This bill amends several sections of the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Code to increase penalties for certain misdemeanor violations. Specifically, it raises the fines for general misdemeanor violations from a maximum of $300 to a range of $100 to $500, and introduces imprisonment terms of up to 90 days. The penalties for reckless driving are also adjusted, with first-time offenders facing fines between $500 and $750, and second or subsequent offenders facing fines up to $1,000. Additionally, the bill establishes a new penalty structure for careless driving, with fines set between $250 and $750 depending on the number of convictions.

Furthermore, the bill revises the penalty assessment schedule for various offenses, significantly increasing fines for violations such as improper display of registration plates, failure to notify of a change of address, and speeding. For example, the penalty for speeding up to ten miles over the limit is raised from $25 to $100, while the penalty for operating without a permit for excessive size or weight increases from $250 to $325 for a second conviction. The bill aims to enhance road safety by imposing stricter penalties on traffic violations.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 66-8-7, 66-8-113, 66-8-114, 66-8-116