Legislative Update: Firearm Bills Gain Momentum in Final Days of Session
As the New Mexico legislative session enters its final week, lawmakers are pushing forward with key bills aimed at tightening firearm regulations. Two of the most closely watched measures—House Bill 12 and Senate Bill 279—are drawing both support and opposition as they move through the legislative process.
“These bills are being framed as public safety measures,” said Larry Martinez of KSWV Radio. “But they are also facing strong pushback from those who argue they infringe on constitutional rights.”
House Bill 12: Expanding Red Flag Laws
House Bill 12, officially titled the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Changes Act, seeks to expand New Mexico’s red flag law. Under current law, when law enforcement receives a report that an individual poses a danger to themselves or others, officers must obtain a court order before seizing the individual’s firearms—a process that typically takes two to three days.
“This bill would allow police to take firearms away the same day a report is made,” Martinez explained. “Supporters argue this could prevent violent incidents before they happen, while opponents see it as a violation of due process.”
The bill has already cleared significant legislative hurdles. It passed the House with a 41-27 vote and has since moved through the Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee and the Senate Judiciary Committee. Now, it is set to go before the full Senate for a vote on March 18.
Senate Bill 279: Restrictions on Semi-Automatic Firearms
The second major proposal, Senate Bill 279, is known as the Gas Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms Exclusion Act. The bill seeks to ban certain types of semi-automatic firearms, a measure that has sparked considerable debate.
“This bill aims to reduce the availability of specific firearms in an effort to curb gun violence,” Martinez said. “However, many Second Amendment advocates argue that it unfairly targets law-abiding gun owners.”
The bill has passed the Senate Judiciary Committee and is now awaiting review by the Senate Finance Committee. With the session quickly coming to a close, there are questions about whether lawmakers will have enough time to advance it further.
The Debate Continues
Supporters of both bills say they are necessary steps to prevent gun violence, citing recent shootings in New Mexico and across the country. Critics, however, argue that the legislation risks overreach and could violate constitutional protections.
“As the legislative session winds down, we’ll continue tracking these bills and providing updates,” Martinez said. “No matter which side of the issue you’re on, it’s clear that this debate isn’t going away anytime soon.”
For continued coverage, stay tuned to KSWV Radio.
As the legislative session draws to a close, host Larry Martinez highlights pivotal bills affecting firearm laws. House Bill 12 seeks to expedite the process of removing firearms from potentially dangerous individuals, while Senate Bill 279 focuses on the outright ban of specific firearm types. This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the proposals and explores the tension between public safety initiatives and Second Amendment rights. Tune in for the latest updates and insights into the ongoing legislative debates.
