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On October 28, 2025, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico signed a groundbreaking bill into law that allows members of the National Guard to sue the state for employment discrimination. This new legislation marks a significant milestone in ensuring that members of the military are protected from discrimination in the workplace.The bill, known as the National Guard Employment Protection Act, was introduced by State Senator Linda Lopez in response to numerous reports of discrimination and retaliation against National Guard members serving in the state. Under the new law, National Guard members who believe they have been discriminated against by their employers can file a lawsuit against the state for damages.Governor Lujan Grisham praised the passage of the bill, stating that it was essential to protect the rights of National Guard members who sacrifice so much for their country. She emphasized that all members of the military, whether active-duty or National Guard, deserve to be treated fairly and with respect in their civilian jobs.The new law has been met with widespread support from both military advocacy groups and lawmakers in New Mexico. Major General Kenneth Nava, the Adjutant General of the New Mexico National Guard, commended the state for taking steps to address the issue of employment discrimination.In addition to allowing National Guard members to sue the state for employment discrimination, the National Guard Employment Protection Act also provides legal protections for service members who are called to active duty. Employers in New Mexico are now required to reinstate National Guard members to their previous positions upon their return from deployment.Overall, the passage of this bill represents a significant victory for military members in New Mexico and sets a precedent for other states to follow suit in protecting the rights of National Guard members in the workplace. It marks a positive step towards ensuring that all service members are treated fairly and equitably in their civilian jobs.