The Roundhouse in Santa Fe. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com

STATE News:

SANTA FE – The Sensitive Personal Information Protection Act has passed the Senate Public Affairs Committee. House Bill 141, sponsored by Rep. Miguel Garcia (D-Albuquerque), creates a clear and strong confidentiality policy that keeps certain sensitive personal information from being disclosed by state employees.

The protected information would include social security numbers, Individual Tax ID numbers, a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, immigration status, national origin, religion, a person’s status as a crime victim, or a recipient of public assistance.

“New Mexico needs a strong confidentiality policy,” Rep. Garcia said. “By adopting a strong confidentiality policy, New Mexicans will not have to think twice before accessing health & public services, including collaborating with law enforcement as witnesses. All New Mexicans’ personal information needs to be protected, especially members of vulnerable communities.”

While some state agencies have clear standards for handling this sensitive personal information, others have none. By not having a clear standard across the board with additional protections, some New Mexicans are wary of sharing this information when accessing crucial public safety services and government programs.

House Bill 141 now heads to the Senate Judiciary Committee for further consideration.