Rebecca Dow, a representative for New Mexico's House District 38, expressed concerns about Senate Bill 318, describing it as a "lawsuit waiting to happen" and criticizing it as an attempt by Democrats to expand "unfair trade prices far beyond gun dealers." Dow made these remarks in a post on the social media platform X on March 13.

"This bill is a lawsuit waiting to happen," said Dow, State Representative. "Watch now while the so called “moderate democrat” expands unfair trade prices far beyond gun dealers."

According to Dow, she shared a post from Representative Stefani Lord that included video footage from the Senate Chamber where Senate Bill 318 was under discussion. Lord said that the bill would "annihilate small businesses and the gun industry."

Screenshot of State Representative Rebecca Dow's March 13 post on X | X

Senate Bill 318 aims to place firearms and destructive devices under the jurisdiction of the Unfair Practices Act. The bill includes provisions for weapons that could be converted to expel a projectile (excluding shotgun shells) and combinations of parts intended to convert a device into a destructive device. The act allows individuals harmed by unfair or deceptive trade practices to seek actual damages or up to $10,000, whichever is greater. Additionally, failure to respond to a subpoena in cases involving violations of the Unfair Practices Act related to manufacturing, advertising, distributing, or selling firearms would result in a $10,000 penalty along with attorney fees and costs.

The bill is sponsored by Senator Joseph Cervantes. A Senate Floor Amendment passed on March 13 defines a firearm accessory as "any attachment or device inserted or affixed onto any firearm to alter the functioning capabilities of the firearm." The amendment also increased penalties for parties charged with unfair or deceptive trade practices, requiring them to pay up to three times actual damages or $30,000, whichever is greater. It also raised statutory damages penalties for failing to respond to subpoenas from $25,000 to $30,000.

Dow represents Grant, Hidalgo, and Sierra counties as a Republican politician. She previously served as a state representative and reclaimed her seat in House District 38 in 2024 by defeating Democratic incumbent Tara Jaramillo. Her campaign focused on pro-business initiatives and education reform. Dow has been recognized for her work in early childhood education and community service.