Bill > SB396

This bill amends the existing laws on arson and negligent arson in New Mexico. The key provisions are: 1. It adds "wildland" as a new category of property that can be the target of arson or negligent arson, defining "wildland" as managed or unmanaged forests, land in the wildland-urban interface, riparian areas, pasture or range land, recreation land, or any other land at risk of wildfire. 2. It creates the new crime of "aggravated arson" which includes arson or negligent arson committed by a person convicted of arson, negligent arson, or aggravated arson within the last ten years, or the use of a device designed to accelerate or delay the fire's ignition. 3. It increases the penalties for arson and negligent arson based on the amount of damage caused, ranging from a petty misdemeanor for damage under $250 to a second-degree felony for damage over $20,000. The overall goal of the bill is to strengthen the legal tools available to combat the growing problem of wildfires, which can cause significant damage to both property and the environment.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/lcs/legislation.aspx?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=396&year=21