New Mexico Legislation Protects Firearm Businesses from Future Mandated Closures HB 279 To Be Heard For Consideration in the House Consumer & Public Affairs Committee
HB 279, introduced by Representative Stephani Lord (R-District 22), would prevent the Governor or Department of Health from ordering the closure or restriction of firearm-related businesses, including shooting ranges, during any declared emergency or public health order in the future. Gov. Lujan Grisham's refusal last year to list these businesses as “essential,” pursuant to guidance from the U.S Department of Homeland Security, forced many throughout the state to close.
Because the Legislature banned all private transfers of firearms in 2019, these government-mandated closures resulted in countless New Mexicans being denied their Right to Keep and Bear Arms, as enshrined in both the U.S. and New Mexico constitutions. This was at a time when Americans throughout the country were buying firearms in record numbers, including 8.4 million first-time buyers, to protect themselves and their families during a period of uncertainty and lawlessness.
HB 279 will be heard for consideration in the House Consumer & Public Affairs Committee on Tuesday, February 23, at 1:30 PM or upon final adjournment of the House floor. You may participate in the virtual Zoom meeting by copying the following link and pasting it into your browser: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89243737297.
You may also watch the committee proceedings by clicking here.
NSSF® urges you to please contact your New Mexico state representative today and ask that he or she support HB 279 and ensure that New Mexicans are not denied their Right to Keep and Bear Arms in the future. You may find your representative here.