New Mexico has set a shining example of how to protect its people from the harms of the Big Brutal Bill, also known as H.R. 1. The bill, signed into law by President Trump, has stripped health insurance from over 5 million Americans and taken food off the tables of families, seniors, and veterans.

New Mexico’s Response

In response to the bill’s devastating impacts, New Mexico’s Democratic state lawmakers stepped up to protect their constituents. In two special sessions and this year’s 30-day legislative session, they passed a slate of investments and policies to shield New Mexicans from the bill’s harm.

These efforts include dedicating $33 million to expand state-level nutrition programs, such as SNAP and WIC, and providing $8 million to statewide foodbanks. They also increased funding to the Health Care Authority to help New Mexicans navigate the complicated new rules in H.R. 1’s unfunded mandates.

Additionally, New Mexico strengthened its Healthcare Affordability Fund, allowing the state to help those kicked off of Medicaid find affordable insurance through the marketplace. The state also delivered $24 million for rural residencies and rotations and $50 million to stabilize rural providers, ensuring families have access to local care.

Immigrant Safety Act

New Mexico’s lawmakers also took action to protect immigrants, passing the Immigrant Safety Act. This law gets New Mexico out of the business of for-profit civil immigration detention and prevents ICE from deputizing local officers, making the community safer for all.

New Mexico has shown that it is possible to protect its people from the harm caused by the Big Brutal Bill. The state’s efforts demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of its residents and its determination to uphold the values of equality and opportunity.

Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.