New Mexico’s special session on public safety is set to begin on Thursday
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has officially called for a special session to tackle public safety issues in New Mexico. Despite facing resistance from her own party, she was joined at a Wednesday afternoon press conference by officials supporting the session.
Among the attendees was Governor J. Michael Chavarria of the Santa Clara Pueblo, who presented photographs highlighting the challenges his community faces. “Hypodermic needles laying all on our lands that are deposited by these individuals…We find these individuals that are unauthorized camping on our reservation, then you find illegal dumping,” said Chavarria.
A diverse group of mayors, law enforcement officers, tribal governors, and other state officials gathered at the capitol to back the special session. Governor Lujan Grisham urged lawmakers to take action, stating, “Tomorrow at noon, we are asking lawmakers to do right by New Mexico families, to do right by all of our cities and counties, and to create the kind of opportunities for us to get help to the people who need that help without which will be at risk themselves on the streets.”
The session will address revisions to the criminal code, including stricter penalties for felons possessing guns, making it illegal to stand on medians in busy streets, and reforming the judicial system concerning criminal competency and commitment. Many attendees voiced their support for the special session’s objectives.
“Governor, you are right to believe like we do that continued high crime does reputational damage to New Mexico and our quality of life for businesses and residents alike,” said Terri L. Cole from the Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce.
However, the special session has faced criticism from Democratic leaders who argued earlier this week that it would be a waste of time and resources. Governor Lujan Grisham responded, “Don’t let them tell you that they don’t have enough time. They’ve had decades, and in fact, the failure of our legislature to take serious these issues in large part is exactly how we got to where we are today.”
The governor has collaborated with both parties to include additional proposals in the session’s agenda. These proposals aim to secure federal assistance for Ruidoso residents affected by recent fires and to combat organized crime through the Racketeering Act. They also address the growing issue of fentanyl overdoses.
Governor Lujan Grisham’s call to action has brought together various leaders and community members, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive public safety reforms in New Mexico.