The New Mexico legislature has passed a significant bill aimed at reforming behavioral healthcare and public safety measures, now awaiting the Governor's approval. Senator Joseph Cervantes highlighted the importance of this legislation, stating, "This legislation is a great step forward in addressing critical gaps in the criminal justice system and mental health services." The bill proposes involuntary inpatient treatment for individuals deemed not competent but dangerous and offers assisted outpatient treatment programs for those not considered dangerous.
House Bill 8 introduces several public safety reforms. It enhances penalties for high-volume fentanyl trafficking, addressing a growing public health crisis. It also increases penalties for mass shooting threats towards schools or public places and prohibits possession of devices that convert semiautomatic weapons into fully automatic ones. Additionally, it strengthens penalties for repeat vehicle theft offenders and provides law enforcement with tools to enforce DWI laws through blood testing when probable cause exists.
The bill is part of a broader initiative known as the Behavioral Health Reform Package, which includes Senate Bills 1, 2, and 3. Senate Bill 1 establishes a trust fund for behavioral health initiatives to ensure sustainable financial support for mental health and substance abuse treatment. Senate Bill 2 allocates $200 million to expand regional behavioral health services such as crisis response and outpatient care. Senate Bill 3 creates a Behavioral Health Executive Committee to oversee regional resources and identify service gaps.
Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth emphasized the significance of these bills: "The behavioral health bills are the key to the success of the public safety package." He added that incarceration alone cannot resolve addiction issues, highlighting the need for treatment options.
These legislative efforts aim to reduce crime, improve public health, and enhance New Mexico's criminal justice system. Lawmakers stress that while these bills mark progress in the current legislative session, ongoing work is necessary to continue improving public safety and behavioral health services.
