The recent human trafficking cases in Albuquerque are being handled by federal law enforcement due to New Mexico’s outdated racketeering law, according to one state legislator.
Sen. Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho, pre-filed a bill Tuesday aimed at expanding New Mexico’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, or RICO.
The bill seeks to expand the scope of crimes that fall under RICO prosecution including child sexual exploitation, dog fighting and cockfighting, expanded human trafficking, gang activity and cartel activity.
“This bill will give our DAs and prosecutors the tools they have been asking for to go after organized crime in the state of New Mexico.” Brandt said in a press release, “This will make our state a safer place for our children and our grandchildren. This bill may have New Mexico closed for business to gangs and cartels, but it will ensure that New Mexico stays open for business for those who want to make our state a better place to live.”
The bill is also targeting gangs and gang leaders recruiting young people into their organizations.
The bill also aims to reduce crime overall, Brandt told NM Political Report.
Brandt attempted a similar bill in 2024 that died after being approved in the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has supported RICO updates in the past and intends to support it again this legislative session, Governor’s Office spokeswoman Jodi McGinnis-Porter told NM Political Report.