John Block, representative for New Mexico's 51st House District, has voiced criticism regarding the recent passage of House Bill 8. Block described the bill as ineffective in addressing real crime issues and expressed concerns over its provision that makes it a felony to own "a part" of a "gun conversion device." He shared these views in a post on X on February 15.
"Most Dems (and some Rs) vote for the Dems' weak sauce wannabe crime package that doesn't address crime issues and in turn makes you a felon if you own “a part” of a “gun conversion device," said Block, State Representative. "The House also voted on a 500-page bill that amends the tax code, which I voted against."
The post refers to the enactment of House Bill 8, also known as the "Criminal Competency and Treatment Act." This legislation was introduced by Representatives Christine Chandler, Joy Garratt, Cynthia Borrego, Kathleen Cates, and Charlotte Little. It addresses procedures for individuals deemed not competent to stand trial and expands the list of crimes eligible for criminal commitment. According to the bill's text, one such crime includes committing a felony involving firearm use.
Screenshot of State Representative John Block's Feb. 15 post on X
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Block included an image in his post showing the vote tally for House Bill 8, which passed with a vote of 48-20. The representatives who opposed the bill were Anyanou, Baca, Block himself, Brown, Chatfield, Duncan, Henry, Jones, Lord, Mason, McQueen, Meija Miraebel Moya, Montoya Murphy Pettigrew Rubio Sena Cortez Vincent Zamora. One representative was excused from voting.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced the passage of House Bill 8 in a news release dated February 17. She described it as an initial step toward ensuring accountability for criminals while updating New Mexico’s criminal competency and civil commitment procedures. Lujan Grisham urged legislators to continue advancing other public safety bills. The omnibus bill also encompasses House Bill 38 which classifies possession of a weapon conversion device as a third-degree felony. Convictions could result in up to three years' imprisonment and fines up to $5,000.
Block is a Republican politician from Otero County and founder of Piñon Post—a conservative news outlet. Re-elected in 2024 to represent House District 51—he advocates conservative values focusing on free speech limited government individual liberties.
