BHA Supports Senate Bill 291

At Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, we fight to protect wild places, fair chase hunting, and responsible fishing. But none of that matters if our fish and game laws aren’t enforced. That’s why we’re backing Senate Bill 291 (SB 291) sponsored by Senator Crystal Brantley (R)—a proposal that gives conservation officers explicit authority to crack down on poaching, illegal access, and other threats to our public lands. Click here to view full bill text. 

What Does SB 291 Do?

Right now, New Mexico’s conservation officers (game wardens) focus mainly on enforcing wildlife laws—checking tags, stopping poaching, and ensuring ethical hunting and fishing practices. But in many of the remote areas where we hunt and fish, they’re often the only law enforcement around.

SB 291 clarifies their authority to enforce criminal and motor vehicle laws without the requisite of an impending public safety emergency and inability to contact another enforcement agency:

• Criminal laws – Tackling trespassing, illegal dumping, and other violations.
• Motor vehicle laws – Addressing reckless driving and illegal road access on public lands.

Additionally, conservation officers would be able to enforce the Safe Boat Act, which they currently cannot, even in the case of a life threatening emergency:

• Boating laws – Keeping waters safe for anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Why This Matters for Hunters & Anglers

If you spend time in the backcountry, on the river, or in open country, you know that illegal activity can threaten our hunting and fishing traditions. Poaching, habitat destruction, and unauthorized access hurt wildlife populations and diminish opportunities for ethical sportsmen and women. With SB 291, conservation officers will have clear authority to take action when they encounter violations during the course of their wildlife conservation work.

Balancing Enforcement & Public Land Freedoms

We understand concerns about increased enforcement, and we believe in striking a balance between protecting our rights and ensuring our public lands are managed responsibly. SB 291 doesn’t change the rules for lawful hunters and anglers, it just gives game wardens the ability to better enforce the laws already in place.

BHA's Position Moving Forward

BHA believes in fair chase, ethical hunting, and keeping our wild places truly wild. Strong enforcement is a key part of that mission. SB 291 helps ensure that conservation officers can do their jobs effectively: protecting our wildlife, waters, and our public lands. View NM BHA's Letter of Support. If SB 291 is assigned to committee, BHA will actively track this bill, inform our members of its progress, and engage when necessary. 

Join BHA as a member to elevate the voice of hunters and anglers in New Mexico and nationally or sign up for our newsletter to receive policy and chapter updates. To share feedback or questions on this bill or other policy email the chapter at [email protected].