New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Media contact: Dan Williams, (505) 476-8004
Public contact:  (505) 476-8000
dan.williams@state.nm.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, APRIL 4, 2013:

GOVERNOR SIGNS BILL EXTENDING LICENSE REVOCATIONS FOR POACHING

SANTA FE – Poachers and other violators of New Mexico’s wildlife laws could lose their license privileges for periods beyond the current three-year limitation under legislation signed this week by Gov. Susana Martinez.

Senate Bill 73 allows the State Game Commission to increase license revocation periods for people convicted of severe violations, including “trophy poaching,” an offense usually associated with the removal of skulls and antlers and leaving the carcass to rot. The new law will become effective June 14.

“We are sending an important message to poachers,” Gov. Martinez said. “If they choose not to play by the rules, there will be serious consequences.”

The new law will allow the Commission to revoke violators’ license privileges far beyond the current three-year limit in severe cases. Lifetime revocations, such as those imposed by Colorado and Wyoming, are possible.

“We’re hoping this law will be a strong deterrent to anyone who might consider stealing New Mexico’s wildlife,” Department Director Jim Lane said.

For more information about New Mexico’s wildlife laws, please visit www.wildlife.state.nm.us. To report violations, please call the toll-free Operation Game Thief hotline, (800) 432-4263. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for rewards if information leads to charges being filed.

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