SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The Latest on disagreements over bail reform in New Mexico (all times local):
7:00 a.m.
New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is declining an invitation from state lawmakers to discuss her proposal to repeal and replace voter-approved bail reforms.
Martinez on Tuesday declined an invitation to appear before a panel of lawmakers in a letter that said New Mexico residents are appalled by the results of a constitutional amendment approved by voters last year to reform the state’s bail system.
In Facebook posts last week, Martinez lambasted the amendment and new pre-trial release and detention procedures as a threat to public safety.
It is unclear what changes she would like to see, though Martinez says current rules tip the balance of justice in favor of the accused.
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1:00 a.m.
New Mexico state lawmakers are inviting Republican Gov. Susana Martinez to explain her plan for repealing and replacing voter-approved bail reforms.
Democratic state Rep. Antonio Maestas and GOP Sen. Sander Rue on Tuesday asked Martinez in a letter to present her proposal for replacing a constitutional amendment on bail reform to members of a criminal justice subcommittee. The panel meets Friday.
In Facebook posts last week, Martinez lambasted the amendment and new pre-trial release and detention procedures as a threat to public safety.
Maestas said the posts have created a whirlwind of confusion about recent changes to the state’s bail system designed to rein in the role of monetary bail, and that lawmakers hope to hear a more detailed plan.
The governor’s office had no immediate response to the invitation.
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