Anthony Segura, executive director of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association (NMSSA), expressed concerns regarding Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's anticipated initiative for a special legislative session aimed at enacting rifle and magazine bans. Segura argued that such measures would disproportionately affect law-abiding gun owners while failing to address violent crime.
"New Mexicans have made it clear time and again that they will not stand for unconstitutional attacks on their rights," said Segura. "Governor Lujan Grisham is determined to criminalize law-abiding gun owners while doing nothing to address violent crime in our communities. We will do everything in our power to oppose these measures and defend the Second Amendment rights of every New Mexican. If the Governor calls a special session to advance her anti-gun agenda, we will need a unified response from New Mexicans who value their freedom."
The New Mexico Governor’s office revealed during an August 2025 interim legislative meeting that plans are underway for a special session to advance gun control legislation, including bans on rifles and standard-capacity magazines. These proposals form part of a broader gun safety agenda championed by Governor Lujan Grisham throughout her tenure. The announcement has elicited strong opposition from gun rights organizations, including NMSSA, which argue that the proposals infringe upon constitutional rights.
According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, New Mexico recorded one of the highest violent crime rates in the United States in 2023, with 778.2 incidents per 100,000 residents. This statistic places New Mexico among the top five states for violent crime, with Albuquerque accounting for a significant portion of these incidents. Critics of the proposed firearm legislation contend that efforts should focus on addressing the root causes of crime rather than implementing bans affecting lawful gun owners.
Several studies have questioned the efficacy of assault weapon bans in curbing gun violence. For instance, a 2019 study by the RAND Corporation found "limited evidence" that bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines effectively reduce mass shootings or violent crime. The study underscores the complexity of preventing gun violence and emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies.
Segura serves as executive director of NMSSA, which is affiliated with the National Rifle Association. He has been an active advocate for Second Amendment rights across New Mexico, frequently participating in legislative hearings and public forums.
