Governor Signs Special Session Proclamation with Public Safety the Focus

SANTA FE – Today, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham readout a proclamation convening a special session of the New Mexico State Legislature on July 18, 2024, to address critical public safety concerns affecting the state.  A packed room of police, fire, medical, lawmakers, and victims were in the room showing the support for the special session.

The governor’s call to action comes in the wake of ongoing crime and other public safety challenges that underscore the urgent need for legislative reform. 

“Just this week, a violent felon, previously convicted of shooting a Portales police officer, struck again. This time, tragically, the victim didn’t escape with their life,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “This heartbreaking case highlights the necessity of immediate legislative action to help prevent such tragedies. I am open to compromise, but I need lawmakers to come to the table and work with me on behalf of New Mexicans. Together, we can make our state safer for all.” 

Governor Lujan Grisham outlined several pressing issues necessitating legislative intervention: 

• Criminal Competency: Numerous criminal defendants are released without receiving essential mental health services due to outdated competency standards. 
• Mental Health Treatment Standards: Current definitions of “danger to self” and “danger to others” are inadequate, preventing individuals with severe mental illness from receiving necessary care. 
• Crime Reporting: Inconsistent crime and ballistic reporting by local law enforcement agencies hampers effective criminal investigations. 
• Pedestrian Safety: New Mexico leads the nation in pedestrian fatalities, with many accidents involving individuals on medians. 
• Gun Violence: The state faces high rates of gun violence, often perpetrated by convicted felons. 
• Organized Crime: The rise and complexity of organized crime necessitates updates to the Racketeering Act. 
• Drug Overdoses: Hundreds of New Mexicans die from drug overdoses every year, many of which are the result of the widespread availability of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid up to fifty times stronger than heroin. 
• Recent Fires: The South Fork and Salt fires have devastated communities, requiring state intervention and support. Communities affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fires continue to need assistance. 

“Gun violence perpetrated by convicted felons is a pressing issue in New Mexico,” said Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. “By increasing penalties for felons caught with firearms, we can reduce repeat offenses and enhance public safety.”  

“The equation to solve the tragic stories of homelessness and addiction that plague NM city streets is complex and requires multiple angles of approach,” said Miguel Tittmann, IAFF Local 244 President. “We support Governor Lujan-Grisham and her agenda for this upcoming special session to bring solutions to this crisis.” 

“This is certainly a step in the right direction when it comes to protecting the citizens of this state, but it’s merely a step, and we have a long way to go,” said Shaun Willowby, President, Albuquerque Police Officers Association. “In order for this legislation to be effective it requires a state that is committed to providing services and support for those facing mental health and substance abuse issues and that is something we have been lacking. We hope this will be a start towards funding treatment and holding individuals accountable for their crimes against our communities.” 

“We support these efforts to make our communities safer,” Michael Richards, MD, MPA, Senior Vice President for Clinical Affairs for University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center. “Safer communities are healthier communities.” 

“As a former state Senator, I know that special sessions can be tough, and not all the details ready in advance, but least there is chance the work can be done; that’s why I have always supported any special session that helps us face our toughest challenges head on,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “I trust that our state leaders and advocates can deliver helpful legislation for Albuquerque and all of New Mexico.” 

“Our officers are dedicated to serving and protecting our city, yet they face increasing risks and challenges in the field,” said APD Chief of Police Harold Medina. “Support from our partners is essential to providing them with the necessary tools, training, and technology to effectively combat crime and safeguard our community.” 

“Public safety extends beyond policing; it encompasses the readiness and resilience of our fire and emergency services,” said AFR Chief Emily Jaramillo. “Addressing the mental health needs of individuals can reduce recidivism, promote rehabilitation, and foster a safer environment for everyone, while also lessening the burden on EMTs and hospitals.” 

“As a third branch of public safety, ACS is dedicated to a comprehensive safety strategy that integrates behavioral and mental health into our model,” said Albuquerque Community Safety Director Jodie Esquibel. “We know it is vital to offer services and to our most vulnerable populations to promote public health and wellness.” 

The Special Session Proclamation is currently being processed with the Secretary of State’s office. The Proclamation language is below.