New rule change by Democratic leaders would ban all firearms from Capitol grounds

SANTA FE – Today, Democrats on the Legislative Council voted to ban firearms on Capitol grounds. The Roundhouse is widely regarded as the most publicly accessible state Capitol in the nation. The resolution passed today is a radical shift in the approach to citizens' rights in a public building. As adopted, the rule gives the Democratic Speaker of the House and Senate President Pro-Tempore the sole authority to authorize anyone without an exception to carry a firearm.

Senator Greg Baca (District 29-Bernalillo and Valencia) and Senator Craig Brandt (District 40-Sandoval), who both voted against the measure, issued the following statement regarding the rule change:

"It is clear that Democratic leaders in New Mexico know no bounds when it comes to their unchecked power. Although we are used to legislative assaults on New Mexicans' rights, this is a uniquely bad, overly-broad, and rushed proposal that was written by politicians, not safety experts. The complete subversion of the legislative process is a disgraceful relinquishment of the mandate of our chambers. We swore under oath to defend our constituents' rights, not interpret them as we see fit. As with all assaults on the Second Amendment, this ban is solely an assault on law abiding citizens and does nothing to improve security. With no one to stop a criminal from jeopardizing all of our safety, this rule does little more than paint a target on our building for those who wish to do harm."