Thank Your Representatives for a Yes Vote Take this time to thank Representatives for voting to pass domestic partnership Sample Letter for Campaign Subject: Thank You for your vote on HB9 Dear [ Decision Maker ] , I am writing to thank you for your YES vote on HB9.Your commitment to fairness and justice sent a strong statement that all families deserve protection under the law. Sincerely,

Campaign Launched: January 25, 2008

Background Information

Right now, unmarried couples have no legal recognition for their relationships under NM law.  This creates many hardships for gay, lesbian, and heterosexual unmarried couples and families.  No matter how much money unmarried couples spend on legal agreements like wills and powers of attorney to protect each other and their children, they cannot duplicate many of the rights and protections that NM offers to couples who can marry.  HB 9 is not marriage, but it goes a long way to protect children and families from unnecessary hardship.

HB 9 creates a system of Domestic Partnerships for any two unmarried adults, gay or not gay.  This could include senior citizens or disabled people who cannot get married to each other because one or the other would lose their social security or other benefits.

Domestic Partnership will confer all of the NM state (no federal) rights, benefits, protections, responsibilities and obligations of New Mexico civil marriage in the areas of...

•   Death & Inheritance
•   Insurance benefits
•   Health care decision-making
•   Family Relationship
•   Dissolution of a Domestic Partnership

*It's important to remember that this issue is often times emotionally charged.  When talking with legislators, remember to maintain a positive attitude.  Becoming combative with legislators will not make a positive impact on the vote.  We need to remain respectful, even when a legislator has views we do not agree with.  Together we can make a New Mexico a place where all families are protected.