New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, took decisive action on Friday by issuing an emergency order to suspend the right to carry guns in public across Albuquerque and Bernalillo County for a minimum of 30 days. This move comes in the wake of recent incidents of gun-related violence, including the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy who was shot outside a minor league baseball stadium earlier this week.
In a statement, Gov. Lujan Grisham expressed her concern about the fear and insecurity that New Mexicans face due to the looming threat of violence in public spaces. The governor acknowledged that the order may encounter legal challenges, but she believed it was necessary to address the alarming increase in gun-related deaths.
The emergency order, classified as a public health order, applies to both open and concealed carry in most public places. However, it does not apply to police officers and licensed security guards. The restriction is specifically targeting the Albuquerque area, which has reached a threshold for violent crime rates.
Violators of the order may face civil penalties and fines of up to $5,000, according to Caroline Sweeney, the governor’s spokeswoman. While the state police will enforce the order, it is worth noting that not all law enforcement officials, including the district attorney for Albuquerque’s jurisdiction, are in agreement with the decision.
During a news conference, Gov. Lujan Grisham welcomed the discussion and debate surrounding measures to increase safety for New Mexicans. However, Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen expressed concerns about the temporary ban, as it challenges the principles of the constitution. Nevertheless, Sheriff Allen emphasized his willingness to cooperate in addressing gun violence.
To support the necessity of the order, Gov. Lujan Grisham referred to recent shootings in Albuquerque, such as the incident outside the Albuquerque Isotopes’ field that resulted in the death of 11-year-old Froyland Villegas and critically injured a woman. Another tragic event took place in August when 5-year-old Galilea Samaniego was shot and killed while sleeping in her home. Additionally, a 14-year-old boy fatally shot his 13-year-old friend in Taos County.
State Sen. Greg Baca, the highest-ranking Republican in the Senate, condemned the governor’s decision, characterizing it as an attack on law-abiding citizens instead of capturing the perpetrators responsible for these crimes. Conversely, Miranda Viscoli, co-president of New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence, supported the order, emphasizing that if it can save even one life, it is a necessary step to reduce gun violence.
Gov. Lujan Grisham has been actively working to restrict gun access since 2019, signing several bills into law, including a “red flag” law that permits law enforcement to seek court orders to temporarily remove guns from individuals who pose a threat to themselves or others. She also signed a ban on gun possession for those under permanent protective orders due to domestic violence.
In addition to the gun suspension order, the governor directed state regulators to conduct monthly inspections of firearms dealers throughout the state to ensure compliance with existing gun laws. The state Department of Health will also compile a comprehensive report on gunshot victims in New Mexico hospitals, including demographic information and firearm specifics.
It is important to note that the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
