The bill amends the New Mexico Victims of Crime Act to expand the definition of "victim" to include individuals directly and proximately harmed by any crime resulting in bodily harm or property damage. It introduces a new definition for "offender" and redefines "formally charged" to include the filing of a criminal complaint, thereby enhancing victims' rights to be notified about an offender's release both before and after conviction. Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement agencies treat victims with fairness and respect, ensuring their dignity and privacy during investigations.

To further support victims, the bill requires the establishment of electronic notification systems by the Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts, the Corrections Department, and county commissioners, which will provide timely updates on court proceedings and available support services. It also creates a "victims of crime assistance fund" to support services such as crime scene cleanup and biological hazard services, contingent upon law enforcement certification. The bill allocates $1 million to the administrative office of the courts, $500,000 to local government divisions, and another $500,000 to the corrections department for these electronic notification systems, while repealing a previous section of the law deemed redundant or outdated. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance communication and support for victims of crime within the criminal justice system in New Mexico.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 31-26-2, 31-26-3, 31-26-4, 31-26-5, 31-26-6, 31-26-7, 31-26-8, 31-26-9, 31-26-10, 31-26-11, 31-26-12, 31-26-14, 31-26-15, 31-26-10.1