NMDP News:

SANTA FE — Friday, the New Mexico House of Representatives passed House Bill 306 with broad bipartisan support by a vote of 62-3.

House Bill 306 would prevent felons from using a loophole to gain access to firearms. The bill aligns New Mexico laws with existing federal law prohibiting and penalizing individuals who purchase and transfer firearms to felons.

“New Mexicans have sent a clear mandate to lawmakers that we must take crime seriously and we must get tough on criminals, including those that assist in skirting laws to provide illegal access to firearms,” said lead sponsor House Minority Leader Ryan Lane (R-Aztec). “This measure is one step to ensure that felons are prevented from gaining illegal access to firearms, while providing local law enforcement with an additional tool to prosecute and keep felons off the streets. Republicans take the 2nd amendment very seriously, and this commonsense measure will ensure that law-abiding firearm owners’ rights are not infringed upon and will prevent felons from accessing illegal firearms.” 

“Firearms falling into the hands of dangerous people enables violent crime,” co-sponsor Rep. Raymundo Lara (D-Chamberino) said. “We can save lives and make New Mexico safer by making sure people who should not have guns in the first place cannot get them.”

HB 306 is sponsored by Reps. Lane, Lara and Andrea Reeb (R-Clovis). The bill now heads to the Senate.

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the 2023 session. Members of the public can also view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.