1. United States
2. N.M.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support Senate Bill 17, the Stop Illegal Gun Act, as it moves through the House Judiciary Committee. This legislation represents a critical opportunity to address New Mexico's escalating gun violence crisis while respecting responsible gun ownership. The bill takes measured, commonsense steps by requiring licensed gun dealers to maintain inventory records and implement security measures, holding retailers accountable for enforcing existing laws. These provisions directly address documented cases where firearms purchased from gun stores have ended up in dangerous hands, including a weapon found on a student at West Mesa High School. When dealers fail to track their inventory properly, guns flow into the illicit market and our communities pay the price. The legislation also classifies gas-operated semiautomatic firearms, .50 caliber rifles, and magazines holding more than 10 rounds as dangerous weapons. These military-grade weapons have been used repeatedly in mass shootings across the country. As Rep. Andrea Romero stated, this bill prohibits the sale of the most dangerous weapons while allowing law-abiding citizens to continue exercising their Second Amendment rights responsibly. Regina Griego, whose 15-year-old nephew killed his siblings and parents, testified that this bill would save lives. The New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops, including Archbishop John Wester, Bishop James Wall, and Bishop Peter Baldacchino, endorsed the legislation, emphasizing the need to advance laws that protect society and reduce military-style weapons on our streets. After five hours of testimony on February 11, the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee advanced this bill with a 6-5 vote. The data is clear: gun violence in New Mexico is skyrocketing. This legislation balances public safety with constitutional rights by focusing on dealer accountability and restricting the most dangerous weapons. I urge you to vote yes on Senate Bill 17 when it reaches the House Judiciary Committee and support its passage through the full House. Our communities deserve protection from preventable gun violence.