Criminal Code Definition Of "livestock"
The primary impact of SB381 is on the legal classification of larceny crimes concerning livestock. By amending the existing laws, it outlines the penalties for theft based on the monetary value of the stolen livestock. The bill sets forth a tiered penalty structure whereby the degree of felony charged increases with the value of the stolen livestock, providing a clearer framework for law enforcement and the judiciary. For example, theft of livestock valued at over $2,500 constitutes a second degree felony, which carries significant legal repercussions.
Senate Bill 381 is a legislative proposal that amends definitions and penalties related to the theft of livestock and firearms in New Mexico's criminal code. The bill specifically sought to redefine 'livestock' to include a variety of domestic and exotic animals typically raised on farms or ranches, including horses, cattle, goats, and various poultry. This broad definition aims to clarify what constitutes livestock under the law, ensuring that all relevant animals are protected under specific larceny statutes.
Points of contention surrounding SB381 primarily focus on the implications of redefining theft related to livestock. Advocates argue that the bill is essential for the protection of farmers and ranchers against increasing thefts in rural areas, citing that more stringent penalties may deter potential offenders. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the application of the law and whether it might lead to disproportionate sentences for minor offenses, particularly if non-valuable livestock are involved. This ongoing debate reflects broader anxieties about property rights and agricultural security in the state.