The City of Albuquerque announced that Councilors approved two bills, R-23-170 and R-23-171. Both pieces of legislation were introduced by City Councilors Dan Lewis, Brook Bassan, Louie Sanchez, and Renée Grout according to the press release. The bills now go to the Mayor for signature.
R-23-170 emphasizes the need for comprehensive legislative measures to address public safety and enhance behavioral health services at the state level. It calls upon the Governor, State Senate, and State House to prioritize the allocation of resources to combat addiction, improve mental health services, and increase access to addiction treatment across the state.
R-23-171 reaffirms the City Council's support for the constitutional rights of Albuquerque's citizens to possess and carry firearms for various lawful purposes, including security, defense, hunting, and recreation according to the press release.
Councilor Brook Bassan said, "This is a response to the Governor making a public health emergency declaration. If it is so dire and so extreme, that she will call a public health emergency because of the crime in Albuquerque, then there should be a response to that. This is us saying; it’s that bad, we agree with you."
Councilor Dan Lewis added, "This bill talks about what the Governor championed last year. In regard to pre-trial detention, giving judges tools when people commit violent crimes, to be able to keep them in jail while awaiting trial."
Councilor Renée Grout also expressed her opinion, saying, "Last year there were several crime bills that were introduced, and a lot of those bills were very good bills. They should be reconsidered."
Councilor Louie Sanchez urged the Governor to call a special session, saying, "The Governor called a special session for cannabis and the fact that we are in a crisis, a special session really needs to be considered."
The bills will now await the Mayor's signature.
