REGIONAL TRANSIT DISTRICT LAW ENFORCEMENT

SB 123 clarifies law enforcement responsibilities for regional transit districts in New Mexico. It allows districts to employ their own law enforcement officers with authority over district-owned property, tracks, vehicles, and facilities, requiring officers to wear distinctive badges or uniforms for valid arrests. The bill mandates that these officers obtain state certification within one year of hire and permits districts to contract with external law enforcement agencies. This directly affects transit districts and their officers by defining their legal authority and operational requirements. The bill was postponed indefinitely on June 3, 2025, after committee approval.