"CREDIBLE THREAT" DEFINITION

SB 90 defines "credible threat" in New Mexico's domestic violence law as any situation causing reasonable fear for physical safety based on statements, acts, or conduct - not requiring actual firearm use. If a court determines a credible threat exists during a domestic violence protection order hearing, it must order the abuser to surrender all firearms and refrain from possessing firearms while the order is active. This directly affects victims of domestic violence and abusers in cases where courts issue protection orders. The bill expands firearm restrictions beyond scenarios involving direct firearm threats, ensuring courts can mandate firearm removal when safety concerns arise.