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SB 381

CRIMINAL CODE DEFINITION OF "LIVESTOCK"

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Candy Ezzell

SB 381 modifies New Mexico's criminal code definition of livestock, expanding animal theft and cruelty protections but faces postponed consideration after committee review.

action postponed indefinitely
#animals(fish #livestock #pets #wildlife) #crimes&penalties
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Bill Summary · SB 381

Legislative bill overview

SB 381 proposes to modify New Mexico's criminal code definition of "livestock" to potentially expand or clarify which animals receive legal protection under livestock theft and animal cruelty statutes. The bill was introduced by Senator Candy Ezzell and referred to both the Senate Judiciary Committee and Senate Finance Committee in February 2025, but its consideration was postponed indefinitely in June 2025.

Why is this important

Definitional changes to "livestock" in criminal code affect which animals receive statutory protection against theft and abuse, with implications for agricultural operations, animal welfare enforcement, and prosecutorial discretion. The scope of this definition influences insurance coverage, law enforcement priorities, and what constitutes a crime versus a civil matter in animal-related incidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Agricultural interest conflicts: Expanding the definition could increase liability for farmers and ranchers; narrowing it could leave certain animals unprotected
  • Animal welfare vs. property rights: Different stakeholders disagree on whether certain animals (exotic species, hobby animals, non-traditional livestock) should have criminal protections
  • Enforcement resource allocation: Broadening definitions requires law enforcement to investigate more incidents, raising budget concerns reviewed by the Finance Committee

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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