LIBRARIAN PROTECTION ACT

HB 27, the Librarian Protection Act, requires New Mexico public libraries to adopt policies preventing the banning of library materials based on content, author's race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or political/religious views. Libraries must follow either the American Library Association's 2019 Library Bill of Rights or a state-approved policy explicitly prohibiting such bans to receive state funding. The law also prohibits local governments from reducing a library's funding for complying with these policies. It takes effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to protect diverse library collections and access for all patrons.