The bill amends the statutes of limitations for various criminal offenses, specifically focusing on crimes against minors. It introduces a new provision that allows prosecution for crimes against a minor, as defined in Section 30-9-11 NMSA 1978, to commence at any time until the alleged victim reaches the age of thirty-five. This provision excludes violent first-degree felonies and certain specified offenses. Additionally, the bill modifies the existing statute of limitations for offenses against children, stating that the time period for prosecution will not begin until the victim turns eighteen or the violation is reported to law enforcement, whichever comes first.

In terms of deletions, the bill removes the previous provisions regarding the time limitations for certain crimes, specifically the sections labeled H and I, and replaces them with the new language regarding crimes against minors and the conditions under which the statute of limitations applies. The bill also clarifies that for capital felonies, first-degree violent felonies, or second-degree murder, there is no limitation period, allowing prosecution to commence at any time after the crime occurs.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-1-8, 30-1-9.1