MOTOR VEHICLE CODE "PERSONAL INFO"
SB 111 amends the Motor Vehicle Code’s definition of “personal information.” The bill expands the list of data elements that are treated as personal information to include an individual’s photograph, Social Security number, driver identification number, name, address other than zip code, telephone number, medical or disability information, sex, gender identity, immigration status, and national origin. At the same time, it preserves the existing exclusion for information about vehicles, vehicle ownership, vehicular accidents, driving violations, and driver status.
The practical effect is to broaden privacy protections in motor vehicle records and related state-held information by clarifying what may not be disclosed or treated as non-sensitive data under the Motor Vehicle Code. It affects the statutory definition used by agencies and others handling motor vehicle records, especially in contexts involving disclosure, access, and privacy safeguards for driver and vehicle-related information.
By revising Section 66-1-4.14 NMSA 1978, the bill changes the operative definition of “personal information” in the Motor Vehicle Code, which can affect how state agencies classify, protect, and release motor vehicle records. The amendment adds several categories of sensitive personal data, including medical or disability information and immigration status, while leaving vehicle-related information outside the definition. This likely strengthens privacy protections for individuals whose information is contained in motor vehicle records and may require agencies to adjust record-handling practices accordingly.
The bill appears to have had generally favorable support, as reflected by passage in both chambers and enactment by the governor. The Senate passed it 26-15 and the House passed it 36-24, indicating clear majority support but not unanimity. The voting margins suggest the measure was supported overall, though with some opposition.
The main point of contention appears to have been the scope of the expanded privacy definition, particularly the inclusion of sensitive categories such as sex, gender identity, immigration status, and national origin. Opponents may have viewed the changes as too broad or unnecessary, while supporters likely saw them as important privacy protections for motor vehicle record holders. The recorded votes show meaningful minority opposition in both chambers, but no committee debate transcript is available to identify specific arguments or sponsors.