This bill amends the Election Code to establish that knowingly soliciting a non-U.S. citizen to register to vote or to vote in New Mexico is a fourth-degree felony. The bill defines "solicitation" broadly to include any act of requesting or encouraging another person to register or vote, regardless of format. A person found guilty of this offense will face penalties including a fine of up to $5,000, and each act of solicitation is treated as a separate offense. Notably, including a disclaimer that advises the non-citizen against registering or voting does not serve as a legal defense against the violation.

Additionally, the bill empowers the attorney general or district attorneys to initiate criminal proceedings for violations of this act, with the option to seek assistance from state election officials in the investigation and prosecution of such cases. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.