One bill being discussed during the 2017 legislative session would make attacking first responders a hate crime in New Mexico.
Things like race, gender, sexual orientation are already protected under the state’s hate crime law. State Rep. Nate Gentry, R-Albuquerque, also wants to see tougher punishments for people who commit crimes against first responders. The bill applies to police officers, firefighters and paramedics.
If the bill passes prosecutors would have to prove someone committed the crime out of hate for a first responder.