New Mexico Heart at the Capitol 2026

A highly engaged group of advocates that included three New Mexico Board Members and four students and staff from Health Leadership High School in Albuquerque came together in Santa Fe for the 2026 New Mexico Heart at the Capitol Day on Feb. 15.

The advocates dedicated their day to raising voices for healthier lives and stronger communities. Throughout the day, advocates held eight meetings with lawmakers. Additionally, the students met with Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, who was instrumental in placing HB 256 on the floor calendar before the session ended. The bill requires schools have AEDs at athletic events.

During meetings with legislators, advocates shared why heart health matters and how smart policies can make a real difference. The conversations focused on cardiac emergency response plans (CERPs) at school athletic events and CERPs funding.

New Mexico Heart at the Capitol proved what’s possible when we unite to change the future of health: policies that protect hearts, prevent disease, and build healthier communities for generations to come.

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Your voice matters — act now! Join American Heart Association Heart Powered and help shape policies that save lives. Visit https://heartpowered.org or text HEART to 46839 today to make an immediate impact.