Santa Fe, NM — Today, the legislature's Facilities Review Subcommittee considered and approved the construction of a new single-occupancy, gender-neutral restroom on the fourth floor of the New Mexico State Capitol. This addition would not have been necessary if the capitol's progressive policies had not permitted biological males to use the existing women's restroom, leading to numerous complaints by female employees and lawmakers during this spring's legislative session. Furthermore, while this new facility is allegedly designed for those needing special accommodations, the failure of the legislative leadership to change its underlying policy ignores the legitimate concerns of women uncomfortable with men in their restroom.
During today's meeting, Senate Republican Leader Bill Sharer (R-Farmington) called for a policy change, saying, "While I appreciate the efforts made by the subcommittee, this new restroom facility accomplishes absolutely nothing for the safety and protection of women. Rather, it communicates to women that the demands of a fringe minority outweigh the sincere concerns of every woman in New Mexico."
The Senator continued, "Everyone deserves to feel safe and secure when they use the restroom; this is not an issue of inclusivity. This is purely a matter of women's safety. Publications show that over half of all New Mexicans have reported being the victim of sexual abuse. It is wrong to subject women to traumatic and potentially dangerous situations for the sake of placating to a fringe minority. Peeing should not be partisan, but a small group of activists have forced this on the women of New Mexico. The State Capitol Building must serve as a role model for the state and adopt a new policy that benefits and protects everyone. In the meantime, Republicans will continue to support and protect ALL New Mexican women."
