The bill amends the Delinquency Act in New Mexico to expand the definition of "delinquent act" to include unlawful possession of cannabis and alcohol. Specifically, it introduces new legal language that categorizes activities related to alcohol and cannabis, such as attempting to buy, receiving, possessing, or being served alcoholic liquor, as well as similar actions concerning cannabis. The bill clarifies that a child in possession of or using cannabis under the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act is not considered a delinquent child.

Additionally, the bill removes previous language that defined certain alcohol-related offenses as delinquent acts, thereby updating the legal framework to reflect current societal norms regarding cannabis and alcohol use among minors. The amendments aim to provide a more comprehensive approach to juvenile delinquency by addressing these specific substances within the context of the law.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-2-3