The bill amends the Search and Rescue Act to establish standardized protocols for responding to search and rescue (SAR) emergencies in New Mexico. It defines key terms related to SAR operations, including "SAR emergency," and outlines the roles of various agencies and personnel involved in SAR efforts. A new section mandates that the state SAR resource officer, in collaboration with local, state, federal, and tribal emergency responders, develop and disseminate standardized criteria for notifying the state SAR control agency of a SAR emergency. This process includes stakeholder consultation and training for emergency response entities on the new protocols.

Additionally, the bill specifies that local and state emergency response entities must promptly notify the state SAR control agency of potential SAR needs unless otherwise agreed upon in a memorandum of agreement. It also requires the state SAR control agency to inform relevant authorities and land management agencies about the activation of SAR resources and to assist in securing alternate resources if necessary. The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 24-15A-3
CT substitute: 24-15A-3
Final Version: 24-15A-3