The New Mexico Business Coalition (NMBC) has released a poll highlighting public concerns over crime, support for stricter penalties, opposition to House Bill 275 on income tax repeal, and worries about border security. This announcement was made through a press release.

According to the NMBC, the poll reveals that New Mexicans across various demographics are deeply concerned about the state's crime situation. There is widespread support for stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for repeat offenders and theft. Despite this sentiment, lawmakers have tabled several bills aimed at addressing crime, including HB 275, which seeks to eliminate the state income tax—a measure supported by 70% of respondents.

The survey also indicates that 90% of participants believe stronger actions are necessary to prevent drugs, gangs, and human traffickers from entering New Mexico via the southern border. However, the Senate recently passed Senate Bill 36, which limits state agencies from complying with federal law enforcement requests concerning illegal immigrants. The poll was conducted between January 31 and February 6, 2025, involving 541 randomly selected respondents from a demographically representative sample of New Mexico voters. It has a margin of error of ±4.213%.

"People are tired of the out-of-control crime in this state and living in fear," said Carla Sonntag, president and CEO of NMBC. "They don’t want any more excuses from legislators; they want solutions." Sonntag added that many legislators appear disconnected from what New Mexicans want and need. She expressed hope that lawmakers would review the poll results and take appropriate action: "There is still plenty of time to address New Mexico’s needs and stop pushing personal agendas that don’t match reality."

The NMBC is an organization advocating for business owners' interests with government officials. It provides voter education on issues and policies while aiming to unite New Mexicans through resources and calls to action.