A. The legislature finds that:
(1) the level and increasingly violent nature of juvenile crime in New Mexico has reached alarming proportions; and
(2) alcohol and drug abuse among minors remains a serious social problem.
B. The purpose of the Law Enforcement Youth Cadet Corps Act is to:
(1) provide leadership training to students;
(2) improve awareness and appreciation among students regarding the functions and roles of law enforcement agencies in New Mexico; and
(3) prepare students to assist as volunteers in law enforcement programs in their own communities, including such programs as neighborhood watch, D.A.R.E. and pounders.