The bill introduces a new section to Chapter 4, Article 44 of the New Mexico Statutes, which mandates that sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, and guards be reimbursed for expenses incurred while transporting inmates, individuals charged with crimes, or persons in custody of law enforcement agencies. This reimbursement will be provided at a per diem rate as authorized by the Per Diem and Mileage Act, and it will be the responsibility of the counties to cover these expenses.

This legislation aims to ensure that law enforcement personnel are compensated for the costs associated with transporting individuals in their custody, thereby alleviating the financial burden on these officers and promoting efficient law enforcement operations.