Local law enforcement officials are sounding off about what some call a âterribleâ bill circulating its way through the state Legislature.
If signed into law, Senate Bill 227, introduced by Sen. Linda Lopez (D-Bernalillo), would establish a standard use-of-force policy for law enforcement agencies across New Mexico.
SB 227 would prohibit police officers and deputies from using physical force until theyâve exhausted de-escalation tactics and techniques and, even then, force must be proportionate to the situation.
It also forbids law enforcement from using deadly force against someone who is a threat only to themselves, restricts the ability to shoot at moving vehicles and bans the use of chokeholds, tear gas, rubber bullets and âshall not direct a dog to bite a person.â