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HB 187 New Mexico House · 2026 Regular Session

RURAL HOSPITAL MALPRACTICE LIABILITY INS. ACT

HB 187 creates a state-funded grant program to help rural hospitals cover medical malpractice insurance premiums. Eligible hospitals - defined as those licensed in rural or frontier areas operating within health care underserved regions - can apply for grants to pay for approved malpractice insurance. The bill appropriates $66 million for fiscal year 2026 and subsequent years, with unspent funds not reverting to the general fund. The Department of Health will administer the program, requiring hospitals to use grant money solely for premiums and submit annual reports on financial stability, staffing, and patient access.
Issues: ✓ Budget & TaxesSupports Budget & TaxesAppropriates $66M for rural hospital malpractice insurance grants, increasing public service funding under state budget authority.90% confidence ✓ HealthcareSupports HealthcareFunds malpractice insurance for rural hospitals, ensuring continued access to care in underserved areas through direct state financial support.95% confidence
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 27, 2026 Last action Mar 24, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
2
Key actions
1
Committee
1
Jan 27, 2026
Lower · Passed
not printed House Rules and Order of Business Committee
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Wonda Johnson
Wonda Johnson
DDemocratic
NM
5