New Mexico’s executive order temporarily bans open and concealed carry in public spaces in Albuquerque.
Topline
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-N.M.) issued a landmark executive order this week temporarily blocking residents in Albuquerque and its surrounding suburbs from carrying firearms in public following a spate of gun deaths including the killing of an 11-year-old boy this week, sparking prominent Republicans to quickly criticize the measure—while law enforcement officials warn it might not be enforceable.Key Facts
Lujan Grisham signed the executive order on Friday, declaring a 30-day emergency to temporarily ban open and concealed firearm carry in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, which contains Albuquerque, a city of more than 560,000 people.
In the conference, Lujan Grisham admitted she expects a legal challenge, saying that “showing a little courage, even when the clarity of that courage will be challenged, is worth the fight,” while arguing that “no constitutional right is intended to be absolute,” comparing the temporary ban to restrictions that exist on free speech.
Its legality and enforceability have already proven to be roadblocks, with Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina saying the city’s police department will not be responsible for enforcing it, and Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen cautioning the order “challenges the foundation of our Constitution” (New Mexico State Police is tasked with enforcing the order).
Republican lawmakers, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a 2024 presidential candidate, quickly capitalized on the furor, with DeSantis declaring: “Your 2nd Amendment rights SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED.”
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), also criticized the ban in a post on X, calling the decision “flawed” and asking: “If a governor felt like declaring an emergency right before an election they’d be to suspend the 19th Amendment and stop women from voting [sic]
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According to the ban, which is classified as a public health order and took effect immediately, open and concealed carry will be banned on public property for 30 days “with certain exceptions,” including for security guards and law enforcement agents—with violators facing fines up to $5,000.
