SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – Republicans in the state Senate plan to bring back a bill aimed at strengthening New Mexico’s organized crime law. The bill would update the Racketeering Act to cover more crimes like human trafficking, sexual abuse, dog and cockfighting, and escaping from custody. It also defines a criminal gang as three or more people with identifying symbols or identifiable leadership who regularly commit crimes.
Senate Republicans tried to push a similar bill during this year’s 30-day regular session but it died in committee. “I think we should try this bill when we have any kind of session. Again, it’s the tool that the law enforcement community needs. It’s the one that they’ve asked for, and we need to give them all the tools that we can give them to get their job done,” said Senator Craig Brandt, (R-Rio Rancho.)
The special session, which will focus on public safety, will get underway on July 18.
