HOUSE DEMOCRATS News:

Defines and Lays Out Penalties for Acts of Terror

SANTA FE – Today, bipartisan-supported public safety measure House Bill 269 passed the House of Representatives.

Sponsored by Rep. Dayan Hochman-Vigil (D-Albuquerque), Rep. Natalie Figueroa (D-Albuquerque), Majority Whip Doreen Gallegos (D-Las Cruces), and Rep. Bill Rehm (R-Albuquerque), House Bill 269 defines the crimes of terrorism, possessing a terroristic weapon, making a terroristic threat, and cyberterrorism and lays out the penalties.

House Bill 269 aims to justly penalize those who attempt to or have already caused harm, terror, and mass violence to the public, especially violence against groups or individuals gathered in public spaces like houses of worship or educational institutions.

“House Bill 269 makes meaningful updates to New Mexico’s criminal code so our law enforcement and communities can address modern-day threats from extremist groups and mass shooters,” Hochman-Vigil said. “All New Mexicans will be safer and more secure with the passage of this bill.”

Defining terrorism in New Mexico is critical to protecting our communities, making it easier for law enforcement investigators to track and prosecute extremist groups and potential mass shooters.

House Bill 269 will now head to the Senate for consideration.