Legislation would create new public alert system for missing Native Americans

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House of Representatives unanimously voted to pass Senate Bill 41, which would create a new Turquoise Alert notification system to alert the public about missing Native Americans in New Mexico.

The "Turquoise Alert" system would aid in locating missing Native Americans in New Mexico through a specialized notification for missing persons who are enrolled members or eligible for enrollment in a federally recognized Indian nation, tribe, or pueblo.

"Communities like mine are all too familiar with the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people. For years now, we have stepped up on our own to help locate our missing brothers and sisters through coordinated local efforts and on social media," said sponsor Rep. Michelle Paulene Abeyta (D-To'hajiilee). "Establishing the Turquoise Alert will allow the state to amplify these community-led efforts to better ensure the protection and safe return of our loved ones."

Turquoise Alerts would rapidly disseminate information about missing persons through various channels, including radio stations, print and broadcast media, and cellular phone notifications. The Department of Public Safety would also be required to develop and implement Turquoise Alert plans and procedures to ensure a quick, coordinated response in searching for missing Native American people.

SB 41 now heads to the Governor for her signature. The bill is also sponsored by Rep. Charlotte Little (D-Albuquerque), and Senators Angel Charlie (D-Acoma) and Cindy Nava (D-Bernalillo).

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.