New Mexico Democrats Propose Gun Control Legislation

Democrats in New Mexico are advancing a gun control proposal that aims to prohibit the most popular semi-automatic rifles in the country. It also seeks to impose new limitations and requirements for gun store owners.

Recently, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported that Senate Bill 17 passed through the state Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee with support from the Democratic members.

This proposed legislation includes measures such as “minimum age and background checks” for gun store employees, along with tracking inventory and sales as well as security protocols.

The text of Senate Bill 17 highlights several “Security Requirements” that will be mandated, including:

Enhancements to facilities such as locks on doors and windows. The required equipment must prevent unauthorized access, potentially involving bars, security screens, and commercial-grade doors. Additionally, a video surveillance system must be installed, capturing footage from both indoor and outdoor perspectives at all points of sale and entrances. These recordings must be kept for a minimum of two years. Other reasonable measures, determined by the Department and the Attorney General, will also aim to reduce robbery risks and firearm theft at the dealer’s premises.

Senator Jay Bullock, a Republican from Rio Rancho, has criticized the bill, calling it “the worst mockery of the Second Amendment in state history.”

He further commented, “Rather than addressing the actions of violent criminals and repeat offenders, the extreme left of the Democratic Party is focusing on law-abiding New Mexicans and small business owners.”