The bill amends Section 31-20-3 of the New Mexico Statutes to allow courts to defer or suspend up to two-thirds of the basic sentence for defendants convicted of a second or third degree felony offense, provided they have a prior felony conviction. This change aims to ensure that the ends of justice and the best interests of both the public and the defendant are served. The court retains the discretion to alter the basic sentence based on mitigating or aggravating circumstances as outlined by law.

Additionally, the bill makes conforming amendments to the existing legal language regarding the deferral or suspension of sentences. It clarifies the conditions under which a court may defer the imposition of a sentence or suspend its execution, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the interests of both the public and the individual involved in the case.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 31-20-3