New Mexico’s SB 279 Seeks to Ban Most Semiautomatic Rifles, Handguns, and Standard Magazines

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SANTA FE, NM — A controversial new bill, Senate Bill 279 (SB 279), threatens to upend the rights of law-abiding gun owners across New Mexico by enacting some of the most restrictive firearm regulations in the nation. Introduced by a group of Democratic lawmakers, the Gas-Operated Semiautomatic Firearms Exclusion Act would ban the sale, transfer, and possession of nearly all semiautomatic firearms that use gas-operated cycling systems—which includes many of the most common rifles and handguns used for self-defense, hunting, and sport shooting.

If passed, this legislation would:

• Ban the sale, manufacture, transfer, and receipt of gas-operated semiautomatic firearms
• Require existing owners to register their firearms with the state by January 1, 2026
• Force gun owners to carry a notarized certification anytime they transport their firearm outside their home
• Ban so-called “large-capacity” magazines over ten rounds
• Prohibit devices that increase a firearm’s rate of fire, including modifications for smoother operation

Failure to comply with these new restrictions could turn law-abiding gun owners into criminals overnight, with violations carrying misdemeanor or felony penalties.

A De Facto Gun Ban Disguised as “Public Safety”

Proponents of the bill argue that restricting access to semiautomatic firearms will reduce violent crime. However, the bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip New Mexicans of their Second Amendment rights while doing nothing to address the state’s real crime problems.

State Representative Stefani Lord (R-District 22) condemned the bill as “the worst gun grab in the country,”pointing out that it bans firearms already owned by thousands of New Mexicans. She warned that the bill’s vague language could criminalize responsible gun owners and lead to selective enforcement.

Walter Bracken, owner of BMC Tactical in Albuquerque, also criticized the bill, highlighting its sweeping scope. “They want to ban anything gas-operated, including classic firearms like the M1 Carbine and Mini-14—guns that have been in civilian hands for decades. This bill is pure overreach.”

A Registration Scheme That Paves the Way for Confiscation

While SB 279’s sponsors claim it does not ban previously owned firearms outright, it forces existing owners to register their guns with the state by January 1, 2026—a move that gun rights groups argue is just the first step toward confiscation.

Under the bill’s provisions:

• Firearms must be certified through the state’s attorney general or a licensed firearms dealer
• Owners must carry a notarized certification at all times outside their home
• Transfers of registered firearms are only allowed between immediate family members
• Dealers must mark and maintain records of these firearms for law enforcement inspection

This is a clear gun registry, something historically used in other countries as a prelude to outright confiscation.

Ignoring the Real Issue: Crime in New Mexico

New Mexico currently ranks as one of the most dangerous states in the country, with Albuquerque’s violent crime rate soaring over recent years. Yet, instead of cracking down on criminals, SB 279 targets law-abiding citizens who responsibly own and use firearms for protection.

Law enforcement agencies already struggle to enforce existing gun laws against violent offenders. Instead of addressing gang violence, drug trafficking, and repeat offenders, this bill diverts resources to tracking and policing legal gun owners.

Take Action: Tell Legislators to Vote NO on SB 279

SB 279 is currently in the New Mexico Senate Finance Committee, and gun owners still have time to voice their opposition. If this bill becomes law, it will set a dangerous precedent not just for New Mexico, but for the rest of the country.

How to Fight Back:

• Contact your state senators and representatives and urge them to vote NO on SB 279.
• Attend Second Amendment rallies and public hearings to make your voice heard.
• Share information about the bill with fellow gun owners and spread awareness on social media.
• Use pro-gun advocacy tools like Sp teak4 to send emails to lawmakers.

The fight for gun rights in New Mexico is far from over, but SB 279 is a serious threat that cannot be ignored. Every New Mexican who values their right to self-defense, hunting, and shooting sports should stand up against this radical and unconstitutional legislation before it’s too late.