SANTA FE, N.M. — For so many people, it was the views and the outdoor activities that drew them to the Land of Enchantment.

“We have a wonderful state as far as outdoor recreation. We have everything from mountains and snow to desert to rivers, water, it can get quite dangerous,” said Teal Harbin, a New Mexico Search and Rescue advocate.

That’s why mountain rescue advocates want to update our state’s search and rescue response system.

“There is no notification requirement. So an entity can run a mission for days and if they have no more resources, it just goes from there,” said Robert Garcia, president of the New Mexico Search and Rescue Council.

This amendment, Senate Bill 353, would require local agencies to call New Mexico Search and Rescue when they’re called to help someone. They work under New Mexico State Police.

“For instance, if a call came in to dispatch here in Bernalillo County, they would give us a courtesy call and say, ‘Hey, we have this starting up on the crest just letting you guys know.’ So then one of our commanders can call and say, ‘Hey, we have this available if you want us to help we would be glad to,’” said Garcia.

While the amendment seems simple, advocates told KOB 4 when someone is stuck between a rock and hard place every second count.

“We also have areas of the state that are very remote so no matter who is responding it will probably take several hours to get to that person who needs help. That is the reason we also want to make sure there is no delay with those calls in particular because we are already running against time,” said Harbin.

We’re one of the few states that has a statewide search and rescue system. Making us trailblazers when it comes to this kind of legislation.

“We do have other states watching this bill quite closely that is exciting, so I hope we can serve as a positive example,” said Harbin.

Track SB 353 during the legislative session.