Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Firearms Concealed Carry topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee advances changes to concealed-carry rules, shortens training minimum and raises penalty for unpermitted carry
Summary
Senate Bill 507 (Senate file number shown in committee as 507) would shorten minimum classroom training for concealed-carry permits and raise the penalty for carrying concealed without a permit; the committee approved the measure and members discussed training quality and reciprocity.
Senate Bill 507, a proposal to revise New Mexico's concealed-carry permit statute, received debate about training standards and reciprocity before the committee approved the bill.
Sponsor Sen. (presenting) described multiple changes: reducing the statutory minimum classroom instruction for concealed-carry certification from longer weekend-style courses to a stated minimum of six hours; removing a caliber-based qualification distinction; extending recognition to lawful permanent residents as eligible for permits; and increasing the penalty for carrying concealed without a permit from a petty misdemeanor to a misdemeanor. The sponsor said the aim was to encourage responsible license-holding by lowering barriers to receiving formal training while increasing penalties for unpermitted carrying.
Supporters included many current permit holders and training instructors. William Fire Eyes, a concealed-carry licensee, testified in support. Dale Perkins, a firearms instructor who trains thousands of students, cautioned that shorter minimums could challenge instructors who currently teach longer courses and that trainers may still choose to offer longer classes. Committee members raised concerns about course quality and oversight; Representative Skopanski and others urged stronger auditing and enforcement so instructors meet competency and safety standards.
Committee action: Vice Chair Little moved a do-pass recommendation; the motion carried and the committee advanced the bill. Transcript demonstrates broad discussion of training oversight; the sponsor and committee members said they will follow up with the Department of Public Safety about certification and enforcement of instructor standards.
Ending: The committee forwarded SB 507 with a do-pass recommendation; members requested follow-up on instructor auditing and the Department of Public Safety's implementation of training and reciprocity standards.
