In a bold move to address rising gun violence, New Mexico’s Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham recently instituted a 30-day prohibition on the carrying of firearms, openly or concealed, in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, regardless of permit status. This directive, which came into effect immediately, mandates that aside from law enforcement and licensed security officers, no one is allowed to carry firearms in regions with a high average of violent crimes since 2021.
The decision, classifying gun violence as a public health emergency, was brought forward amidst a series of child fatalities, notably an 11-year-old who lost his life in a road rage incident. The Governor, anticipating legal obstacles, asserted the necessity of the move to initiate serious dialogue on tackling gun violence and to prevent further losses.
It’s not all bad, though, New Mexico. She doesn’t want to take all of your rights.
Despite the restrictive measures, individuals can still possess firearms on private properties and at licensed venues. How nice. During travel, firearms need to be securely locked. The policy enforcement falls under the purview of the New Mexico State Police, rather than local authorities. Non-compliance could result in misdemeanor charges.
Governor Lujan Grisham aims to revisit this order post the 30-day timeframe, adjusting it based on the evolving situation and insights from a comprehensive report on gunshot victims to be compiled by the state Department of Health. Another separate directive focuses on battling substance abuse, incorporating initiatives like wastewater drug testing at public schools.
Critics, including Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis and Senate Minority Leader Greg Baca, vehemently opposed the move, denouncing it as unconstitutional and an infringement on the rights of law-abiding citizens. The Governor, undeterred, reiterated her commitment to tightening gun laws, signaling potential efforts to push for an ‘assault weapons’ ban in the near future.
Keep calm, and carry on.
