Panel advances HB111 requiring first responders to make reasonable efforts to locate qualified service animals in emergencies

House Bill 111, which would amend New Mexico’s Service Animal Act to require first responders to make reasonable efforts, “to the extent practicable and while prioritizing human safety,” to search for qualified service animals at emergency scenes, received a committee due-pass recommendation by a 5–3 vote.

The bill was introduced with testimony from the bill sponsor and witness Rose Romero, a person who lost a long-serving service dog in a July water-main explosion. Witnesses from the Disability Coalition, Animal Protection Voters and Disability Rights New Mexico supported the proposal, calling the animals essential to the functioning and safety of many people with disabilities. Supporters emphasized the bill’s limiting language—"reasonable efforts" and "to the extent practicable"—and said it strikes a balance between protecting service animals and avoiding an undue burden on first responders.

Senators asked about training, liability and definitions. Sponsors and witnesses said: reasonable-effort language was intentional to avoid creating an absolute duty; training guidance would be developed with first-responder agencies; and the bill includes a definition of "first responder" in subsection (d). Senators warned of potential litigation risk because "reasonable effort" is not precisely defined and noted many first responders are volunteers in rural areas. Supporters replied that the change amends existing law rather than creating an entirely new obligation and that the intent is to provide actionable, nonabsolute guidance.

After debate and questions about liability, training and the scope of duties, the committee recorded a 5–3 vote in favor of a due pass. Committee members said additional work on training guidance and liability considerations may be necessary in later referrals, including House Judiciary.