Law Enforcement Retention Bill Passes Committee with Strong Bipartisan Support

Santa Fe, NM-  HB 86, which would help improve public safety across New Mexico by ensuring the state can retain experienced law enforcement officers, passed the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee today with a unanimous 9-0 vote, with all six Democrats and three Republicans voting in favor. 

HB 86 would create the Law Enforcement Retention Fund to help New Mexico retain police officers by offering them bonuses of 5% of their annual salary every five years they remain in law enforcement. This would encourage quality, experienced officers to continue working to improve public safety, by compensating them for their hard work and commitment. 

“Investing in retaining our high-quality law enforcement officers is a smart and cost-effective way we can make our streets and neighborhoods safer right away,” said Representative Meredith Dixon (D-Albuquerque). 

The bill's bipartisan sponsors are Rep. Dixon, Rep. Natalie Figueroa (D-Albuquerque), Rep. Marian Matthews (D-Albuquerque), Rep. Randal Crowder (R-Clovis) and Rep. T. Ryan Lane (R-Aztec).

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.  

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