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Bill > HB572


NM HB572

Non-citizen Voter Registration Restrictions


summary

Introduced
02/20/2025
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
03/22/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

AN ACT RELATING TO ELECTIONS; MAKING THE ACT OF A PERSON KNOWINGLY SOLICITING ANOTHER PERSON WHO IS NOT A UNITED STATES CITIZEN TO REGISTER TO VOTE OR TO VOTE IN THIS STATE A FOURTH DEGREE FELONY; PROVIDING THAT INCLUDING WITH A SOLICITATION A DISCLAIMER THAT A NON-CITIZEN SHOULD NOT REGISTER TO VOTE OR SHOULD NOT VOTE IN THIS STATE IS NOT A DEFENSE TO THE VIOLATION; PROVIDING FOR A FINE.

AI Summary

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.

Committee Categories

Business and Industry

Sponsors (22)

Last Action

Sent to HCPAC - Referrals: HCPAC/HJC (on 02/20/2025)

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