Criminal Justice (Corrections)

HB 146 increases penalties for individuals with felony convictions who possess firearms or destructive devices. For a first offense, it raises the penalty to five years in prison (previously a general third-degree felony without a specified term). It also creates a new second-offense penalty of nine years for repeat offenders, applying specifically to those convicted of felonies within the past decade. The bill directly affects people with recent felony convictions who unlawfully possess firearms, including those convicted of certain violent crimes or under protection orders.

SB 43 changes New Mexico's parole process for inmates sentenced to life imprisonment. It requires the parole board to prioritize an inmate's risk level, participation in rehabilitation programs, and readiness to rejoin society when considering release, while also weighing offense details and victim impact. The bill sets a minimum five-year parole period for life sentences (unless reduced for public safety) and mandates a written parole plan and signed conditions of release before an inmate can be freed. Additionally, it updates compensation rules for parole board members and hearing scheduling procedures.