New Mexico House Republicans announced that House Democrats voted against a Republican-backed crime package introduced on the House floor. The announcement was made in a press release on February 15, 2025.
According to the press release, the Republican-backed crime package proposed stronger penalties for fentanyl trafficking and distribution, changes to the Juvenile Delinquency Act, accountability for felons in possession of firearms, and measures to ease DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) testing. It also aimed to increase penalties for auto theft and amend the criminal competency code. An amendment by Representative Andrea Reeb to include changes to the Juvenile Delinquency Act in the House Democrats' crime package was also rejected by House Democrats.
"This was a commonsense package that would have provided New Mexicans across the state safety and security. The items in this package were backed by victims, law enforcement, prosecutors, and everyday New Mexicans. It's unfortunate the House Democrats have ignored the cries of people across the state. My colleagues and I will continue to listen and fight for New Mexicans," said Reeb.
Representative Nicole Chavez said that "to say the changes to the Juvenile Delinquency Act are unvetted and rushed is a slap in the face." She emphasized her decade-long advocacy for legislative action on juvenile crime, highlighting collaboration with District Attorney Sam Bregman and stakeholders to ensure comprehensiveness. Chavez added that "New Mexicans, prosecutors, law enforcement, and even the Governor have asked us to get this done. It's time to stop making excuses and take action."
The New Mexico House Republicans focus on reducing government size, promoting individual responsibility, and protecting personal freedoms. They aim to preserve Second Amendment rights, address economic and infrastructure issues, and empower local authorities. Their policies include enhancing penalties for firearm-related crimes while opposing gun ownership restrictions for law-abiding citizens.
