Senator Craig Brandt has reintroduced a bill to escalate the penalties for shooting threats, classifying them as felonies. The bill also targets the growing issue of "swatting" by introducing new criminal charges and penalties. Brandt made the statement in a press release on January 15.
"I am proud to bring back this bill. There is no reason why we should treat a shooting threat as any less serious than a bomb threat," said Brandt. "This commonsense proposal is key to ensuring we improve public safety, especially for our children in school, where threats of violence must be taken seriously and dealt with swiftly."
In the press release, Senator Craig Brandt (R-Rio Rancho) announced he has pre-filed a bill that would elevate issuing a shooting threat to a felony. The bill also addresses the growing issue of "swatting," making it a criminal offense with new penalties for those who make false reports that lead to dangerous police responses. Currently, a shooting threat is classified as a misdemeanor, and "swatting" is not an offense at all in New Mexico.
According to Las Cruces Sun News, the New Mexico Legislature's 60-day regular session begins on January 21, 2025, marking the start of discussions on key issues such as education reform, healthcare, and public safety. Governor Lujan Grisham has proposed a $10.9 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, focusing on early childhood education, clean energy, and affordable housing. The session will also address legislative priorities like reckless driving penalties, paid family leave, and funding for affordable housing projects.
Reported by Fortinet, swatting is described as a dangerous prank where individuals falsely report serious crimes to emergency services, prompting a SWAT team response. This often happens when attackers obtain their victim’s personal information through methods like location services on devices. Tragically, swatting has led to several deaths of innocent individuals targeted by these hoaxes.
According to his website, Brandt has served in the New Mexico State Senate since 2012 after his tenure as Vice President of the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education. He has sponsored 16 pieces of legislation that became law, focusing on education reform, constitutional rights, and DUI reform. As Senate Minority Whip since 2020, Brandt continues to advocate for limited government and conservative values.
