Javier Martínez, Speaker of the New Mexico House, said that the state is fulfilling its commitment to public safety and behavioral health reforms as the governor prepared to sign a comprehensive package of bills addressing these issues. He made this statement in a livestream on February 27.
"I'm happy to report that we are here to deliver on that promise," said Javier Martinez, according to Facebook. "It is legislation that is meant to take care of our most vulnerable, that is meant to keep our community safe. I'm grateful to the governor for putting this on the radar in such a high-profile way."
According to the livestream, New Mexico has made strides in behavioral health, with suicide rates dropping by 42% among women and 43% in Native American communities, particularly benefiting teenagers. Since 2018, behavioral health visits have risen by 68%, driven by Medicaid policy changes that removed co-pays and increased reimbursement rates. To enhance access to care, the state has also added 926 new behavioral health providers.
A CWS Research poll found that 93% of New Mexico voters support tougher penalties for fentanyl and other drug dealers, with unanimous backing from 18- to 24-year-olds and Latino respondents. Additionally, 94% of voters favor detaining repeat violent offenders without bail, a position widely supported across party lines. Sonntag said the rejection of HB 107, which aimed to impose stricter penalties on drug dealers, contradicts public opinion.
According to Neighbourhood Scout, New Mexico's crime rates are notably higher than national averages. Residents face a 1 in 133 chance of experiencing violent crime such as murder, rape, robbery, or assault and a 1 in 35 chance of property crimes like burglary, theft, or motor vehicle theft. These statistics point to the state's challenges in ensuring public safety.
As per his website, Speaker Martínez is the New Mexico State Representative for District 11 and the 31st Speaker of the NM House. He is known for championing tax credits, early childhood education, and community advocacy. A former public health advocate and community organizer, he holds a law degree from the University of New Mexico and lives in Los Duranes with his family.
