Bill would criminalize the lawful carrying of firearms in polling places

SANTA FE—Today, the Senate Rules Committee advanced Senate Bill 5 on a party-line vote of 7-4 with all Republicans voting against the measure. The bill aims to criminalize the lawful carrying of firearms in polling places, including those who have a concealed carry permit. 

Senate Republican Leader, Senator Greg Baca (R-Belen), a member of the Senate Rules Committee, issued the following statement:

“This unnecessary bill is predicated on anecdotes and it’s clear that the real intent is to roll back the Second Amendment one chip at a time. With legislation like this, Senate Democrats continue to target law-abiding citizens instead of going after the criminals who have no regard for the law. Given the rampant crime and violence gripping our streets, the right of our people to defend themselves is more important than ever and we continue our steadfast fight to uphold that right.”