Bill > SB214

This bill increases the fines and penalties for various traffic violations in New Mexico. Specifically, it raises the maximum fine for general misdemeanor violations of the Motor Vehicle Code from $300 to $500, and sets a minimum fine of $100. For reckless driving, the bill adjusts the fines and imprisonment terms for first and subsequent convictions, and also modifies the penalties for careless driving, introducing a tiered fine system based on whether it's a first or subsequent offense. Furthermore, the bill significantly increases the "penalty assessment" amounts for a wide range of "penalty assessment misdemeanors," which are minor traffic offenses like speeding, improper lane changes, and equipment violations, as well as violations under the Boat Act. These penalty assessments are essentially fixed fines that can often be paid without appearing in court. For example, the penalty assessment for speeding 11-15 mph over the limit increases from $30 to $105, and for texting while driving, the first violation penalty assessment increases from $25 to $100. The bill also introduces higher penalty assessments for repeat offenders of certain overweight or oversized load violations.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=214&year=26