Santa Fe, NM – The New Mexico House of Representatives passed legislation Wednesday that cracks down on domestic violence by giving police officers 24 hours to arrest the offender without a warrant. HB 462, sponsored by Rep. Kelly Fajardo, passed on a unanimous 65-0 vote. It now heads to the Senate.

“I’m proud that the House passed this law to help protect victims of domestic violence and abuse,” said Fajardo, of Belen. “I hope that both parties in the Senate can come together and pass this important legislation that affects women and children.”

Under current law, someone who commits domestic violence can flee the scene, and an officer is required to obtain a warrant before arresting the suspect. If the legislation becomes law, police officers will have 24 hours to arrest the offender without having to attain a warrant. The bill will now go to the New Mexico State Senate.

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