The Public Safety Bold Issue Group (BIG) met last week for an important update on public safety initiatives, and the discussion featured Dan Schlegel, chief of staff for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, and Kyle Hartsock, former APD commander of the Homicide Unit.
Both speakers outlined state-level legislative priorities and local law enforcement challenges facing our community.
Led by Public Safety BIG Chair and Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico President Janice Torrez, with Andres Garcia, Capra Bank New Mexico president, serving as vice chair, the group will work aggressively to advocate for effective legislative strategies that reduce crime and benefit our business community and residents.
Special Session Potential and Legislative Priorities
Schlegel briefed members on key issues that potentially might be addressed during the special legislative session expected in September or October. Legislators could consider improving definitions around “harm to self and others” provisions, which could strengthen tools for addressing mental health crises.
The session could also address health care infrastructure needs, including efforts to create health care compacts and secure additional funding for rural health care systems.
Schlegel emphasized the administration’s commitment to strengthening Medicaid programs through targeted appropriations to both the New Mexico Healthcare Authority and the Medicaid Trust Fund. Additionally, lawmakers might consider increased appropriations for the Rural Health Care Fund, recognizing the critical need to support hospitals serving our state’s rural communities.
Local Law Enforcement Challenges
Hartsock provided a ground-level perspective on public safety challenges affecting local businesses and communities. He highlighted ongoing concerns along Southeast Central Avenue, which he described as a hub for criminal activity, drawing offenders from across the city.
Hartsock addressed several interconnected issues impacting business operations and community safety, including drug possession enforcement challenges and the broader implications of repeat offenders and the importance of keeping felons in custody awaiting trial. He summarized the persistent challenge of gun violence, outlining how these issues create ripple effects that impact business confidence and economic development.
Public Safety BIG Chair’s Perspective
Torrez said the presentations underscore the Chamber’s commitment to staying engaged on public safety issues that directly affect our members’ ability to operate successfully and attract customers, employees and investment to our region.
On a personal note, Torrez shared her recent experience with a home invasion. At 3 a.m., alone in her home, she was forced to hide in her backyard after criminals broke in. She called police and the offenders were arrested, but they later were released back onto the streets.
Torrez told the story to emphasize that crime can happen to anyone and to highlight how serious the problem has become in our community.
She said she is honored to serve as the Chamber’s Public Safety BIG chair and remains committed to working toward meaningful solutions.
Looking Ahead
The meeting represented an opportunity for members to become more informed and even more committed to finding solutions that address our public safety challenges. Peter Lorenz, Chamber chairman of the board, summarized it this way: “We will double down on advocacy efforts, maintain sharp focus, and work diligently to achieve meaningful results for our community.”
