BORDER SECURITY DIVISION IN DPS

HB 376 creates a Border Security Division within New Mexico's Department of Public Safety (DPS) to prevent illegal entry of people, contraband, and firearms, enforce immigration laws, operate checkpoints, and establish satellite offices in Santa Teresa and Columbus. It also grants the governor authority to develop interstate agreements with other states for sharing border security intelligence and resources like physical barriers or surveillance systems. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for drug trafficking that causes death, requiring a minimum 12-year prison term for first offenses resulting in death, and raises fines for related violations. These provisions directly affect border communities, DPS operations, and individuals convicted of severe drug trafficking offenses.