Bill > SB50

This bill comprehensively reforms public safety telecommunications and law enforcement training in New Mexico by making several key changes. The bill adds telecommunicators (emergency dispatchers) to the Law Enforcement Retention Fund, allowing them to receive retention bonuses similar to police officers based on years of service. It expands the New Mexico Law Enforcement Standards and Training Council's responsibilities to include oversight of all police officer and public safety telecommunicator standards, training, and educational requirements. The bill mandates more rigorous, evidence-based training curricula for both police officers and telecommunicators, with a focus on scenario-based learning, adult education principles, and addressing topics like crisis intervention, mental health, de-escalation, and cultural sensitivity. Additionally, the legislation requires the Law Enforcement Academy to seek national accreditation by 2029, develops new continuing education requirements, and creates more detailed definitions for terms like "police officer" and "telecommunicator". The bill also updates the composition of various law enforcement boards, removes some Senate confirmation requirements, and includes appropriations totaling $1 million to support job task analysis, curriculum development, and training modernization for public safety professionals.

Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=50&year=25