Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07) introduced a bill to enhance law enforcement training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, New Mexico. The legislation will facilitate a land exchange between FLETC and Caza Ranches, LLC, allowing for the expansion of emergency vehicle training facilities to better prepare law enforcement officers for high-risk driving situations.

“Every second counts in an emergency. Our law enforcement officers need the best training to navigate high-speed situations safely and effectively,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “This bill is a common-sense step to give officers the tools they need to protect our communities and get home safely. When officers train better, our communities stay safer. We are investing in law enforcement readiness, giving them the resources to react quickly and effectively in high-pressure situations. This bill strengthens public safety for New Mexico and the Nation.”

“Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) play a critical role in preparing our nation’s law enforcement agencies and officers with the skills they need to fulfill their duties. Having seen firsthand the benefits of a FLETC in South Carolina, I know how vital these facilities are in ensuring our officers receive top-tier training,” said Congressman Russell Fry (SC-07).  “The proposed land exchange in Artesia is a smart, commonsense investment in our national law enforcement and will support Custom and Border Protection (CBP) and Border Patrol agents' mission in strengthening our borders.”

FLETC Artesia provides critical training for law enforcement officers from across the country, including advanced driver training for emergency response and pursuit scenarios. The center’s current facilities include emergency and off-road driving ranges, but additional space is needed to accommodate a growing demand for specialized training. This bill enables a mutually beneficial land exchange that would optimize land use for the construction of a new driving track, ensuring officers have the hands-on experience needed to handle real-world challenges.

Under the bill, FLETC will receive a 160-acre parcel adjacent to its existing training range, while Caza Ranches will receive an equal tract of undeveloped land. The Department of Homeland Security’s recent Environmental Assessment found no significant impacts from the exchange, and the measure received no public opposition during the comment period.

The bill now moves forward in Congress, where Leger Fernández and her colleagues will continue advocating for resources that enhance law enforcement training and readiness.

Full bill HERE.

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