New Mexico State Representatives tour New Mexico-Mexico border
DONA ANA COUNTY, New Mexico (KVIA) -- Congressman Rod Montoya and State Rep. Larry Scott toured the border today with the Western States Sheriffs' Association, they were also joined by several other New Mexico State Representatives.
The visit aims to "provide members of the legislature with a full understanding of the impacts the open border is having in communities across the state," according to a spokesperson.
New Mexico State Representatives found some of the issues impacting the state of New Mexico are stash houses, human trafficking and drug smuggling.
New Mexico State Representatives Stefani Lord said Fentanyl is the top threat in the city of Albuquerque.
"if you take a drive around the city of Albuquerque, especially down central, you will see people lying in the sidewalks passed out."
Congressman Montoya says placing the National Guard along the border like other states maybe helpful in New Mexico.
After the press conference Congressman Montoya said they will continue the discussion to find the most effective legislation.
"New Mexico is its own animal. Just because Texas is doing it doesn't mean we'll do it just because Arizona is doing it. doesn't necessarily mean that's our path forward. But, where there have been proven, benefits from introducing legislation, we want to do that. I do believe one piece of legislation, that we have to do, we have to increase penalties for traffickers of fentanyl."
