Bill > HB572

This bill creates a new law making it a fourth-degree felony for any person to knowingly solicit a non-U.S. citizen to register to vote or vote in New Mexico. The term "solicitation" is broadly defined as any act of requesting, encouraging, inducing, or attempting to persuade someone to register or vote, whether verbal, written, or electronic. A person found guilty of such solicitation would face criminal charges, potentially resulting in a sentence under New Mexico's existing criminal sentencing guidelines and a fine of up to $5,000. Importantly, the bill specifies that including a disclaimer advising the non-citizen not to register or vote is not a legal defense against the charge. Each individual act of solicitation can be considered a separate offense. The bill also allows the state attorney general or district attorneys to initiate criminal proceedings for violations, with the ability to request assistance from the secretary of state or other election officials in investigating and prosecuting such cases. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing time for implementation and public awareness.

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https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=572&year=25