NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates HB 758

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Department of Public Safety and Game and Fish Department

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

SB 526 amends the enforcement powers of Game and Fish law enforcement officers. It grants then direct enforcement authority over state statutes regarding negligent use of a deadly weapon, criminal damage to property, evading or obstructing an officer and camping next to a manmade waterhole.

Significant Issues

Increasing the authority of Conservation Officers may help meet public expectations in providing a safe and lawful environment. The extra effort and number of circumstances that this authority would be exercised would be limited and the effect on the primary duties of Conservation Officers would be negligible. The criminal sections covered in SB 526 are ones that the public would reasonably anticipate a Game and Fish officer to enforce.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

According to the Department of Public Safety, a positive fiscal impact on their department could result. For example, if a Game and Fish officer encounters a violation while on normal duty, the Game and Fish officer may have to depend on a New Mexico State Police officer to come and enforce the specific statutory sections. With the addition of this language, New Mexico State Police officers will be available for back up and assistance, but would not be needed for primary enforcement.

POSSIBLE QUESTION

Is additional training of Conservation Officers required to fulfill this legislation?

PD/njw:prr