Homework Blog #2

In 2009, New Mexico joined 14 other states in the U.S. that don't impose death penalty. But it can all change now, with State Rep. Dennis Kintigh pushing to bring it back with the help of people's votes. The current state law for capital punishment can be changed by way of constitutional amendment. It means that if it passes both the House and the Senate, the final decision goes to the voters.

Kintigh said the sentence will only apply to crimes like murder of police officers and children. “I'm totally against the death penalty, but I do think the people should decide,” said Kintigh. “There are criminals who will think twice about using a weapon on an officer because of that death penalty.”

While some New Mexicans are against it, Public Safety Director Darren White said having death penalty provides a layer of protection for police officers. White, a former sheriff, had one of his own officers gunned down during a traffic stop in 2006. Kintigh understood that the reinstatement of death penalty will spark strong emotions throughout the state but he said he won't shy away from moving forward.

The Catholic Church had publicly stated that it is against death penalty.

What are your thoughs on the death penalty? Do you think that the legislation should be reviewed and constitution be amended or do you think it should stand as is? How do you think the public will react to this? Please answer in a short paragraph.
-Noriega