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Apr 8, 2025 · New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD)

Bill reforming good time credit signed into law

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Brittany Roembach

Public Information Officer, Corrections Department

Brittany.roembach@cd.nm.gov

505-382-3541

April 7, 2025

Bill reforming good time credit signed into law

SB375 gained bipartisan support during legislative process

SANTA FE – Senate Bill 375, the "Probation & Parole Changes" bill was signed into law today by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

“I am grateful to Governor Lujan Grisham for signing this important bipartisan supported legislation into law today,” said NMCD Cabinet Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero . “This bill will prioritize both rehabilitation and public safety, ensuring better outcomes for individuals transitioning back into our communities."

SB 375 addresses systemic challenges that previously discouraged individuals from completing parole in the community. Under prior law, some parolees found it more advantageous to violate their supervision terms and return to prison for a shorter sentence. This new law will reverse that trend by awarding good time credits to those who successfully complete their parole in the community.

Key provisions of SB375:

Provides early completion opportunities for high-performing, low-risk probationers who meet all court-ordered requirements

Is budget-neutral and eliminates parole costs, allowing parolees to allocate funds toward necessities such as housing, transportation, and food, thereby easing their transition back to the community

Simplifies the calculation of good time credits by awarding all meritorious deductions at the time of admission, resulting in clearer release dates and greater transparency for victims, offenders, and families

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The New Mexico Corrections Department (NMCD) is one of the largest state departments in New Mexico. The department staff and volunteers are fully committed to integrating programs in its facilities for rehabilitation. It is through programs and services the department aims to improve outcomes for offenders and enhance public safety in communities. For more information, visit cd.nm.gov or follow NMCD on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , X at @NMCDPIO.