New Mexico

For Media Inquiries:
John Norton, 202-999-4268
jnorton@famm.org

FAMM supports New Mexico Second Chances bill for juveniles 

SANTA FE – New Mexico is on the verge of ending life without the possibility of parole (LWOP) as a sentencing option for people who committed their crimes as children. SB 64 passed the state Senate this week and will, if signed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, give those who committed crimes as children an opportunity to earn release on parole after serving 15, 20, or 25 years in prison.

“New Mexico isn’t just the Land of Enchantment. It’s the Land of Second Chances,” said FAMM Vice President of Policy Molly Gill. “We applaud the State Senate and House for passing SB 64 and urge Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to sign it into law. The days of New Mexico locking up young people and throwing away the key need to end. New Mexicans can change, and this law will create the opportunity for a second chance when they do.”

Gill provided testimony in support of the bill last month. It enjoyed strong bipartisan support in the legislature after modifications were made to the bill this year. If SB 64 becomes law New Mexico would join the growing number of states who have ended LWOP for juveniles and follow U.S. Supreme Court limitations on this harsh sentencing practice. SB 64 has been championed for several years by a number of national and state groups, including the ACLU of New Mexico, the New Mexico Coalition for the Fair Sentencing of Youth, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth.

For more than three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM has led the fight to reform extreme mandatory sentencing laws and to promote rehabilitation and dignity for all people in prison, 94 percent of whom will return to our neighborhoods one day.

###

FAMM is a national nonpartisan advocacy organization that promotes fair and effective criminal justice policies that safely reduce incarceration, save taxpayer dollars, and keep families together. Founded in 1991, FAMM has secured bold sentencing and prison reform across the country while elevating the voices of directly impacted individuals and families.

FAMM.org | www.facebook.com/FAMMFoundation | @FAMMFoundation

1100 H Street NW, Suite 1000, Washington, D.C. 20005 | 202-822-6700