Bill > SB364

This bill updates the qualifications for law enforcement officers in New Mexico by modifying three existing statutes to explicitly include individuals who have been authorized to work by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as eligible for law enforcement positions. Specifically, the bill changes requirements for appointing peace officers, state police members, and police officer certification to allow non-U.S. citizens who have work authorization to serve in law enforcement roles. The modifications apply to various law enforcement positions, including county sheriffs, city police officers, and state police, and maintain existing standards such as age requirements (typically 21 years old), good moral character, and passing physical and psychological examinations. The bill also preserves existing provisions about educational requirements, such as college credit or military/law enforcement service, and maintains restrictions on hiring individuals with certain criminal histories. The changes effectively broaden the pool of potential law enforcement candidates by recognizing that individuals with valid work authorization can now be considered for these critical public safety positions, while still maintaining rigorous qualification standards to ensure the competence and integrity of law enforcement personnel.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=364&year=25