims to reduce health insurance premiums for public school employees, mandating employers cover at least 80% of costs. Both await the governor’s approval to become law.