The controversial job-crushing “Welcome Child and Family Wellness Leave Act,” formerly known as the “Paid Family and Medical Leave Act,” narrowly passed the New Mexico House of Representatives last week, but not without significant pushback. While all Republicans opposed the bill, five Democrats also voted against it. Here’s a look at the five House Democrats who sided with the GOP in rejecting this legislation:
1. Rep. Martha Garcia (D-Pine Hill)
Garcia was recently appointed to the House, succeeding former Rep. Eliseo “Lee” Alcon. Although hailed as a “progressive,” her vote denotes maybe a more independent mindset.
2. Rep. Patricia Lundstrom (D-Gallup)
Lundstrom, a long-serving lawmaker known for her focus on fiscal responsibility, voted against the bill. Gallup businesses were notably vocal against the bill.
3. Rep. Wonda Johnson (D-Church Rock)
Johnson, representing a largely Native American constituency, rejected the bill with her vote against it.
4. Rep. Marian Matthews (D-Albuquerque)
Despite representing a district in Albuquerque, Matthews has maintained a more moderate stance on business regulations. Democrats attempted to defeat her in primary elections for rejecting the bill in the past, but she has been successful in fending off radical leftists in her party.
5. Rep. Joseph Sanchez (D-Alcalde)
Sanchez, known for his pragmatic approach to policy, voted against the bill, as he has in the past.
A Growing Divide Over Business and Labor Issues
The opposition of these five Democrats highlights a growing divide within the party over business regulations and economic policy. While proponents of the bill, such as Rep. Christine Chandler (D-Los Alamos), call it a “transformational” step for workers, critics argue that it could create a “workforce nightmare,” as House Republicans have described it.
With the bill now heading to the Senate, its fate remains uncertain. Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) has already raised concerns about the financial feasibility of using state funds for parental leave, signaling potential hurdles ahead. Whether Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham will sign the bill into law, if it reaches her desk, is another question entirely.
Bravo. Five Democrats is a start. Now the Republicans need to work harder & capitalize on converting more democrats. Great article!
Bravo. Five Democrats is a start. Now the Republicans need to work harder & capitalize on converting more democrats. Great article!
There goes the rest of the small businesses.
I thank the few democrats that pulled there heads out and voted against the bill. I am pretty sure our left leaning dems in the senate will vote yes. In theory it sounds like the right thing to do (support the bill) but when NM tax payers are footing the bill it does not seem right. NM should not be a socialist state but it is trying its best to be one. Socialism does not work to make a country better it exists to allow the leadership to live well and the serfs to suffer it out in the fields. New Mexicans need to wake up
How refreshing to know that at least some Democrats are using their brains!
Hi John,
What is the best way for the Pinon Post dedicated readers to ACT to help stop this bill? Should they call, e-mail, send postcards to Senators? Which Senators are the ones to focus? Is there an active link to access their contact info.?
Could you suggest the best choice of words to get their attention. Are there business alliances or conservative action groups you could call on to join us? The Pinon Post posse wants to HELP…
Some websites with legislative calls to take action that you can get involved with:
bettertogethernewmexico.org (take action to inform legislators}, nmfa.us (New Mexico Freedom Alliance), newmexico.gop (sign up for emails)