New Mexico Senate Passes Gun Control Bill

On Saturday, New Mexico Senate Democrats approved a bill that implements a wide-ranging ban on semi-automatic firearms alongside new regulations for licensed gun dealers.

The legislation, known as SB 17, secured passage with a vote of 21-17.

New Mexico’s Senate Republicans, represented by Leader Bill Shearer, expressed strong disapproval. In a statement, he remarked:

Today, Democrats in Santa Fe chose to strip away New Mexicans’ right to defend themselves and their families. They’ve openly admitted that this bill is likely unconstitutional, yet they are nonetheless enforcing it upon law-abiding citizens. It’s essential for New Mexicans to be represented by officials who honor their oaths rather than activists who seem to have a disdain for our Constitution and advocate for extreme policies that could undermine our nation.

According to Breitbart News, SB 17 introduces new “safety requirements” for firearm dealers, such as:

… Enhancements like locks on doors and windows, as well as security features aimed at preventing unauthorized access. This could involve the use of bars or grates, security screens, and robust metal doors. Additionally, installation of a video surveillance system at every point of sale and each entrance is mandated; recordings must capture both indoor and outdoor views, maintained for a minimum of two years. The Department, alongside the Attorney General, may impose further reasonable requirements to mitigate the risks of robberies and theft of firearms.

The proposed bill also aims to prohibit the most commonly used semi-automatic rifle in the country, as well as a variety of semi-automatic shotguns and handguns.

State Senator Jay Bullock (R-Rio Rancho) labeled the legislation as “the worst mockery of the Second Amendment in state history.”