A coalition of advocates and community organizations held a press conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to promote legislation aimed at enhancing public safety through expanded access to behavioral health services, housing, and essential resources. The group called on legislators to reject policies they consider harmful and instead support evidence-based approaches that strengthen communities across the state.
The coalition comprises various organizations including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico, Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless, Bold Futures NM, Center for Civic Policy, Enlace Comunitario, Equality New Mexico (EQNM), New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness, New Mexico Eviction Prevention & Diversion, New Mexico Native Vote, Organizers in the Land of Enchantment (OLÉ), and the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico.
Their initiative follows Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s recent State of the State address where she proposed more punitive measures such as longer sentences and involuntary commitment.
Daniel Williams from ACLU of New Mexico emphasized the need for "bold policies with solutions that have been proven to prevent crime," rather than relying on what he described as "failed policies."
Adam Griego from ACLU-NM's Justice Advisory and Accountability Board highlighted systemic barriers affecting formerly incarcerated individuals. He stated: "True change demands we work united across party lines...empower all to thrive through restorative justice rather than perpetual punishment."
Monet Silva from the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness pointed out an increase in homelessness revealed by the 2024 PIT Count. She advocated for addressing root causes and creating affordable housing through a unified approach involving multiple stakeholders.
Marshall Martinez from EQNM criticized proposals that lengthen sentences and coerce treatment. He urged investment in housing, healthcare, education, and jobs instead.
Lan Sena from the Center for Civic Policy called for investments into education, housing, and healthcare as a commonsense approach proven more effective at preventing crime than increasing penalties.
Rachel Biggs from Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless stressed that affordable housing paired with supportive services is key to ensuring safety and stability in communities. "Our communities thrive when everyone is housed," she concluded.
