Comprehensive House Crime Bill Signed into Law

Santa Fe, NM- Today, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed into law HB 68, a comprehensive bill to address violent crime that passed both the House and the Senate with strong bipartisan support.

HB 68, sponsored by Representatives Meredith Dixon (D-Albuquerque), Pamelya Herndon (D-Albuquerque), and Marian Matthews (D-Albuquerque) contains several key provisions to deter and prevent violent crime including: cracking down on the market for stolen cars by making it a crime to operate a chop shop, eliminating the statute of limitations for second degree murder, and enhancing penalties for felons who possess firearms and for brandishing firearms. 

The bill would also expand sentencing for aggravated fleeing from a law enforcement officer resulting in an injury to someone, and make it a crime to threaten injury, damage, or violence in certain public places.

“This legislation will help our justice system better address and reduce dangerous crime,” said Rep. Dixon. “Enhanced penalties, together with investments in addressing the underlying causes of crime, will help us make our communities safer both now and in the long-term.” 

“Across our state, New Mexicans want safer neighborhoods, and this bill goes a long way toward making all of our communities safer,” said Representative Pamelya Herndon (D-Albuquerque).

“Our constituents demanded we respond to crime in our city and state and we heard them. HB 68 is an important step that will improve the effectiveness of our criminal justice system to deter crime,” said Representative Marian Matthews (D-Albuquerque). 

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