New Mexico State Senator Ant Thornton has voiced his opinion on the recent passage of House Bill 8, which introduces stricter penalties for offenses such as fentanyl possession and auto theft. Thornton, representing District 19, expressed that while the bill is a positive step, it falls short in ensuring public safety. "We feel this legislation does not go far enough to ensure public safety," he said on X on February 20.
"House Bill 8, was discussed for three hours in Senate Judiciary Committee last night and was passed," said Thornton. "This was the “crime package” bill proposed by the Democrats which incorporated some provisions from Republican lawmakers. The majority of the bill focused on strengthening behavioral health competency standards for defendants. The bill also included stricter penalties for fentanyl possession, auto theft, and possession of devices that convert a semiautomatic weapon to an illegal automatic weapon."
Thornton's post included a link from the New Mexico Senate Republicans' account, featuring a statement in which he elaborated on his concerns about House Bill 8. He indicated that Republicans plan to submit additional bills aimed at strengthening the crime package and enhancing public safety measures.
Screenshot of State Senator Ant Thornton's Feb. 20 post on X.
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House Bill 8 was introduced by Representatives Christine Chandler, Joy Garratt, Cynthia Borrego, Kathleen Cates, and Charlotte Little. The bill addresses issues related to individuals found not competent to stand trial. It outlines criteria for involuntary commitment or assisted outpatient treatment and expands the list of crimes for which an individual may be criminally committed. Additionally, it allows courts to advise district attorneys to initiate proceedings for involuntary commitment or assisted outpatient treatment after dismissing a criminal case.
According to the text of House Bill 8, competency evaluation reports should include assessments by qualified professionals regarding a defendant's ability to stand trial and participate in their defense. For those deemed not competent, the report should evaluate whether they meet criteria for involuntary commitment and assess their potential threat level and need for treatment.
Anthony "Ant" Thornton was elected in 2024 to represent Senate District 19, succeeding Dr. Gregg Schmedes. An aerospace engineer from Bernalillo County, Thornton's campaign emphasized technological innovation and economic diversification. His contributions to the aerospace industry and community involvement have been recognized.
