Elaine Cortez, a State Representative for New Mexico's District 62, has called for life sentences for fentanyl traffickers due to the drug's deadly impact on residents of New Mexico. Cortez made this statement during an interview with the New Mexico Suncast on March 6.
"It is politically unpopular in New Mexico to hold criminals accountable," said Cortez, New Mexico State Representative, according to YouTube. "Let's protect our law enforcement, let's hold criminals accountable."
In the podcast, Cortez explained that fentanyl trafficking leads to overdoses and loss of life in New Mexico. She introduced a bill advocating for life sentences for fentanyl traffickers, equating their actions to taking lives. However, the bill has not progressed as the committee chair believes it lacks sufficient votes.
According to the Los Alamos Daily Post, Cortez introduced House Bill 274 aiming to impose life sentences on fentanyl traffickers. She argued that such measures would serve as a strong deterrent amid New Mexico’s overdose crisis. The bill was tabled by the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee in a 4-2 party-line vote because it "lacked flexibility" for judges and did not differentiate between low-level and high-level offenders. Despite opposition, Cortez maintained that stronger penalties are necessary to demonstrate New Mexico's commitment to combating the fentanyl epidemic.
The New Mexico Department of Health reported that in 2023, fentanyl was linked to 65% of overdose deaths in the state, while methamphetamine was involved in 51% of cases. Most fatalities (84%) occurred among individuals aged 25 to 64, with those aged 35 to 44 accounting for 26% of the deaths.
Cortez is described on her website as a lifelong resident of New Mexico, business owner, and professor who has spent 37 years in Hobbs building her family and career. She holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and teaches at her alma maters, the University of the Southwest and Eastern New Mexico University.
