Findings and purpose.

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.