New Mexico Senate Democrats have announced the passing of former Senator Bill B. O'Neill, acknowledging his contributions to juvenile justice reform and his legacy as a writer and legislator. The announcement was made in a press release on March 31, 2025.
According to the New Mexico State Senate Democratic Caucus, they are offering "heartfelt condolences" to O'Neill's family, friends, former constituents, and all who "admired his work and dedication to the people of New Mexico." O’Neill served in the New Mexico State Senate from 2013 to 2024, representing Albuquerque’s North Valley (Senate District 13). Before his tenure in the Senate, he served in the House of Representatives from 2009 to 2013, representing House District 15.
The Caucus said that "he championed many legislative reforms in New Mexico regarding juvenile justice, including prohibiting life sentences for juveniles, and probation and parole measures. He helped establish Dismas House, a transitional living program in Albuquerque for men on probation or parole. His legacy will be remembered through the countless lives he touched and the policies he advocated through his dedicated service in the legislature." They further noted that "equally important to his legacy are his writings of poetry, novels, and plays. His willingness to share the essence of serving in the legislature through his gift with words was always appreciated and will be greatly missed by his Senate colleagues."
O'Neill is recognized for his work on juvenile justice reform and advocacy for transitional living programs. Throughout his legislative career, he held several committee assignments, including Vice Chair of the Indian, Rural & Cultural Affairs Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee. According to Ballotpedia, O'Neill passed away on March 31, 2025.
The leadership of the New Mexico Senate Democrats includes Wirth as Majority Floor Leader for District 25 (Santa Fe), Mimi Stewart as Senate President Pro Tem for District 17 (Bernalillo), Michael Padilla as Majority Whip for District 14 (Bernalillo), and Leo Jaramillo as Majority Caucus Chair for District 5 (Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, Sandoval, and Santa Fe).
