Senator Craig Brandt of Rio Rancho has introduced a proposal to enhance New Mexico's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). The proposed legislation aims to broaden the range of crimes eligible for RICO prosecution, including offenses like sexual exploitation of children, expanded human trafficking, and activities by gangs and cartels.

Senator Brandt has collaborated with various law enforcement agencies and the Governor's Office in an effort to tackle the state's crime issues. He said, "This bill will give our DAs and prosecutors the tools they have been asking for to go after organized crime in the state of New Mexico." He further added, "This will make our state a safer place for our children and our grandchildren. This bill may have New Mexico closed for business to gangs and cartels, but it will ensure that New Mexico stays open for business for those who want to make our state a better place to live."

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address what is described as an out-of-control crime crisis in New Mexico.