Colorado's recent legislation on gun control has sparked discussions in neighboring New Mexico. Governor Jared Polis of Colorado signed a law restricting the sale of most semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. This law, effective August 2026, requires buyers to complete a state-approved safety course and undergo enhanced background checks for firearms like AR-15s, AK-pattern rifles, and semi-automatic handguns.
In response, gun rights advocates in New Mexico are expressing concerns over Senate Bill 279 (SB-279), which is pending in the New Mexico Legislature. Zac Fort, Legislative Chairman of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association (NMSSA), said, "Colorado took a major step toward restricting constitutional rights this week." He added that SB-279 could impose even stricter measures than those in Colorado.
SB-279 aims to ban semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns with specific features such as detachable magazines and pistol grips. It also proposes banning magazines holding more than ten rounds and introducing felony charges for possession of newly defined "assault weapons." The bill includes civil penalties and lawsuits against firearm manufacturers and dealers.
Although SB-279 has not yet been heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee, activists believe Colorado's new law might encourage similar legislative efforts in New Mexico. Fort commented on the cultural differences between the states but warned of potential out-of-state influence: "New Mexico’s culture, constitution, and rural communities are very different from Colorado’s," he said. "But we’re not immune to out-of-state influence. SB-279 is part of a coordinated effort to restrict Second Amendment rights across the West."
The NMSSA is urging members and the public to contact legislators regarding SB-279 or related proposals in future sessions. For more information or involvement opportunities, visit www.nmssa.org.
