Press Releases

Direct all press inquiries to: ACLU of New Mexico Communications Team E-Mail: [email protected]

Individuals in Long-Term Solitary Confinement in New Mexico Challenge Inhumane and Unconstitutional Conditions 

Three individuals currently held in the Penitentiary of New Mexico, filed a class action lawsuit today seeking to end New Mexico’s practice of long-term solitary confinement in the state’s Predatory Behavior Management Program.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

Governor Vetoes Bipartisan Parole Reform Bill Despite Unanimous Legislative Support

SANTA FE, NM – Today, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham vetoed Senate Bill 17, the New Mexico Parole Board Modernization Act, despite the bipartisan, common-sense legislation receiving unanimous approval from both chambers of the legislature.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

New Mexico Parole Board Modernization Act (SB 17) Awaits Governor’s Signature

Today, the New Mexico Senate concurred on the New Mexico Parole Board Modernization Act (SB 17), which the House of Representatives passed on Monday evening following unanimous approval in the Senate.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

Public Safety Coalition Urges House Judiciary Committee to Oppose House Bill 8 and Focus on Real Solutions

A coalition of community organizations have joined forces to advance community-centered public safety policies in New Mexico during the 2025 legislative session were set to urge the House Judiciary Committee today to focus on real solutions to crime

End Mass Incarceration Day: New Mexicans Rally for Common Sense Solutions Over Harsh Penalties

A diverse coalition of formerly incarcerated New Mexicans, family members of those currently incarcerated, and criminal justice reform advocates will hold a rally at the Roundhouse on February 10 to urge lawmakers to prioritize treatment over punishment and invest in community-based solutions.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

A Real Path to Public Safety Is Possible This Year, Advocates Say

A coalition of advocates, community organizations, and directly impacted people held a press conference to discuss legislation aimed at improving public safety by expanding access to behavioral health services, housing, and other essential resources.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

Lawmakers Right to Pass Bill Funding Wildfire and Flooding Relief and then Adjourn, Say Advocacy Organizations

Both chambers of the New Mexico Legislature adjourned today, after passing a bill to fund the special session, which also included appropriations to help communities recover from wildfires and flooding in Ruidoso and Mescalero Apache Tribal lands.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform

Governor Lujan Grisham Reckless in Moving Forward with Unsupported Policy Proposals, Say Advocacy Organizations

Bold Futures, Equality New Mexico, the ACLU of New Mexico, and the New Mexico Coalition to End Homelessness condemned the governor's remarks scapegoating and perpetuating harmful narratives about New Mexicans who are experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and addiction.
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform