Democratic New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday amended the existing “stay-at-home” order that closed all businesses not deemed “essential.” The governor’s original March 23 COVID-19 order did not list gun stores and shooting ranges as essential, forcing them to close down.
NSSF® filed an amicus brief in support of the retailer plaintiffs in Aragon v. Grisham, a motion seeking a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction. When faced with a legal certainty her order wouldn’t pass constitutional muster, the governor amended the order for firearm retailers and ranges to operate by appointment only and conduct firearm transfers.
The amended order states:
“Federally licensed firearm dealers may operate to the extent necessary to conduct background checks and to allow individuals to take possession of firearms that were ordered online or through other remote means. They shall provide these services by appointment only. Shooting ranges may open by appointment and shall ensure that appropriate social distancing measures are in place.”
Gov. Grisham ignored the Second Amendment rights of New Mexicans for more than five weeks. She clearly understands the original order is not defensible. Similarly, New Jersey Gov. Murphy, when confronted with litigation, reversed his executive order allowing firearm retailers to reopen.
NSSF urges all members to closely follow CDC guidelines, practice social distancing and take precautions to protect the health and safety of their employees and customers.
