New Mexico Governor Signs Executive Order Suspending Carry Rights in Albuquerque

New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham issued an executive order on Thursday that suspended open and concealed carry rights in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County.

The Details: Grisham declared gun violence a public health emergency in light of recent deadly shootings in New Mexico. The order applies to cities or counties where at least 1,000 violent crimes per 100,000 residents have occurred yearly since 2021, and where 90 gun-related emergency room visits per 100,000 residents have occurred between July 2022 and June 2023. Police officers and security guards are exempt from the order. Violators can face a fine of up to $5,000.

Key Quotes: In a statement, Grisham said, “When New Mexicans are afraid to be in crowds, to take their kids to school, to leave a baseball game — when their very right to exist is threatened by the prospect of violence at every turn — something is very wrong.” She remarked at a news conference, “I welcome the debate and fight about how to make New Mexicans safer.” Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen said in a statement, “While I understand and appreciate the urgency, the temporary ban challenges the foundation of our constitution, which I swore an oath to uphold. I am wary of placing my deputies in positions that could lead to civil liability conflicts, as well as the potential risks posed by prohibiting law-abiding citizens from their constitutional right to self-defense."

How The Media Covered It: Media across the spectrum covered the order and opposing perspectives similarly.