Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Support Public Safety, National Security

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.-02) voted to support law enforcement’s efforts to bolster public safety in his vote against H.R. 4639.

“Keeping our communities safe will always be my top priority. My vote today ensures law enforcement and national security officials can continue to use the necessary information to reduce crime in our district,” said Vasquez. “I will always stand up for Americans' constitutional rights and will continue to work to ensure that my constituents' online privacy is protected. However, H.R. 4639 would have hampered law enforcement investigations while leaving Americans’ data exposed to bad actors and criminals abroad.”

H.R. 4639 would have limited law enforcement’s ability to use critical technology and information to reduce crime and bring perpetrators to justice. 

“New Mexico State Police are facing criminal activity that is becoming increasingly sophisticated and using technology to commit crimes. It is critically important for law enforcement to have access to the information we need to identify, prosecute and bring those who harm society to justice,” said New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler.

“As Bernalillo County Sheriff, I appreciate Congressman Vasquez’s vote to protect valuable investigative tools for law enforcement,” said Sheriff John Allen. “Our department relies on a variety of technologies and information tools to protect our community and solve criminal investigations. H.R. 4639 would have hurt our communities and our ability to do our jobs well.”

Vasquez remains committed to promoting public safety and supporting law enforcement officers who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities while ensuring that all citizens are protected by their constitutional right to privacy and unwarranted search and seizure. 

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