Bill > HJM15

This Joint Memorial, titled "Study pre-booking diversion program," calls for the New Mexico legislative council to ask an appropriate interim legislative committee to investigate the possibility of creating a statewide program called "law enforcement assisted diversion" (LEAD). This program aims to divert individuals arrested for low-level, nonviolent drug and alcohol offenses into treatment instead of through the costly criminal justice system, which is seen as ineffective in addressing addiction and public safety concerns. The memorial highlights that New Mexico has a high rate of drug-induced deaths and that property crimes are often linked to serious drug addiction. It points out the significant cost difference between incarcerating an individual and providing substance abuse treatment, and notes that Santa Fe has already implemented a successful LEAD program. The legislative committee is tasked with preparing a report with findings and recommendations by November 1, 2014, and copies of the memorial will be sent to various state and local officials.