After the New Mexico House of Representatives debated an immigrant detention ban for hours Friday, a Senate committee quickly advanced it.

AI Summary:

On February 2, 2026, the New Mexico Senate Judiciary Committee voted 5-3 to advance House Bill 9, the Immigrant Safety Act, which bans government contracts with ICE for detention. Supporters argue it reflects changing times, while opponents warn it could lead to worse conditions for detained immigrants. The debate included protests against ICE and concerns over job losses at local detention facilities. Committee Chair Sen. Joseph Cervantes acknowledged his changed stance on the issue.