Terri Cole, President and CEO of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (GACC), has called for stronger penalties for swatting, firearm trafficking, and organized crime. She said that these measures are necessary to protect communities and prevent violence. This statement was made in a press release on January 29.
"I want to register our strong support for SB 18," said Cole, President & CEO. "Nothing is more terrifying to a student than to be threatened with violence, especially our youngest and most vulnerable. For those that commit such crimes, a slap-on-the-wrist misdemeanor is not nearly enough of a consequence for perpetrating violence. SB 18 would bring a meaningful consequence by making swatting a felony. It's what we should do for our children."
According to Cole's press release, a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing discussed three crime bills aiming to increase penalties for these offenses. Senate Bill 18 would classify swatting as a felony, SB 32 would impose stricter penalties for possessing stolen firearms, and SB 70 would expand the state’s Racketeering Act. Cole argued that these legislative measures are essential to deter criminals and safeguard New Mexico communities, especially students who are vulnerable to violent threats.
KNAX reports that swatting incidents cost U.S. taxpayers an estimated $500 million annually due to emergency response costs, school closures, and lost instructional time. Law enforcement and emergency personnel are often deployed to false threats, diverting resources from other incidents. Schools experiencing swatting may undergo lockdowns or evacuations, leading to operational disruptions and additional security expenses. The financial burden also includes follow-up investigations and potential legal proceedings related to false reports.
Terri L. Cole has served as President and CEO of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce since 1983, making her the longest-serving chamber CEO at a single chamber in the United States. She has been with the chamber since 1978 and oversees policy implementation at national, state, and local levels according to her LinkedIn profile.
