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New Mexico Firearm Laws

last updated: January 17, 2021

Firearm laws are posted here as a courtesy only and are updated as often as possible. Please check with the actual state website for any additions / revisions to law that may have been made. Up to date information can be found at https://nmonesource.com/nmos/nmsa/en/nav_alpha.do.

New Mexico Constitution Article II, Section 6

No law shall abridge the right of the citizen to keep and bear arms for security and defense, for lawful hunting and recreational use and for other lawful purposes, but nothing herein shall be held to permit the carrying of concealed weapons. No municipality or county shall regulate, in any way, an incident of the right to keep and bear arms.

CHAPTER 12 - MISCELLANEOUS PUBLIC AFFAIRS MATTERS

ARTICLE 10 - All Hazard Emergency Management

§12-10-18 - Emergency Restrictions.
  1. During the existence of a state of emergency, the governor may, by proclamation, prohibit:
    1. any person being on the public streets, in the public parks or at any other public place during the hours proclaimed by the governor to be a period of curfew;
    2. any designated number of persons from assembling or gathering on the public streets, public parks or other open areas, either public or private, or in any public building;
    3. the manufacture, transfer, use, possession or transportation of any device or object designed to explode or produce uncontained combustion;
    4. the transportation, possession or use of combustible, flammable or explosive materials in a glass or uncapped container of any kind except in connection with the normal operation of motor vehicles, normal home use or legitimate commercial use;
    5. the possession of firearms or any other deadly weapon by a person in any place other than his place of residence or business, except for peace officers;
    6. the sale, purchase or dispensing of alcoholic beverages or other commodities or goods designated by the governor;
    7. the use of certain streets or highways by the public; and
    8. other activities the governor reasonably believes should be prohibited to help maintain life, property or the public peace.
  2. Any proclamation issued under this section becomes effective immediately upon its signing by the governor, but the governor shall give public notice of its contents through the public press and other news media. The restrictions may be imposed during times, upon conditions, with exceptions and in areas of the state designated by proclamation of the governor from time to time.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-20-4.3, enacted by Laws 1969, ch. 281, §3; 1978 Comp., §30-20-6, recompiled as §12-10-18 by Laws 2005, ch. 22, §4.

CHAPTER 22 PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ARTICLE 5 - LOCAL SCHOOL BOARDS

§22-5-18 - Local school board authority over who may carry a firearm on school premises. (Effective July 1, 2020.)

Only a local school board has the authority to authorize school security personnel to carry a firearm on any public school premises or other school district property. The decision shall be made in an open meeting and shall be formalized as a policy of the board.

History: Laws 2019, ch. 189, § 1.

ANNOTATIONS

Effective dates. - Laws 2019, ch. 189, § 5 made Laws 2019, ch. 189 effective July 1, 2020.

ARTICLE 8B - CHARTER SCHOOLS

§22-8B-5.4 - Governing body authority over who may carry a firearm on charter school property. (Effective July 1, 2020.)

Only the governing body has the authority to authorize school security personnel to carry a firearm on any charter school premises or other charter school property. The decision shall be made in an open meeting and shall be formalized as a policy of the governing body.

History: Laws 2019, ch. 189, § 2.

ANNOTATIONS

Effective dates. - Laws 2019, ch. 189, § 5 made Laws 2019, ch. 189 effective July 1, 2020.

CHAPTER 29 - LAW ENFORCEMENT

ARTICLE 19 - Concealed Handgun Carry

§29-19-1 - Short Title.

Chapter 29, Article 19 NMSA 1978 may be cited as the "Concealed Handgun Carry Act".

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §1; 2005, ch. 242, §1.

§29-19-2 - Definitions.

As used in the Concealed Handgun Carry Act:

  1. "applicant" means a person seeking a license to carry a concealed handgun;
  2. "caliber" means the diameter of the bore of a handgun;
  3. "category" means whether a handgun is semiautomatic or not semiautomatic;
  4. "concealed handgun" means a loaded handgun that is not visible to the ordinary observations of a reasonable person;
  5. "department" means the department of public safety;
  6. "handgun" means a firearm that will, is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosion and the barrel length of which, not including a revolving, detachable or magazine breech, does not exceed twelve inches; and
  7. "licensee" means a person holding a valid concealed handgun license issued to him by the department.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §2.

§29-19-3 - Date of licensure; period of licensure.

Effective January 1, 2004, the department is authorized to issue concealed handgun licenses to qualified applicants. Original and renewed concealed handgun licenses shall be valid for a period of four years from the date of issuance, unless the license is suspended or revoked.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §3; 2005, ch. 242, §2.

§29-19-4 - Applicant Qualifications.
  1. The department shall issue a concealed handgun license to an applicant who:
    1. is a citizen of the United States;
    2. is a resident of New Mexico or is a member of the armed forces whose permanent duty station is located in New Mexico or is a dependent of such a member;
    3. is twenty-one years of age or older;
    4. is not a fugitive from justice;
    5. has not been convicted of a felony in New Mexico or any other state or pursuant to the laws of the United States or any other jurisdiction;
    6. is not currently under indictment for a felony criminal offense in New Mexico or any other state or pursuant to the laws of the United States or any other jurisdiction;
    7. is not otherwise prohibited by federal law or the law of any other jurisdiction from purchasing or possessing a firearm;
    8. has not been adjudicated mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution;
    9. is not addicted to alcohol or controlled substances; and
    10. has satisfactorily completed a firearms training course approved by the department for the category and the largest caliber of handgun that the applicant wants to be licensed to carry as a concealed handgun.
  2. The department shall deny a concealed handgun license to an applicant who has:
    1. received a conditional discharge, a diversion or a deferment or has been convicted of, pled guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to a misdemeanor offense involving a crime of violence within ten years immediately preceding the application;
    2. been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs within five years immediately preceding the application for a concealed handgun license;
    3. been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving the possession or abuse of a controlled substance within ten years immediately preceding the application; or
    4. been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving assault, battery or battery against a household member.
  3. Firearms training course instructors who are approved by the department shall not be required to complete a firearms training course pursuant to Paragraph (10) of Subsection A of this section.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §4; 2005, ch. 242, §3.

§29-19-5 - Application Form; Screening Of Applicants; Fee; Limitations On Liability.
  1. Effective July 1, 2003, applications for concealed handgun licenses shall be made readily available at locations designated by the department. Applications for concealed handgun licenses shall be completed, under penalty of perjury, on a form designed and provided by the department and shall include:
    1. the applicant's name, current address, date of birth, place of birth, social security number, height, weight, gender, hair color, eye color and driver's license number or other state-issued identification number;
    2. a statement that the applicant is aware of, understands and is in compliance with the requirements for licensure set forth in the Concealed Handgun Carry Act;
    3. a statement that the applicant has been furnished a copy of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act and is knowledgeable of its provisions; and
    4. a conspicuous warning that the application form is executed under penalty of perjury and that a materially false answer or the submission of a materially false document to the department may result in denial or revocation of a concealed handgun license and may subject the applicant to criminal prosecution for perjury as provided in Section 30-25-1 NMSA 1978.
  2. The applicant shall submit to the department:
    1. a completed application form;
    2. a nonrefundable application fee in an amount not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100);
    3. two full sets of fingerprints;
    4. a certified copy of a certificate of completion for a firearms training course approved by the department;
    5. two color photographs of the applicant;
    6. a certified copy of a birth certificate or proof of United States citizenship, if the applicant was not born in the United States; and
    7. proof of residency in New Mexico.
  3. A law enforcement agency may fingerprint an applicant and may charge a reasonable fee.
  4. Upon receipt of the items listed in Subsection B of this section, the department shall make a reasonable effort to determine if an applicant is qualified to receive a concealed handgun license. The department shall conduct an appropriate check of available records and shall forward the applicant's fingerprints to the federal bureau of investigation for a national criminal background check. The department shall comply with the license-issuing requirements set forth in Section 29-19-7 NMSA 1978. However, the department shall suspend or revoke a license if the department receives information that would disqualify an applicant from receiving a concealed handgun license after the thirty-day time period has elapsed.
  5. A state or local government agency shall comply with a request from the department pursuant to the Concealed Handgun Carry Act within thirty days of the request.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §5; 2005, ch. 242, §4.

§29-19-6 - Appeal; License Renewal; Refresher Firearms Training Course; Suspension Or Revocation Of License.
  1. Pursuant to rules adopted by the department, the department, within thirty days after receiving a completed application for a concealed handgun license and the results of a national criminal background check on the applicant, shall:
    1. issue a concealed handgun license to an applicant; or
    2. deny the application on the grounds that the applicant failed to qualify for a concealed handgun license pursuant to the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act.
  2. Information relating to an applicant or to a licensee received by the department or any other law enforcement agency is confidential and exempt from public disclosure unless an order to disclose information is issued by a court of competent jurisdiction. The information shall be made available by the department to a state or local law enforcement agency upon request by the agency.
  3. A concealed handgun license issued by the department shall include:
    1. a color photograph of the licensee;
    2. the licensee's name, address and date of birth;
    3. the expiration date of the concealed handgun license; and
    4. the category and the largest caliber of handgun that the licensee is licensed to carry, with a statement that the licensee is licensed to carry smaller caliber handguns but shall carry only one concealed handgun at any given time.
  4. A licensee shall notify the department within thirty days regarding a change of the licensee's name or permanent address. A licensee shall notify the department within ten days if the licensee's concealed handgun license is lost, stolen or destroyed.
  5. If a concealed handgun license is lost, stolen or destroyed, the license is invalid and the licensee may obtain a duplicate license by furnishing the department a notarized statement that the original license was lost, stolen or destroyed and paying a reasonable fee. If the license is lost or stolen, the licensee shall file a police report with a local law enforcement agency and include the police case number in the notarized statement.
  6. A licensee may renew a concealed handgun license by submitting to the department:
    1. a completed renewal form, under penalty of perjury, designed and provided by the department;
    2. a payment of a seventy-five-dollar ($75.00) renewal fee; and
    3. a certificate of completion of a four-hour refresher firearms training course approved by the department.
  7. The department shall conduct a national criminal records check of a licensee seeking to renew a license. A concealed handgun license shall not be renewed more than sixty days after it has expired. A licensee who fails to renew a concealed handgun license within sixty days after it has expired may apply for a new concealed handgun license pursuant to the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act.
  8. A licensee shall complete a two-hour refresher firearms training course two years after the issuance of an original or renewed license. The refresher course shall be approved by the department and shall be taken twenty-two to twenty-six months after the issuance of an original or renewed license. A certificate of completion shall be submitted to the department no later than thirty days after completion of the course.
  9. The department shall suspend or revoke a concealed handgun license if:
    1. the licensee provided the department with false information on the application form or renewal form for a concealed handgun license;
    2. the licensee did not satisfy the criteria for issuance of a concealed handgun license at the time the license was issued; or
    3. subsequent to receiving a concealed handgun license, the licensee violated a provision of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §6; 2005, ch. 242, §5.

§29-19-7 - Demonstration Of Ability And Knowledge; Course Requirement; Proprietary Interest; Exemptions.
  1. The department shall prepare and publish minimum standards for approved firearms training courses that teach competency with handguns. A firearms training course shall include classroom instruction and range instruction and an actual demonstration by the applicant of his ability to safely use a handgun. An applicant shall not be licensed unless he demonstrates, at a minimum, his ability to use a handgun of .32 caliber. An approved firearms training course shall be a course that is certified or sponsored by a federal or state law enforcement agency, a college, a firearms training school or a nationally recognized organization, approved by the department, that customarily offers firearms training. The firearms training course shall be not less than fifteen hours in length and shall provide instruction regarding:
    1. knowledge of and safe handling of single- and double-action revolvers and semiautomatic handguns;
    2. safe storage of handguns and child safety;
    3. safe handgun shooting fundamentals;
    4. live shooting of a handgun on a firing range;
    5. identification of ways to develop and maintain handgun shooting skills;
    6. federal, state and local criminal and civil laws pertaining to the purchase, ownership, transportation, use and possession of handguns;
    7. techniques for avoiding a criminal attack and how to control a violent confrontation; and
    8. techniques for nonviolent dispute resolution.
  2. Every instructor of an approved firearms training course shall annually file a copy of the course description and proof of certification with the department.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §7.

§29-19-8 - Limitation On License.
  1. Nothing in the Concealed Handgun Carry Act [29-19-1 NMSA 1978] shall be construed as allowing a licensee in possession of a valid concealed handgun license to carry a concealed handgun into or on premises where to do so would be in violation of state or federal law.
  2. Nothing in the Concealed Handgun Carry Act shall be construed as allowing a licensee in possession of a valid concealed handgun license to carry a concealed handgun on school premises, as provided in Section 30-7-2.1 NMSA 1978.
  3. Nothing in the Concealed Handgun Carry Act shall be construed as allowing a licensee in possession of a valid concealed handgun license to carry a concealed handgun on the premises of a preschool.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §8.

§29-19-9 - Possession of license.

A licensee shall have his concealed handgun license in his possession at all times while carrying a concealed handgun.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §9.

§29-19-10 - Validity Of License On Tribal Land.

A concealed handgun license shall not be valid on tribal land, unless authorized by the governing body of an Indian nation, tribe or pueblo.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §10.

§29-19-11 - Validity Of License In A Courthouse Or Court Facility.

A concealed handgun license shall not be valid in a courthouse or court facility, unless authorized by the presiding judicial officer for that courthouse or court facility.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §11.

§29-19-12 - Rules; Department To Administer; Reciprocal Agreements With Other States.

The department shall promulgate rules necessary to implement the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act. The rules shall include:

  1. grounds for the suspension and revocation of concealed handgun licenses issued pursuant to the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act;
  2. provision of authority for a law enforcement officer to confiscate a concealed handgun license when a licensee violates the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act;
  3. provision of authority for a private property owner to disallow the carrying of a concealed handgun on the owner's property;
  4. creation of a sequential numbering system for all concealed handgun licenses issued by the department and display of numbers on issued concealed handgun licenses; and
  5. provision of discretionary state authority for the transfer, recognition or reciprocity of a concealed handgun license issued by another state if the issuing authority for the other state:
    1. includes provisions at least as stringent as or substantially similar to the Concealed Handgun Carry Act;
    2. issues a license or permit with an expiration date printed on the license or permit;
    3. is available to verify the license or permit status for law enforcement purposes within three business days of a request for verification;
    4. has disqualification, suspension and revocation requirements for a concealed handgun license or permit; and
    5. requires that an applicant for a concealed handgun license or permit:
      1. submit to a national criminal history record check;
      2. not be prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to federal or state law; and
      3. satisfactorily complete a firearms safety program that covers deadly force issues, weapons care and maintenance, safe handling and storage of firearms and marksmanship.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §12; 2005, ch. 242, §6.

§29-19-13 - Fund Created.
  1. The "concealed handgun carry fund" is created in the state treasury.
  2. All money received by the department pursuant to the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act shall be deposited by the state treasurer for credit to the concealed handgun carry fund. The state treasurer shall invest the fund as all other state funds are invested, and income from the investment of the fund shall be credited to the fund. Balances remaining at the end of any fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund and may be used to maintain the state's criminal history database.
  3. Money in the concealed handgun carry fund is appropriated to the department to carry out the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 255, §13.

§29-19-14 - Current And Retired Law Enforcement Officers.
  1. An application fee, a renewal fee and a firearms training course are not required for an applicant or licensee who is a certified law enforcement officer pursuant to the Law Enforcement Training Act [29-7-1 NMSA 1978].
  2. A retired law enforcement officer is not required to submit an application fee or a renewal fee if:
    1. the officer was a certified law enforcement officer pursuant to the Law Enforcement Training Act for at least fifteen years prior to retirement; and
    2. the retirement is in good standing as shown by a letter from the agency from which the officer retired.
  3. A retired law enforcement officer who has been retired ten years or less is not required to complete a firearms training course.
  4. A retired law enforcement officer who has been retired for more than ten years shall be required to complete a firearms training course. The officer shall be allowed to attend any local law enforcement agency's firearms qualification course; provided that the officer supplies the officer's own ammunition, handgun, targets and range equipment. A local law enforcement agency shall not be liable under the Tort Claims Act [41-4-1 NMSA 1978] for providing a firearms training course to a retired law enforcement officer pursuant to this subsection.
  5. A retired law enforcement officer's concealed handgun license shall have printed on the license "retired police officer" and shall be valid for a period of five years.

History: Laws 2005, ch. 242, §7.

CHAPTER 30 - CRIMINAL OFFENSES

ARTICLE 2 - Homicide

§30-2-5 - Excusable Homicide.

Homicide is excusable in the following cases:

  1. when committed by accident or misfortune in doing any lawful act, by lawful means, with usual and ordinary caution and without any unlawful intent; or
  2. when committed by accident or misfortune in the heat of passion, upon any sudden and sufficient provocation, or upon a sudden combat, if no undue advantage is taken, nor any dangerous weapon used and the killing is not done in a cruel or unusual manner.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-2-6, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §2-6

§30-2-6 - Justifiable Homicide By Public Officer Or Public Employee.
  1. Homicide is justifiable when committed by a public officer or public employee or those acting by their command and in their aid and assistance:
    1. in obedience to any judgment of a competent court;
    2. when necessarily committed in overcoming actual resistance to the execution of some legal process or to the discharge of any other legal duty;
    3. when necessarily committed in retaking felons who have been rescued or who have escaped or when necessarily committed in arresting felons fleeing from justice; or
    4. when necessarily committed in order to prevent the escape of a felon from any place of lawful custody or confinement.
  2. For the purposes of this section, homicide is necessarily committed when a public officer or public employee has probable cause to believe he or another is threatened with serious harm or deadly force while performing those lawful duties described in this section. Whenever feasible, a public officer or employee should give warning prior to using deadly force.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-2-7, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §2-7; 1989, ch. 222, §1.

§30-2-7 - Justifiable Homicide By Citizen.

Homicide is justifiable when committed by any person in any of the following cases:

  1. when committed in the necessary defense of his life, his family or his property, or in necessarily defending against any unlawful action directed against himself, his wife or family;
  2. when committed in the lawful defense of himself or of another and when there is a reasonable ground to believe a design exists to commit a felony or to do some great personal injury against such person or another, and there is imminent danger that the design will be accomplished; or
  3. when necessarily committed in attempting, by lawful ways and means, to apprehend any person for any felony committed in his presence, or in lawfully suppressing any riot, or in necessarily and lawfully keeping and preserving the peace.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-2-8, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §2-8.

§30-2-8 - When Homicide Is Excusable Or Justifiable Defendant To Be Acquitted.

Whenever any person is prosecuted for a homicide, and upon his trial the killing shall be found to have been excusable or justifiable, the jury shall find such person not guilty and he shall be discharged.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-2-9, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §2-9.

ARTICLE 7 - Weapons And Explosives

§30-7-1 - "Carrying A Deadly Weapon".

"Carrying a deadly weapon" means being armed with a deadly weapon by having it on the person, or in close proximity thereto, so that the weapon is readily accessible for use.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-1, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-1.

§30-7-2 - Unlawful Carrying Of A Deadly Weapon.
  1. Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon consists of carrying a concealed loaded firearm or any other type of deadly weapon anywhere, except in the following cases:
    1. in the person's residence or on real property belonging to him as owner, lessee, tenant or licensee;
    2. in a private automobile or other private means of conveyance, for lawful protection of the person's or another's person or property;
    3. by a peace officer in accordance with the policies of his law enforcement agency who is certified pursuant to the Law Enforcement Training Act [29-7-1 NMSA 1978];
    4. by a peace officer in accordance with the policies of his law enforcement agency who is employed on a temporary basis by that agency and who has successfully completed a course of firearms instruction prescribed by the New Mexico law enforcement academy or provided by a certified firearms instructor who is employed on a permanent basis by a law enforcement agency; or
    5. by a person in possession of a valid concealed handgun license issued to him by the department of public safety pursuant to the provisions of the Concealed Handgun Carry Act [29-19-1 NMSA 1978].
  2. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent the carrying of any unloaded firearm.
  3. Whoever commits unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-2, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-2; 1975, ch. 134, §1; 1985, ch. 174, §1; 2001, ch. 219, §13.

§30-7-2.1 - Unlawful Carrying Of A Deadly Weapon On School Premises.
  1. Unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon on school premises consists of carrying a deadly weapon on school premises except by:
    1. a peace officer;
    2. school security personnel;
    3. a student, instructor or other school-authorized personnel engaged in army, navy, marine corps or air force reserve officer training corps programs or state-authorized hunter safety training instruction;
    4. a person conducting or participating in a school-approved program, class or other activity involving the carrying of a deadly weapon; or
    5. a person older than nineteen years of age on school premises in a private automobile or other private means of conveyance, for lawful protection of the person's or another's person or property.
  2. As used in this section, "school premises" means:
    1. the buildings and grounds, including playgrounds, playing fields and parking areas and any school bus of any public elementary, secondary, junior high or high school in or on which school or school-related activities are being operated under the supervision of a local school board; or
    2. any other public buildings or grounds, including playing fields and parking areas that are not public school property, in or on which public school-related and sanctioned activities are being performed.
  3. Whoever commits unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon on school premises is guilty of a fourth degree felony.

History: Laws 1987, ch. 232, §1; 1989, ch. 285, §1; 1994, ch. 17, §1.

§30-7-2.2 - Unlawful Possession Of A Handgun By A Person; Exceptions; Penalty.
  1. Unlawful possession of a handgun by a person consists of a person knowingly having a handgun in his possession or knowingly transporting a handgun, except when the person is:
    1. in attendance at a hunter's safety course or a handgun safety course;
    2. engaging in the use of a handgun for target shooting at an established range authorized by the governing body of the jurisdiction in which the range is located or in an area where the discharge of a handgun without legal justification is not prohibited by law;
    3. engaging in an organized competition involving the use of a handgun;
    4. participating in or practicing for a performance by an organization that has been granted exemption from federal income tax by the United States commissioner of internal revenue as an organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended or renumbered;
    5. legal hunting or trapping activities;
    6. traveling, with an unloaded handgun in his possession, to or from an activity described in Paragraph (1), (2), (3), (4) or (5) of this subsection; or
    7. on real property under the control of the person's parent, grandparent or legal guardian and the person is being supervised by his parent, grandparent or legal guardian.
  2. A person who commits unlawful possession of a handgun by a person is guilty of a misdemeanor.
  3. As used in this section:
    1. "person" means an individual who is less than nineteen years old; and
    2. "handgun" means a loaded or unloaded pistol, revolver or firearm which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosion and the barrel length of which, not including a revolving, detachable or magazine breech, does not exceed twelve inches.

History: Laws 1994, ch. 22, §2.

§30-7-2.3 - Seizure And Forfeiture Of A Handgun Possessed Or Transported By A Person In Violation Of Unlawful Possession Of A Handgun By A Person.
  1. A handgun is subject to seizure and forfeiture by a law enforcement agency when the handgun is possessed or transported by a person in violation of the offense of unlawful possession of a handgun by a person.
  2. The provisions of the Forfeiture Act [31-27-1 NMSA 1978] apply to the seizure, forfeiture and disposal of a handgun subject to forfeiture pursuant to Subsection A of this section.

History: Laws 1994, ch. 22, §3; 2002, ch. 4, §12.

§30-7-2.4 - Unlawful Carrying Of A Firearm On University Premises; Notice; Penalty.
  1. Unlawful carrying of a firearm on university premises consists of carrying a firearm on university premises except by:
    1. a peace officer;
    2. university security personnel;
    3. a student, instructor or other university-authorized personnel who are engaged in army, navy, marine corps or air force reserve officer training corps programs or a state-authorized hunter safety training program;
    4. a person conducting or participating in a university-approved program, class or other activity involving the carrying of a firearm; or
    5. a person older than nineteen years of age on university premises in a private automobile or other private means of conveyance, for lawful protection of the person's or another's person or property.
  2. A university shall conspicuously post notices on university premises that state that it is unlawful to carry a firearm on university premises.
  3. As used in this section:
    1. "university" means a baccalaureate degree-granting post-secondary educational institution, a community college, a branch community college, a technical-vocational institute and an area vocational school; and
    2. "university premises" means:
      1. the buildings and grounds of a university, including playing fields and parking areas of a university, in or on which university or university-related activities are conducted; or
      2. any other public buildings or grounds, including playing fields and parking areas that are not university property, in or on which university-related and sanctioned activities are performed.
  4. Whoever commits unlawful carrying of a firearm on university premises is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

History: Laws 2003, ch. 253, §1.

§30-7-3 - Unlawful Carrying Of A Firearm In Licensed Liquor Establishments.
  1. Unlawful carrying of a firearm in an establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages consists of carrying a loaded or unloaded firearm on any premises licensed by the regulation and licensing department for the dispensing of alcoholic beverages except:
    1. by a law enforcement officer in the lawful discharge of the officer's duties;
    2. by a law enforcement officer who is certified pursuant to the Law Enforcement Training Act [29-7-1 NMSA 1978] acting in accordance with the policies of the officer's law enforcement agency;
    3. by the owner, lessee, tenant or operator of the licensed premises or the owner's, lessee's, tenant's or operator's agents, including privately employed security personnel during the performance of their duties;
    4. by a person carrying a concealed handgun who is in possession of a valid concealed handgun license for that gun pursuant to the Concealed Handgun Carry Act [29-19-1 NMSA 1978] on the premises of:
      1. a licensed establishment that does not sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises; or
      2. a restaurant licensed to sell only beer and wine that derives no less than sixty percent of its annual gross receipts from the sale of food for consumption on the premises, unless the restaurant has a sign posted, in a conspicuous location at each public entrance, prohibiting the carrying of firearms, or the person is verbally instructed by the owner or manager that the carrying of a firearm is not permitted in the restaurant;
    5. by a person in that area of the licensed premises usually and primarily rented on a daily or short-term basis for sleeping or residential occupancy, including hotel or motel rooms;
    6. by a person on that area of a licensed premises primarily used for vehicular traffic or parking; or
    7. for the purpose of temporary display, provided that the firearm is:
      1. made completely inoperative before it is carried onto the licensed premises and remains inoperative while it is on the licensed premises; and
      2. under the control of the licensee or an agent of the licensee while the firearm is on the licensed premises.
  2. Whoever commits unlawful carrying of a firearm in an establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages is guilty of a fourth degree felony.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-2.1, enacted by Laws 1975, ch. 149, §1; 1977, ch. 160, §1; 1999, ch. 156, §1; 2007, ch. 158, §1; 2010, ch. 106, §1.

§30-7-4 - Negligent Use Of A Deadly Weapon.
  1. Negligent use of a deadly weapon consists of:
    1. discharging a firearm into any building or vehicle or so as to knowingly endanger a person or his property;
    2. carrying a firearm while under the influence of an intoxicant or narcotic;
    3. endangering the safety of another by handling or using a firearm or other deadly weapon in a negligent manner; or
    4. discharging a firearm within one hundred fifty yards of a dwelling or building, not including abandoned or vacated buildings on public lands during hunting seasons, without the permission of the owner or lessees thereof.
  2. The provisions of Paragraphs (1), (3) and (4) of Subsection A of this section shall not apply to a peace officer or other public employee who is required or authorized by law to carry or use a firearm in the course of his employment and who carries, handles, uses or discharges a firearm while lawfully engaged in carrying out the duties of his office or employment.
  3. The exceptions from criminal liability provided for in Subsection B of this section shall not preclude or affect civil liability for the same conduct.

Whoever commits negligent use of a deadly weapon is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-3, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-3; 1977, ch. 266, §1; 1979, ch. 79, §1; 1993, ch. 139, §1.

§30-7-5 - Dangerous Use Of Explosives.

Dangerous use of explosives consists of maliciously exploding, attempting to explode or placing any explosive with the intent to injure, intimidate or terrify another, or to damage another's property.

Whoever commits dangerous use of explosives is guilty of a third degree felony.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-4, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-4.

§30-7-6 - Negligent Use Of Explosives.

Negligent use of explosives consists of negligently exploding, attempting to explode or placing any explosive in such a manner as to result in injury to another or to property of another, or in the probability of such injury.

Whoever commits negligent use of explosives is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-5, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-5.

§30-7-7 - Unlawful Sale, Possession Or Transportation Of Explosives.

Unlawful sale, possession or transportation of explosives consists of:

  1. knowingly selling or possessing any explosive or causing such explosive to be transported without having plainly marked in large letters in a conspicuous place on the box or package containing such explosive the name and explosive character thereof and the date of manufacture. For the purpose of this subsection, the term "explosive" is as defined in Section 2 [30-7-18 NMSA 1978] of the Explosives Act, but shall not include:
    1. explosive materials in medicine and medicinal agents in the forms prescribed by the official United States pharmacopoeia or the national formulary;
    2. small arms ammunition and components thereof;
    3. commercially manufactured black powder in quantities not to exceed fifty pounds, percussion caps, safety and pyrotechnic fuses, quills, quick and slow matches and friction primers intended to be used solely for sporting, recreational or cultural purposes as defined in Section 921(a)(16) [§921(a)(4)] of Title 18 of the United States Code, or in antique devices as exempted from the term "destructive device" in Section 921(a)(4) [§921(a)(16)] of Title 18 of the United States Code; or
    4. explosive materials transported in compliance with the regulations of the United States department of transportation and agencies thereof; or
  2. knowingly transporting or taking any explosive upon or into any vehicle belonging to a common carrier transporting passengers. For the purpose of this subsection, the term "explosives" is as defined in Section 2 of the Explosives Act, but shall not include:
    1. explosive materials in medicines and medicinal agents in the forms prescribed by the official United States pharmacopoeia or the national formulary;
    2. small arms ammunition or components thereof; or
    3. explosive materials transported in compliance with the regulations of the United States department of transportation and agencies thereof.

Whoever commits unlawful sale, possession or transportation of explosives as set forth in Subsection A of this section is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

Whoever commits unlawful transportation of explosives as set forth in Subsection B of this section is guilty of a fourth degree felony.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-6, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-6; 1981, ch. 246, §7.

§30-7-7.1 - Unlawful sale of a firearm without a background check.
  1. Unlawful sale of a firearm without a background check consists of the sale of a firearm without conducting a federal instant background check, subject to the following:
    1. if the buyer of a firearm is not a natural person, then each natural person who is authorized by the buyer to possess the firearm after the sale shall undergo a federal instant background check before taking possession of the firearm;
    2. a prospective firearm seller who does not hold a current and valid federal firearms license issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 923(a) shall arrange for a person who does hold that license to conduct the federal instant background check. A federal firearms licensee shall not unreasonably refuse to perform a background check pursuant to this paragraph; and
    3. a person who holds a current and valid federal firearms license issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 923(a) may charge a fee not to exceed thirty-five dollars ($35.00) for conducting a background check pursuant to this section.
  2. The provisions of Subsection A of this section do not apply to the sale of a firearm:
    1. by or to a person who holds a current and valid federal firearms license issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 923(a);
    2. to a law enforcement agency;
    3. between two law enforcement officers authorized to carry a firearm and certified pursuant to federal law or the Law Enforcement Training Act [Chapter 29, Article 7 NMSA 1978]; or
    4. between immediate family members.
  3. As used in this section:
    1. "consideration" means anything of value exchanged between the parties to a sale;
    2. "federal instant background check" means a background check that meets the requirements of 18 U.S.C. Section 922(t) and that does not indicate that a sale to the person receiving the firearm would violate 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g) or 18 U.S.C. Section 922(n) or state law;
    3. "firearm" means any weapon that will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosion; the frame or receiver of any such weapon; or any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; and includes any handgun, rifle or shotgun; but shall not include an antique firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. Section 921(16), a powder-actuated tool or other device designed to be used for construction purposes, an emergency flare or a firearm in permanently inoperable condition;
    4. "immediate family member" means a spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, great-grandchild, niece, nephew, first cousin, aunt or uncle; and
    5. "sale" means the delivery or passing of ownership, possession or control of a firearm for a fee or other consideration, but does not include temporary possession or control of a firearm provided to a customer by the proprietor of a licensed business in the conduct of that business.
  4. Each party to an unlawful sale in violation of this section may be separately charged for the same sale.
  5. Each firearm sold contrary to the provisions of this section constitutes a separate offense under Subsection A of this section.
  6. Two or more offenses may be charged in the same complaint, information or indictment and shall be punished as separate offenses.
  7. Whoever violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

History: Laws 2019, ch. 45, § 1.

ANNOTATIONS

Effective dates. - Laws 2019, ch. 45, § 2 made Laws 2019, ch. 45, § 1 effective July 1, 2019.

§30-7-8 - Unlawful Possession Of Switchblades.

Unlawful possession of switchblades consists of any person, either manufacturing, causing to be manufactured, possessing, displaying, offering, selling, lending, giving away or purchasing any knife which has a blade which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife, or any knife having a blade which opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by any outward or centrifugal thrust or movement.

Whoever commits unlawful possession of switchblades is guilty of a petty misdemeanor.

History: 1953 Comp., §40A-7-7, enacted by Laws 1963, ch. 303, §7-7.

§30-7-9 - Repealed.
§30-7-10 - Short Title.

Sections 30-7-10 through 30-7-15 NMSA 1978 may be cited as the "Bus Passenger Safety Act".

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §1.

§30-7-11 - Definitions.

As used in the Bus Passenger Safety Act [30-7-10 NMSA 1978]:

  1. "bus transportation company" or "company" means any person, groups of persons or corporation providing for-hire transportation to passengers or cargo by bus upon the highways in New Mexico. The term also includes buses owned or operated by or for local public bodies, school districts, municipalities and by public corporations, boards and commissions; and
  2. "bus" means any passenger bus, coach or other motor vehicle having a seating capacity of not less than fifteen passengers operated by a bus transportation company when used for the purpose of carrying passengers or cargo for hire.

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §2.

§30-7-12 - Prohibitions; Penalties.
  1. It is unlawful to seize or exercise control of a bus by force or violence or by threat of force or violence. Whoever violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a third degree felony.
  2. It is unlawful to intimidate, threaten or assault any driver, attendant, guard or passenger of a bus with the intent of seizing or exercising control of a bus. Whoever violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a fourth degree felony.

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §3.

§30-7-13 - Carrying Weapons Prohibited.
  1. It is unlawful for any person without prior approval from the company to board or attempt to board a bus while in possession of a firearm or other deadly weapon upon his person or effects and readily accessible to him while on the bus. Any person who violates the provisions of this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor.
  2. Subsection A of this section does not apply to duly elected or appointed law enforcement officers or commercial security personnel in the lawful discharge of their duties.

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §4.

§30-7-14 - Weapon Detection.

A bus transportation company may employ any reasonable means, including mechanical, electronic or x-ray devices to detect concealed weapons, explosives or other hazardous material in baggage or upon the person of a passenger. The company may take possession of any concealed weapon, explosive or other hazardous material discovered and shall turn such items over to law enforcement officers.

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §5.

§30-7-15 - Weapons; Transporting.

Any person wishing to transport a firearm or other deadly weapon on a bus may do so only in accordance with regulations established by the company; provided that any firearm or deadly weapon must be transported in a compartment which is not accessible to passengers while the bus is moving.

History: Laws 1979, ch. 376, §6.

§30-7-16 - (2019) Firearms Or Destructive Devices; Receipt, Transportation Or Possession By A Felon; Penalty.
  1. It is unlawful for the following persons to receive, transport or possess a firearm or destructive device in this state:
    1. a felon;
    2. a person subject to an order of protection pursuant to Section 40-13-5 or 40-13A-5 NMSA 1978; or
    3. a person convicted of any of the following crimes:
      1. battery against a household member pursuant to Section 30-3-15 NMSA 1978;
      2. criminal damage to property of a household member pursuant to Section 30-3-18 NMSA 1978;
      3. a first offense of stalking pursuant to Section 30-3A-3 NMSA 1978; or
      4. a crime listed in 18 U.S.C. 921.
  2. A felon found in possession of a firearm shall be guilty of a third degree felony and shall be sentenced in accordance with the provisions of the Criminal Sentencing Act.
  3. Any person subject to an order of protection pursuant to Section 40-13-5 or 40-13A-5 NMSA 1978 or convicted of a crime listed in Paragraph (3) of Subsection A of this section who receives, transports or possesses a firearm or destructive device is guilty of a misdemeanor.
  4. As used in this section:
    1. except as provided in Paragraph (2) of this subsection, "destructive device" means:
      1. any explosive, incendiary or poison gas: 1) bomb; 2) grenade; 3) rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces; 4) missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-fourth ounce; 5) mine; or 6) similar device;
      2. any type of weapon by whatever name known that will, or that may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, the barrel or barrels of which have a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter, except a shotgun or shotgun shell that is generally recognized as particularly suitable for sporting purposes; or
      3. any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into a destructive device as defined in this paragraph and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled;
    2. the term "destructive device" does not include any device that is neither designed nor redesigned for use as a weapon or any device, although originally designed for use as a weapon, that is redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety or similar device;
    3. "felon" means a person convicted of a felony offense by a court of the United States or of any state or political subdivision thereof and:
      1. less than ten years have passed since the person completed serving a sentence or period of probation for the felony conviction, whichever is later;
      2. the person has not been pardoned for the felony conviction by the proper authority; and
      3. the person has not received a deferred sentence; and
    4. "firearm" means any weapon that will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosion or the frame or receiver of any such weapon."

History: Laws 1981, ch. 225, §1; 1987, ch. 202, §1; 2001, ch. 89, §1. Amended 2018 Chapter 74; Amended 2019 Chapter 253 effective July 1, 2019; Amended 2020 Chapter 54

CHAPTER 40 - DOMESTIC AFFAIRS

ARTICLE 17 - Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order

§40-17-1 - (2020) Short Title

Sections 1 through 13 [40-17-1 to 40-17-13 NMSA 1978] of this act may be cited as the "Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act".

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 1.

Effective dates. - Laws 2020, ch. 5 contained no effective date provision, but, pursuant to N.M. Const., art. IV, § 23, was effective May 20, 2020, 90 days after adjournment of the legislature.

§40-17-2 - (2020) Definitions

As used in the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act:

  1. "court" means the district court in the county in which the respondent resides;
  2. "extreme risk firearm protection order" means either a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order or a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order granted pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act;
  3. "firearm" means any weapon that is designed to expel a projectile by an explosion or the frame or receiver of any such weapon;
  4. "law enforcement agency" means the police department of any city or town, the sheriff's office of any county, the New Mexico state police and a district attorney's office in the state and the office of the attorney general;
  5. "law enforcement officer" means a public official or public officer vested by law with the power to maintain order, to make arrests for crime or to detain persons suspected of committing a crime, whether that duty extends to all crimes or is limited to specific crimes and includes an attorney employed by a district attorney or the attorney general;
  6. "one-year extreme risk firearm protection order" means an extreme risk firearm protection order granted for up to one year following a hearing pursuant to the provisions of Section 7 [40-17-7 NMSA 1978] of the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act;
  7. "petitioner" means a law enforcement officer who files an extreme risk firearm protection order petition;
  8. "reporting party" means a person who requests that a law enforcement officer file a petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order and includes a spouse, former spouse, parent, present or former stepparent, present or former parent-in-law, grandparent, grandparent-in-law, co-parent of a child, child, person with whom a respondent has or had a continuing personal relationship, employer or public or private school administrator;
  9. "respondent" means the person identified in or subject to an extreme risk firearm protection order petition; and
  10. "temporary extreme risk firearm protection order" means an extreme risk firearm protection order issued prior to a hearing pursuant to the provisions of Section 6 [40-17-6 NMSA 1978] of the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 2.

§40-17-3 - (2020) Forbearance of costs associated with extreme risk firearm protection orders.

A reporting party who requests that a petitioner seek an extreme risk firearm protection order shall not be required to bear the cost of:

  1. the filing, issuance or service of a petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order;
  2. the filing, issuance or service of a warrant;
  3. the filing, issuance or service of a witness subpoena;
  4. service of an extreme risk firearm protection order;
  5. obtaining law enforcement reports or photographs or copies of photographs relating to the allegations in the petition; or
  6. any cost associated with the confiscation, storage or destruction of a firearm.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 3.

§40-17-4 - (2020) Extreme risk firearm protection orders; venue.

Proceedings pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act shall be filed, heard and determined in the district court for the county in which the respondent resides.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 4.

§40-17-5 - (2020) Petition for extreme risk firearm protection order; contents.
  1. A petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order shall be filed only by a law enforcement officer employed by a law enforcement agency; provided that, if the respondent is a law enforcement officer, the petition shall be filed by the district attorney or the attorney general.
  2. A petitioner may file a petition with the court requesting an extreme risk firearm protection order that shall enjoin the respondent from having in the respondent's possession, custody or control any firearm and shall further enjoin the respondent from purchasing, receiving or attempting to purchase, possess or receive any firearm while the order is in effect.
  3. If a law enforcement officer declines to file a requested petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order, the law enforcement officer shall file with the sheriff of the county in which the respondent resides a notice that the law enforcement officer is declining to file a petition pursuant to this section.
  4. A law enforcement officer shall file a petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order upon receipt of credible information from a reporting party that gives the agency or officer probable cause to believe that a respondent poses a significant danger of causing imminent personal injury to self or others by having in the respondent's custody or control or by purchasing, possessing or receiving a firearm.
  5. A petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order shall state the specific statements, actions or facts that support the belief that the respondent poses a significant danger of causing imminent personal injury to self or others by having in the respondent's custody or control or by purchasing, possessing or receiving a firearm.
  6. A petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order shall be made under oath and shall be accompanied by a sworn affidavit signed by the reporting party setting forth specific facts supporting the order.
  7. A petition for an extreme risk firearm protection order shall include:
    1. the name and address of the reporting party;
    2. the name and address of the respondent;
    3. a description of the number, types and locations of firearms or ammunition that the petitioner believes the respondent has custody of, controls, owns or possesses;
    4. a description of the relationship between the reporting party and the respondent; and
    5. a description of any lawsuit, complaint, petition, restraining order, injunction or other legal action between the reporting party and the respondent.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 5.

§40-17-6 - (2020) Petition for temporary extreme risk firearm protection order; temporary orders; proceedings.
  1. Upon the filing of a petition pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act, the court may enter a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order if the court finds from specific facts shown by the petition that there is probable cause to believe that the respondent poses a significant danger of causing imminent personal injury to self or others by having in the respondent's custody or control or by purchasing, possessing or receiving a firearm before notice can be served and a hearing held.
  2. If the court finds probable cause pursuant to Subsection A of this section, the court shall issue a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order enjoining the respondent from having in the respondent's possession, custody or control a firearm and shall further enjoin the respondent from purchasing, receiving or attempting to purchase or receive a firearm while the order is in effect.
  3. The court shall conduct a hearing within ten days of the issuance of a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order to determine if a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order should be issued pursuant to this section.
  4. A temporary extreme risk firearm protection order shall include:
    1. a statement of the grounds supporting the issuance of the order;
    2. the date and time the order was issued;
    3. a statement that the order shall continue until the earlier of ten days or such time as a court considers the petition at a hearing, unless an extension is granted at the request of the respondent pursuant to Subsection E of this section;
    4. the address of the court that issued the order and in which any responsive pleading should be filed; and
    5. the date and time of the scheduled hearing, to be held within ten days of the issuance of the order.
  5. The court may continue the hearing at the request of the respondent, but the hearing shall be set within thirty days of the respondent's request for continuance.
  6. A temporary extreme risk firearm protection order shall be served by the petitioner along with supporting documents that formed the basis of the order, the notice of hearing and the petition for a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order.
  7. If the court declines to issue a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order, the court shall enter an order that includes the reasons for the denial.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 6.

§40-17-6 - (2020) Petition for temporary extreme risk firearm protection order; temporary orders; proceedings.
  1. Upon the filing of a petition pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act, the court may enter a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order if the court finds from specific facts shown by the petition that there is probable cause to believe that the respondent poses a significant danger of causing imminent personal injury to self or others by having in the respondent's custody or control or by purchasing, possessing or receiving a firearm before notice can be served and a hearing held.
  2. If the court finds probable cause pursuant to Subsection A of this section, the court shall issue a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order enjoining the respondent from having in the respondent's possession, custody or control a firearm and shall further enjoin the respondent from purchasing, receiving or attempting to purchase or receive a firearm while the order is in effect.
  3. The court shall conduct a hearing within ten days of the issuance of a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order to determine if a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order should be issued pursuant to this section.
  4. A temporary extreme risk firearm protection order shall include:
    1. a statement of the grounds supporting the issuance of the order;
    2. the date and time the order was issued;
    3. a statement that the order shall continue until the earlier of ten days or such time as a court considers the petition at a hearing, unless an extension is granted at the request of the respondent pursuant to Subsection E of this section;
    4. the address of the court that issued the order and in which any responsive pleading should be filed; and
    5. the date and time of the scheduled hearing, to be held within ten days of the issuance of the order.
  5. The court may continue the hearing at the request of the respondent, but the hearing shall be set within thirty days of the respondent's request for continuance.
  6. A temporary extreme risk firearm protection order shall be served by the petitioner along with supporting documents that formed the basis of the order, the notice of hearing and the petition for a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order.
  7. If the court declines to issue a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order, the court shall enter an order that includes the reasons for the denial.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 6.

§40-17-7 - (2020) Hearings on petition; grounds for issuance; contents of order.

In determining whether grounds for any extreme risk firearm protection order exist, the court shall consider, at a minimum, the following:

  1. any recent act or threat of violence by the respondent against self or others, regardless of whether the act or threat involved a firearm;
  2. a pattern of acts or threats of violence by the respondent within the past twelve months, including acts or threats of violence against self or others;
  3. the respondent's mental health history;
  4. the respondent's abuse of controlled substances or alcohol;
  5. the respondent's previous violations of any court order;
  6. previous extreme risk firearm protection orders issued against the respondent;
  7. the respondent's criminal history, including arrests and convictions for violent felony offenses, violent misdemeanor offenses, crimes involving domestic violence or stalking;
  8. the respondent's history of the use, attempted use or threatened use of physical violence against another person; of stalking another person; or of cruelty to animals; and
  9. any recent acquisition or attempts at acquisition of a firearm by the respondent.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 7.

§40-17-8 - (2020) One-year extreme risk firearm protection order; grounds for issuance; contents of order; termination; expiration; renewal of orders.
  1. If, after hearing the matter, the court finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the respondent poses a significant danger of causing imminent personal injury to self or others by having in the respondent's custody or control or by purchasing, possessing or receiving a firearm, the court shall issue a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order.
  2. A one-year extreme risk firearm protection order shall include:
    1. a statement of the grounds supporting the issuance of the order;
    2. the date and time the order was issued;
    3. the date and time the order expires;
    4. information pertaining to any recommendation by the court for mental health or substance abuse evaluations, if applicable;
    5. the address of the court that issued the order; and
    6. notice that the respondent is entitled to request termination of the order prior to the expiration of the order.
  3. If the court declines to issue a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order, the court shall state in writing the reasons for the court's denial and shall order the return of any firearms to the respondent.
  4. A respondent may request that the court terminate a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order at any time prior to the expiration of the order.
  5. At any time not less than one month prior to the expiration of a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order, a petitioner may petition the court to extend the order. Each extension of the order shall not exceed one year. A petition filed pursuant to this subsection shall comply with the provisions of Subsections E and F of Section 5 [40-17-5 NMSA 1978] of the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act and shall be served on the respondent as provided in Section 9 [40-17-9 NMSA 1978] of that act.
  6. A one-year extreme risk firearm protection order is a final, immediately appealable order.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 8.

§40-17-9 - (2020) Service of extreme risk firearm protection orders.

A one-year extreme risk firearm protection order issued pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act shall be personally served upon the respondent by the sheriff's office in the county in which the respondent resides; provided that if the respondent resides in a city or town that has a police department, the police department shall serve the order.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 9.

§40-17-10 - (2020) Relinquishment of firearms.
  1. A respondent who receives a temporary or one-year extreme risk firearm protection order shall relinquish all firearms in the respondent's possession, custody or control or subject to the respondent's possession, custody or control in a safe manner to a law enforcement officer, a law enforcement agency or a federal firearms licensee within forty-eight hours of service of the order or sooner at the discretion of the court.
  2. A law enforcement officer, law enforcement agency or federal firearms licensee that takes temporary possession of a firearm pursuant to this section shall:
    1. prepare a receipt identifying all firearms that have been relinquished or taken;
    2. provide a copy of the receipt to the respondent;
    3. provide a copy of the receipt to the petitioner within seventy-two hours of taking possession of the firearms;
    4. file the original receipt with the court that issued the temporary or one-year extreme risk firearm protection order within seventy-two hours of taking possession of the firearms; and
    5. ensure that the law enforcement agency retains a copy of the receipt.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 10.

§40-17-11 - (2020) Penalties.

A person who fails to relinquish, or who possesses or has custody or control over, any firearm or who purchases, receives or attempts to purchase, possess or receive any firearm, in violation of a temporary extreme risk firearm protection order or a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable pursuant to Section 31-19-1 NMSA 1978.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 11.

§40-17-12 - (2020) Extreme risk firearm protection order; reporting of orders; availability of data.
  1. The clerk of the court shall provide a copy of a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order or temporary extreme risk firearm protection order issued pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act to any law enforcement agency designated to provide information to the national instant criminal background check system.
  2. The clerk of the court shall forward a copy of any order issued, renewed or terminated pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act to the petitioner and to the law enforcement agency specified in Subsection A of this section.
  3. Upon receipt of a copy of a one-year extreme risk firearm protection order or temporary extreme risk firearm protection order, the law enforcement agency specified in Subsection A of this section shall enter the order into:
    1. the national instant criminal background check system;
    2. all federal or state computer-based systems and databases used by law enforcement or others to identify prohibited purchasers of firearms; and
    3. all computer-based criminal intelligence information systems and databases available in this state used by law enforcement agencies.
  4. An extreme risk firearm protection order shall remain in each state system for the period stated in the order. Entry into the computer-based criminal intelligence information system constitutes notice to all law enforcement agencies of the existence of the order. The extreme risk firearm protection order shall be fully enforceable in any county, city or town in the state.
  5. Upon the expiration of or upon receiving notice of the termination of an extreme risk firearm protection order issued pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act, the law enforcement agency specified in Subsection A of this section shall promptly remove the order from any state computer-based system into which it was entered pursuant to Subsection C of this section and shall notify the national instant criminal background check system and all federal computer-based systems and databases used by law enforcement or others to identify prohibited purchasers of firearms.
  6. Following the expiration or termination of an order issued pursuant to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act and upon written request, the law enforcement agency specified in Subsection A of this section shall provide a sworn affidavit to the respondent affirming that the information contained within the order has been removed from all state databases and systems identified in Subsection C of this section and any other state databases into which information about the order was entered and that the law enforcement agency has notified the national instant criminal background check system and all federal computer-based systems and databases used by law enforcement or others to identify prohibited purchasers of firearms. The affidavit shall be provided to the respondent within five days of the receipt of the request.
  7. If any extreme risk firearm protection order is terminated before its expiration date, the clerk of the court shall forward a copy of the termination order to the office of the attorney general and the petitioner.
  8. Aggregate statistical data indicating the number of extreme risk firearm protection orders issued, renewed, denied or terminated shall be maintained by the issuing court and the administrative office of the courts and shall be available to the public upon request.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 12.

§40-17-13 - (2020) Extreme risk firearm protection orders; firearms return; disposition.
  1. Any firearm relinquished in accordance with the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order Act shall be returned to the respondent within ten days following the expiration or termination of an extreme risk firearm protection order.
  2. A respondent shall not be required to acquire any court order granting the return of relinquished firearms.
  3. The law enforcement agency in possession of the firearms shall conduct a national criminal records check and shall return the firearms if the agency determines that the respondent is not prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to state or federal law.
  4. Upon written request of the respondent, the law enforcement agency storing a firearm shall transfer possession of the respondent's firearm to a federally licensed firearms dealer or lawful private party purchaser designated by the respondent; provided that the transfer is the result of a sale, that the transferee is the actual owner of the firearm thereafter and, except in the case of a federally licensed firearms dealer, the law enforcement agency has conducted a national criminal records check and determined that the transferee is not prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to state or federal law.
  5. No fee shall be charged for background checks required pursuant to Subsections C and D of this section.
  6. The law enforcement agency transferring possession of a firearm to a transferee shall notify the transferee that it is unlawful to transfer or return the firearm to the respondent while the extreme risk firearm protection order is in effect. A transferee who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be punished pursuant to Section 31-19-1 NMSA 1978.

History: Laws 2020, ch. 5, § 13.

New Mexico Administrative Code

TITLE 10 - PUBLIC SAFETY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

CHAPTER 8 - Weapons And Explosives

Part 2 - Carrying Concealed Handguns

§10.8.2.1 - Issuing Agency:

Department of Public Safety.

[10.8.2.1 NMAC N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.2 - Scope:

This rule applies to all persons who wish to carry a concealed handgun or to become an approved instructor in New Mexico.

[10.8.2.2 NMAC N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.3 - Statutory Authority:

NMSA1978 Section 29-19-12.

[10.8.2.3 NMAC N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.4 - Duration:

Permanent.

[10.8.2.4 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.5 - Effective Date:

November 26, 2003, unless a later date is cited at the end of a section.

[10.8.2.5 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.6 - Objective:

The purpose of this rule is to implement the Concealed Handgun Carry act by establishing requirements and procedures for issuing licenses to carry concealed handguns and approving instructors and firearms training courses.

[10.8.2.6 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.7 - Definitions:

In addition to the definitions in NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-2, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used in this rule:

  1. act means the Concealed Handgun Carry Act, NMSA 1978 Sections 29-19-1 et seq.;
  2. approved instructor means a person to whom the department has issued a permit to provide all or any part of classroom and/or firing range instruction;
  3. controlled substance has the meaning given in the New Mexico Controlled Substances Act or a similar act of any other jurisdiction;
  4. conviction , when used in connection with a misdemeanor offense involving driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, has the meaning given in NMSA 1978 Section 66-8-102;
  5. court means any federal, state, county, municipal, or tribal court;
  6. instructor applicant means a person seeking a permit as an approved instructor;
  7. peace officer has the meaning given in NMSA 1978 Section 30-1-12;
  8. person means an individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint venture, or any legal or commercial entity;
  9. respondent means, in the context of 10.8.2.26 NMAC, an applicant, instructor applicant, approved instructor, or licensee;
  10. retired peace officer means a New Mexico resident who has retired in good standing from any law enforcement agency with at least fifteen years as a certified police officer or by work related disability;
  11. revocation or revoked means the involuntary permanent termination of a license or permit by the department for cause;
  12. secretary means the secretary of the department of public safety or his designee;
  13. suspended or suspension means the involuntary termination of a license or permit by the department for cause for a specified period of time.

[10.8.2.7 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.8 - Filings And Correspondence:
  1. To the department.
    1. A person shall address all filings and correspondence relating to hearings held pursuant to this rule to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, Post Office Box 1628, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504-1628, Attention: Office of Legal Affairs-Concealed Handgun Section.
    2. A person shall address all filings and correspondence relating to licenses, instructor approval, and all other matters to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, Concealed Handgun Licensing Unit, 6301 Indian School Road NE, Suite 310, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110.
  2. From the department. The department will send all legal notices and orders required by the act and this rule by certified mail to the last address reported to the department by an applicant, instructor applicant, licensee, or approved instructor; the department will send all other correspondence by regular mail. If a legal notice or order is returned to the department as undeliverable, the department may publish the legal notice or order once in a newspaper of general circulation in the state. The department may take the action proposed in the legal notice or order on the 31st day after the date legal notice is published.

[10.8.2.8 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.9 - Incomplete Filings:

The department may refuse to consider an incomplete filing. A filing will be considered incomplete if:

  1. it is unsigned;
  2. documents that are required to be certified or notarized are not certified or notarized;
  3. it omits any information required by law or department rule, form, or order;
  4. it is not filed on a department-prescribed form and a form exists for that purpose; or
  5. the required fee is not filed with the application or is not in the form prescribed in Subsection B of 10.8.2.11 NMAC.

[10.8.2.9 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.10 - Department-Prescribed Forms:
  1. Use required. The department has prescribed forms to carry out certain requirements of this rule. The most current version of a department form must be used when a form exists for that purpose, unless the department waives this requirement.
  2. How to obtain. Department-prescribed forms may be obtained:
    1. at New Mexico state police offices throughout the state; or
    2. from the department's website at www.dps.nm.org.

[10.8.2.10 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.11 - Application Requirements For A License:
  1. Filing. An applicant must file an application for a license with the department in person or by mail.
  2. Fees. All fees required by the act or this rule to be paid to the department shall be in the form of a personal check, cashiers check, certified check, or money order made payable to the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. The department will not accept cash.
  3. Completeness. All applications must be complete and legible.
    1. If an application is incomplete, the department will return the application and a letter outlining the deficiencies in the application to the applicant by regular mail. The applicant will have 45 calendar days from the date the letter is postmarked to cure the deficiencies. If the applicant fails to return the application to the department within 45 calendar days from the date the letter was postmarked, the application will be deemed abandoned, the application file will be closed, and all fees paid will be forfeited to the state. The department will send a letter notifying the applicant that the application has been deemed abandoned, the file has been closed, and all fees paid have been forfeited to the state.
    2. If the applicant returns the application to the department within 45 calendar days from the date the initial letter was postmarked but the application is still deficient, the department will return the application and a second letter outlining the deficiencies in the application to the applicant by regular mail. The applicant will have 30 calendar days from the date the second letter is postmarked to cure the deficiencies. If the applicant fails to return the application to the department within 30 calendar days from the date the second letter was postmarked, or returns the application but it is still deficient, the application will be deemed abandoned, the application file will be closed, and all fees paid will be forfeited to the state. The department will send a letter notifying the applicant that the application has been deemed abandoned, the file has been closed, and all fees paid have been forfeited to the state.
    3. An applicant may contact the concealed carry unit by telephone to inquire on the status of their application. Agents may provide the information to the applicant after the applicant has supplied sufficient identifiers such as address, social security number, DOB, etc.

[10.8.2.11 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.12 - Other Required Documents For A License:

In addition to the application form, each applicant shall file copies of other documents required by the act or this rule with the department. The copies must clearly show the name of the applicant and all signatures and pertinent information. The department will not accept copies that are too dark, too light, blurry, or otherwise unreadable. An applicant may request the return of original documents by stating so and enclosing a self addressed stamped envelope.

  1. Proof of citizenship. In accordance with Paragraph 6 of Subsection B of NMSA1978 Section 29-19-5, an applicant may prove United States citizenship by filing a certified copy of a birth certificate or proof of United States citizenship, if the applicant was not born in the United States.
  2. Proof of residency.
    1. An applicant may prove residency in New Mexico by filing a copy of a valid New Mexico driver's license or personal identification card issued by the motor vehicle division of the taxation and revenue department and one of the following:
      1. proof that the applicant is registered to vote in New Mexico;
      2. a New Mexico income tax return filed within the last year;
      3. a United States armed forces identification card and orders of permanent duty station in New Mexico; or
      4. other proof acceptable to the department.
    2. Possession by an applicant of a driver's license issued by another state shall create a rebuttable presumption of residency in such other state.
  3. Proof of age. An applicant may prove that he or she is 21or more years of age by filing:
    1. a copy of a valid government-issued identification card stating the person's age, and
    2. a certified copy of his or her birth certificate.
  4. Proof of handgun competency. Pursuant to Paragraph (4) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5, an applicant shall prove that he or she can competently and safely fire a handgun by filing a certified copy of a certificate of completion for a firearms training course approved by the department issued by an approved instructor not more than 90 calendar days prior to the date the application is filed.
    1. Current certified law enforcement officers employed by a law enforcement agency and residing in New Mexico are not required to attend a civilian firearms training course.
    2. Law enforcement officers who are residents of New Mexico and have retired in good standing within the previous ten years prior to applying for a license are not required to attend a firearms training course.
    3. Law enforcement officers who have been retired longer than ten years at time of application are required to attend a firearms course pursuant to the act.
    4. A department approved concealed handgun carry instructor shall indicate on the application the category and highest caliber they wish to carry.
  5. Photographs. To streamline the application process, the department may obtain digital color photographs of an applicant from the motor vehicle division of the taxation and revenue department or another government agency. If the department requests an applicant to provide photographs pursuant to Paragraph (5) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5, the photographs shall be in color, be a minimum of 3 inches by 3 inches, and be a full frontal view of the applicant without a hat, sunglasses, or any other item that would obstruct or alter the features of the applicant. The department will not accept photographs that are too dark, too bright, fuzzy, out of focus, or unclear.
  6. Fingerprints. All applicants shall submit 2 full sets of fingerprints that comply with the requirements in NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5 and 10.8.2.14 NMAC.
  7. Application fee. An applicant shall submit a non-refundable application fee of $100.00. Current and retired law enforcement officers are exempt from this fee.

[10.8.2.12 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.13 - License Application Review And Issuance:
  1. Time period for review. In accordance with Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-6, the department shall review the application, conduct a national criminal background check of each applicant, and make a determination within 30 days of the date the department receives a complete application and background check.
  2. Determination by department.
    1. Approval. If the department finds that the applicant meets the requirements in the act and this rule for issuance of a license, the department shall issue a license.
    2. Denial. If the department finds that the applicant does not meet the requirements for issuance of a license, the department shall issue an order of denial in accordance with 10.8.2.26 NMAC. The order of denial shall cite the particular requirements of the act or this rule that the applicant has failed to meet.
  3. Information on license. In addition to the information required by Subsection C of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-6, a license to carry a concealed handgun may include:
    1. a physical description of the licensee, including his or her race or national origin, sex, hair color, eye color, height, and weight;
    2. the state seal;
    3. instructions to the licensee; and
    4. other information as determined by the department.
  4. Effective date and term of license. Original and renewed licenses are effective for four years from the date of issuance by the department. Replacement licenses and licenses that have been endorsed to add another category or highest caliber of handgun shall expire on the date the replaced license would have expired.
  5. Dual licenses prohibited. A licensee may not own or possess more than one New Mexico license to carry a concealed handgun. A license to carry a concealed handgun shall indicate all categories and highest calibers of handguns the licensee is authorized to carry concealed in New Mexico.

[10.8.2.13 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.14 - Fingerprinting Of Applicants:

In accordance with Paragraph (3) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5, all applicants shall submit two full sets of fingerprints. The department may refuse to accept fingerprints it determines are not legible and classifiable.

  1. Responsibilities of applicant. The applicant must present the following documents to the person recording his or her fingerprints:
    1. a valid government-issued photographic identification card; and
    2. the two blank fingerprint cards and instruction page supplied by the department.
  2. Responsibilities of person recording the fingerprints. The person who records the applicant's fingerprints shall:
    1. verify that the government-issued photographic identification card is of the person being fingerprinted;
    2. either complete or verify the accuracy of the non-fingerprint data being filed on the card;
    3. record the applicant's fingerprints on the card, in a manner consistent with that normally required for an arrest fingerprint card, including the simultaneous impressions;
    4. obtain the signature of the applicant on both fingerprint cards;
    5. sign the fingerprint card; and
    6. return all documents to the applicant who shall forward them to the department.

[10.8.2.14 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.15 - Firearms Training For Applicants And Licensees:
  1. Department approved firearms training course.
    1. An applicant seeking a license shall satisfactorily complete an initial firearms training course approved by the department that includes at least 15 hours of classroom and firing range instruction on the subjects specified in Subsection A of NMSA1978 Section 29-19-7 except:
      1. a department approved instructor; or
      2. a current law enforcement officer; or
      3. a retired law enforcement officer who has been retired 10 years or less at time of application; and
      4. a retired law enforcement officer who has been retired longer than 10 years is required to attend a firearms training course as per the act.
    2. A licensee shall complete a two (2) hour refresher course two years after the issuance of an initial or renewed license which shall be range qualification of their approved caliber of handgun and the instructor shall notify the department within thirty (30) days on a form prescribed by the department.
    3. A licensee seeking renewal of a license shall satisfactorily complete a refresher firearms training course approved by the department that includes at least 4 hours of classroom and firing range instruction on the subjects specified in Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-7.
    4. The department may suspend a license if the licensee does not comply with the refresher requirements. Upon complying, the licensee shall submit a $5.00 reinstatement fee.
  2. Competency demonstration.
    1. An applicant or licensee shall demonstrate competency in the safe use of each category and highest caliber of handgun for which he or she seeks certification by firing the handgun with live ammunition at a target no larger than 12 inches wide and 18 inches high.
    2. An applicant or licensee shall fire 15 rounds from three yards and 10 rounds from seven yards.
    3. An applicant or licensee shall score 4 points for each shot that hits within the scoring line and zero points for each shot that hits outside the scoring line. An applicant must obtain a score of 72% to pass the competency demonstration.
  3. Determination of competency. An approved instructor shall determine whether or not to issue a certificate of completion based on the applicant or licensee's score on the competency demonstration and the applicant or licensee’s knowledge and understanding of the subjects specified in Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-7.
  4. Certificates of completion. An approved instructor shall issue a certificate of completion to each applicant who demonstrates competency in the safe use of the categories and calibers of handguns for which he or she seeks licensure as prescribed in Subsections B and C of this section. The certificate of completion shall include the name and date of birth of the applicant, the printed name and signature of the approved instructor who scored the competency demonstration, the date the applicant completed the firearms training course, all categories and calibers of handguns for which the applicant demonstrated competency, and a unique number consisting of the instructor number assigned by the department and a sequential number.

[10.8.2.15 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.16 - Terms And Conditions Of License:
  1. Carrying only handguns listed on license. No person shall carry a concealed handgun of a different category or higher caliber than is indicated on the license issued to that person by the department. A licensee shall only carry one (1) concealed handgun at any given time.
  2. Consumption of alcohol prohibited. No person shall consume alcohol while carrying a concealed handgun.
  3. Carrying while impaired. Pursuant to NMSA1978 Section 30-7-4, no person shall carry a concealed handgun while impaired by the use of alcohol, controlled substances, or over-the-counter or prescribed medications.
  4. Display of license on demand. A licensee carrying a concealed handgun on or about his person in public shall, upon demand by a peace officer, display his license to carry a concealed handgun.
  5. Prohibited acts. A licensee shall not deface, alter, mutilate, reproduce, lend, transfer, or sell a license. A licensee shall adhere to NMSA 1978 Section 30-7-4 as it pertains to negligent use of a deadly weapon.
  6. Carrying prohibited on private property. In addition to other limitations stated in the act, a licensee may not carry a concealed handgun on or about his person on private property that has signs posted prohibiting the carrying of concealed weapons or when verbally told so by a person lawfully in possession of the property.
  7. Carrying prohibited in preschools. As used in Subsection C of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-8, preschool means a child care facility, whether home-based or center-based, whether or not the facility is licensed, registered, or regulated, that provides care to infants, toddlers, and children aged 5 and younger.
  8. Indicia of licensure. No person who is not a law enforcement officer, may carry a badge, patch, card, or any other indication of authority to carry a concealed handgun in New Mexico other than the license issued by the department or a license issued by a state that has been accepted by transfer, recognition or reciprocity by New Mexico pursuant to the act.
  9. Notice of change in circumstances. A licensee shall, within 10 calendar days, notify the department in writing of any of the following:
    1. adjudication of mental incompetence;
    2. commitment to a facility for the treatment of mental illness;
    3. commitment to a facility for treatment of addiction to alcohol, controlled substances, or other drugs;
    4. issuance of an order of protection by a court;
    5. indictment for or charge with a felony or one of the misdemeanor offenses described in Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    6. is no longer a full time salaried law enforcement officer; and
    7. is required to turn in the license within 10 calendar days of the change.

[10.8.2.16 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05; A, 5-14-10]

§10.8.2.17 - License Renewal And Transfer:
  1. To renew a New Mexico license. A licensee may file an application for a renewed license on the form prescribed by the department.
    1. The licensee may file the application anytime from 60 calendar days before the license expires until 60 calendar days after the license expires. If the license has expired, a licensee shall not carry a concealed handgun until he receives his renewed license.
    2. The licensee shall complete a refresher firearms training course prior to filing the application.
    3. The licensee shall file with the department:
      1. 2 full sets of fingerprints as required by NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5 and 10.8.2.14 NMAC;
      2. a certified copy of a certificate of completion for a refresher firearms training course approved by the department issued by an approved instructor not more than 90 days prior to the date the application is filed; and
      3. a nonrefundable $75.00 renewal fee;
      4. a copy of New Mexico drivers license or other government issued identification which contains a picture.
  2. To transfer a license from another state. A person seeking to transfer a license from another state may file an application for a New Mexico renewed license on the form prescribed by the department. An applicant for transfer shall not carry a concealed handgun in New Mexico until the applicant receives a New Mexico license unless they have a license from a state that has been accepted by transfer, recognition or reciprocity by New Mexico.
    1. In addition to the filings required by Paragraph 3 of Subsection A of this section, the applicant for transfer shall file:
      1. proof of citizenship as provided in Subsection A of 10.8.2.12 NMAC;
      2. proof of residency as provided in Subsection B of 10.8.2.12 NMAC;
      3. proof of age as provided in Subsection C of 10.8.2.12 NMAC; and
      4. a photocopy of the license being transferred.
    2. The applicant for transfer shall complete:
      1. a refresher firearms training course if the firearms training required by the other state meets or exceeds New Mexico firearms training requirements and the licensee completed firearms training not more than 1 year prior to filing the application; or
      2. an initial firearms training course if the firearms training required by the other state does not meet New Mexico firearms training requirements or the licensee completed firearms training more than 1 year prior to filing the application.
    3. The applicant for transfer must meet all other requirements for obtaining a license in New Mexico by showing either that:
      1. the requirements for licensure in the other state meet or exceed the requirements for issuance of a license in New Mexico; or
      2. the applicant has satisfactorily completed the requirements for issuance of a license in New Mexico that were not applicable in the other state.
  3. Time period for review. As prescribed in Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-6, the department shall review the application for a renewed license, conduct a national criminal background check of each applicant for a renewed license or transfer of a license from another state, and make a determination within 30 days of the date the department receives a complete application and background check.
  4. Determination by department.
    1. Approval. If the department finds that the applicant for a renewed license or transfer of a license from another state meets the requirements in the act and this rule for a renewed license, the department shall issue a license.
    2. Denial. If the department finds that the applicant does not meet the requirements for a renewed license or transfer of a license from another state, the department shall issue an order of denial in accordance with 10.8.2.26 NMAC. The order of denial shall cite the particular requirements of the act or this rule that the applicant has failed to meet.

[10.8.2.17 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.18 - Additional Handgun Endorsement:

If a licensee wishes to add another category or additional higher calibers of handguns to his license, the licensee shall file with the department an application for a renewed license. The licensee shall also submit a certified copy of a certificate of completion from an approved instructor stating that the licensee has demonstrated competency on a firing range for each additional category and caliber of handgun, his current license, and a $5.00 processing fee. The licensee need not retake the classroom portion of the firearms training course. The department shall issue a renewed license within 10 days of receipt of the application. The renewed license shall expire on the same date as the original license would have expired. In accordance with NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-9, a licensee shall not carry a concealed handgun until he receives the renewed license.

[10.8.2.18 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.19 - Replacement License:
  1. Change of name address, or status;
    1. A licensee who changes his or her name, address or law enforcement status shall file within 30 days:
      1. an application for a replacement license on the form prescribed by the department;
      2. if applicable, a certified copy of a legal document proving the change of name; and
      3. a nonrefundable $5.00 processing fee; and
      4. if applicable, proof of reemployment with a law enforcement agency.
    2. The department will issue a replacement license within 10 days of receipt of the application.
  2. Loss, theft, or destruction of license: A licensee who loses his license or whose license is stolen or destroyed shall file a police report within 10 working days of the date the licensee discovers the loss, theft, or destruction of the license. The licensee shall not carry a concealed handgun until he obtains a replacement license. A licensee who seeks to replace a license that is lost, stolen, or destroyed shall file with the department:
    1. an application for a replacement license on the form prescribed by the department;
    2. the case number of the police report;
    3. a notarized statement made under oath that the license was lost, stolen or destroyed; and
    4. a nonrefundable $5.00 processing fee.

[10.8.2.19 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.20 - Enforcement:
  1. Authority to disarm. A peace officer acting in the lawful discharge of his official duties is authorized to disarm a licensee at any time the peace officer has probable cause to believe it is necessary for the protection of the licensee, peace officer or other individual. The peace officer shall return the handgun to the licensee before dismissing the licensee from the scene when the peace officer has determined that the licensee is not a threat to himself, the peace officer, or other individuals, provided that the licensee has not violated any provision of the act or this rule, or committed any other violation which could result in arrest of the licensee. If the peace officer has probable cause to believe that the handgun is stolen, has an altered serial number, or has been used in the commission of a crime, the peace officer shall hold the handgun in evidence and shall submit a copy of his or her agency report to the department within 10 working days.
  2. Authority to confiscate license. A peace officer may confiscate a license if the licensee has violated any provision of the act or this rule, or committed any other violation that could result in arrest of the licensee. If the licensee has committed a violation of the act or rule warranting suspension or revocation of the license, the officer shall file an affidavit of violation as provided in Subsection B of 10.8.2.21 NMAC.

[10.8.2.20 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.21 - Suspension And Revocation Of A License:
  1. Grounds. The department may suspend or revoke a license if the licensee:
    1. is found to have violated any provision of the act or this rule;
    2. is a fugitive from justice, in accordance with Paragraph (4) of Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    3. is convicted of a felony, in accordance with Paragraph (5) of Subsection A of NMSA1978 Section 29-19-4;
    4. is under indictment for a felony criminal offense, in accordance with Paragraph (6) of Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    5. is prohibited by law from purchasing or possessing a firearm, in accordance with Paragraph (7) of Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    6. is adjudicated mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution, in accordance with Paragraph (8) of Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    7. is addicted to alcohol or controlled substances, in accordance with Paragraph (9) of Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    8. receives a conditional discharge, a diversion or a deferment or is convicted of, pleads guilty to or enters a plea of nolo contendre to a misdemeanor offense involving a crime of violence within ten years immediately preceding the application, in accordance with Paragraph (1) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    9. is convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs, in accordance with Paragraph (2) of Subsection B of NMSA1978 Section 29-19-4;
    10. is convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving the possession or abuse of a controlled substance within ten years immediately preceding the application, in accordance with Paragraph (3) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4;
    11. is convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving assault, battery or battery against a household member, in accordance with Paragraph (4) of Subsection B of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-4; or
    12. is subject to a valid protective order issued by a court.
  2. Affidavit of violation by a licensee. If a peace officer believes there is probable cause to suspend or revoke a license, the peace officer shall prepare an affidavit on a form prescribed by the department. The affidavit shall cite the provision of law that was violated. The peace officer shall file the affidavit and any other reports or information relating to the licensee available to the officer with the department within 10 working days of the date the peace officer learns of the violation.
  3. Notice of suspension or revocation and surrender of license. The department shall review the affidavit and attachments, and, if the department finds probable cause to suspend or revoke the license, may issue an order of suspension or revocation to the licensee advising the licensee of his right to a hearing in accordance with 10.8.2.26 NMAC. If the licensee elects not to request a hearing, the licensee shall surrender his license to the department within 15 calendar days of the expiration of the period for requesting a hearing.
  4. Term of suspension or revocation and reapplication.
    1. The department may suspend a license for up to one year. The licensee may file an application to renew the license upon expiration of the term of suspension.
    2. The department may revoke a license. The person whose license was revoked may file an application for another license no earlier than one year from the date the license was revoked.
    3. The license of a current law enforcement officer shall expire on the date the officer leaves employment unless the officer has been hired by another law enforcement agency in New Mexico with written proof provided by the licensee.

[10.8.2.21 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.22 - Department Approval Of Instructors And Firearms Training Courses:
  1. Application required. Any person seeking to instruct firearms training courses pursuant to this rule shall file an application with the department to become an approved instructor. Application shall be made on the form prescribed by the department, and shall be typewritten or legibly handwritten in ink. A person who is not an approved instructor may not instruct a firearms training course pursuant to this rule.
  2. Requirements for approval. In order to be approved as an instructor, an instructor applicant must:
    1. agree to be subject to New Mexico jurisdiction for the limited purpose of enforcing the act and this rule;
    2. submit 2 full sets of fingerprints that comply with the requirements in NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-5 and 10.8.2.14 NMAC for positive identification purposes;
    3. submit an authorization for release of information form provided by the department;
    4. submit to the department the curriculum and course materials for a firearms training course that has been certified or sponsored by a federal or state law enforcement agency, a college, a firearms training school, or a nationally recognized organization, approved by the department, that customarily offers firearms training and a copy of the letter or other document approving the course from the certifying or sponsoring entity; an instructor applicant may develop his own curriculum and materials but must have them certified or sponsored by one of the entities identified in Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-7;
    5. provide a description of the instructor applicant’s experience in offering firearms training; an instructor-applicant who wishes to conduct firing range instruction must possess a certificate of completion of a firearms instructor-training program approved by the department that was issued or renewed not more than 5 years prior to the date the application is filed;
    6. submit a list of all persons the instructor applicant proposes to engage as instructors and the subject each will be engaged to teach;
    7. agree to be responsible for the actions and omissions of all persons engaged by the approved instructor for the purpose of conducting firearms training courses pursuant to this rule; or
    8. be a currently certified law enforcement instructor employed by a law enforcement agency.
  3. Time period for review. As prescribed in Subsection A of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-6, the department shall review the application of each instructor applicant and make a determination within 30 days of the date the department receives a complete application and background check.
  4. Determination by the department.
    1. Approval.
      1. Instructor. If the department finds that the instructor applicant meets the requirements specified in Subsection B of this section, the department shall issue a permit that shall be valid for 4 years. The permit shall include the approved instructor’s name, business address, and date of birth, the expiration date of the permit, and the instructor number assigned by the department.
      2. Curriculum. If the department finds that the proposed curriculum and course materials for the firearms training course meet the requirements of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-7 and this rule, the department shall approve the proposed firearms training course in writing. The department’s approval shall remain in effect for the shortest of:
        1. one year;
        2. until the approved instructor significantly changes the curriculum or course materials; or
        3. the requirements in the act or this rule are changed.
    2. Denial. If the department finds either that the instructor applicant or the proposed firearms training course do not meet the requirements of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-7 or this rule, the department shall issue an order of denial in accordance with 10.8.2.26 NMAC. The order of denial shall cite the particular requirements of the act or this rule that the instructor applicant or proposed firearm training course has failed to meet.
  5. Renewal. An approved instructor seeking to renew his permit shall file with the department at least 60 calendar days before the date his permit expires:
    1. an application for renewal on the form prescribed by the department;
    2. the curriculum and course materials for a firearms training course that is certified or sponsored by a federal or state law enforcement agency, a college, a firearms training school, or a nationally recognized organization, approved by the department, that customarily offers firearms training and a copy of the letter or other document approving the course from the certifying or sponsoring entity; and
    3. a list of all persons the instructor applicant proposes to engage as instructors and the subject each will be engaged to teach.
  6. No authority to carry. An approved instructor is not authorized to carry a concealed handgun unless the approved instructor obtains a license from the department pursuant to 29-19-4 of the act and this rule. If an instructor applicant wishes to apply for a license at the same time he applies for a permit, he may do so by checking the appropriate boxes on the instructor application form, complying with all requirements for a license in the act and this rule, and enclosing the license application fee and all documents required by 10.8.2.12 NMAC with the application for a permit.
  7. List of approved instructors. The department shall maintain and make available to the public a list of approved instructors. An approved instructor may request to be removed from the list, but shall remain subject to a request for inspection of public records pursuant to NMSA 1978, Chapter 14, Article, 2.

[10.8.2.22 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.23 - Background Investigations Of Applicants And Instructor Applicants:
  1. Central office. The department shall conduct a state and national criminal background check, and a court records check for protective orders, of each applicant for an original, transferred or renewed license. The department shall conduct a state criminal background check, and a court records check for protective orders, of each instructor applicant for an original or renewed permit. The department may require certain applicants to provide information or execute documents to enable the department to obtain criminal history records of disposition of charges. The department may conduct such other investigation of an applicant as the department deems necessary to determine an applicant's suitability for a license or permit.
  2. In the field. The department may assign an agent or police officer to conduct a field background investigation of an applicant or instructor applicant. Upon completion of the investigation, the agent or police officer shall prepare a report of the results of the investigation.

[10.8.2.23 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.24 - Responsibilities Of Approved Instructors:
  1. Minimum standards for instruction. An approved instructor shall:
    1. engage as instructors only those persons who have been issued a permit by the department, except as provided in Subsection C of this section;
    2. have no more students in the classroom or on an indoor firing range than the maximum occupancy allowed by the state or local fire code;
    3. use classroom facilities that comply with all federal, state, and local laws relating to persons with disabilities, public health, safety, and sanitation, including restroom facilities;
    4. use only the curriculum, course materials, handouts, and videos approved by the department;
    5. display the permit issued by the department in an appropriate and visible location;
    6. not permit a student to begin a firearms training course until the student has received written information stating all fees, including incidental costs, charged for the course, policies for passing and failing, refund and reschedule policies, and attendance requirements.
  2. Minimum standards for firing range instruction. An approved instructor shall:
    1. not permit a student to participate in firing range instruction until the student has completed the classroom portion of the firearms training course;
    2. conduct firing range instruction under various light conditions when possible;
    3. have no more students firing a handgun on the firing range than the instructor can effectively and safely instruct and monitor.
  3. Guest instructors.
    1. An approved instructor may use guest instructors who are not approved instructors to teach various parts of a firearms training course, but only with the prior written approval of the department. An approved instructor must file a request for approval to use a guest instructor at least 30 days prior to the date the guest instructor will teach for the first time. The department will not conduct background investigations of guest instructors.
    2. A guest instructor may teach a maximum of 3 times in a calendar year. No guest instructor may teach all of a firearms training course. Any person wishing to instruct firearms training courses more than 3 times in a calendar year must apply for and obtain a permit from the department.
    3. An approved instructor shall maintain a file on each guest instructor who teaches a portion of the firearms training course. The file shall include a list of the dates and portions of the course each guest instructor has taught, and appropriate documents showing the education, experience, licenses or certifications that qualify the guest instructor to teach the portions of the course he has taught.
  4. Monitoring by the department. The department may monitor all aspects of firearms training courses. Approved instructors shall cooperate with agents of the department in its efforts to monitor the training of applicants.
    1. Should a department agent determine that an instructor is not following the act or these rules or is placing their students in danger, the agent shall have the authority to end the class. The agent shall obtain the instructors permit, make a written report and submit both to the secretary. The instructor may then file an appeal pursuant to the act and these rules.
    2. The agents of the department are certified law enforcement officers and required by the department to be armed while on duty. No instructor has the authority to require the agents to be disarmed while they are performing their duties.
    3. Failure to adhere to any provisions of Subsection D, these rules or the act will be grounds for temporary or permanent loss of their instructors permit.
  5. Reports. An approved instructor shall file the following information with the department within 5 working days after the end of each firearms training course on the form prescribed by the department:
    1. the name, address, and date of birth of each applicant who attended the course;
    2. for each applicant, the score the applicant achieved in the handgun competency demonstration;
    3. for each applicant, the category and highest caliber of each handgun for which the applicant demonstrated competency; and
    4. for each applicant, whether or not the approved instructor issued a certificate of completion and each category and caliber for which the certificate was issued.
  6. Records. An approved instructor shall maintain the records required by this subsection for a period of three years from the date of completion of each firearms training course. The records shall be stored in a safe and secure place and shall be available for inspection by the department upon request. An approved instructor shall maintain:
    1. a record of each handgun competency certificate issued;
    2. a record of the following information for each course:
      1. name, address, and date of birth of each applicant who attended the course;
      2. for each applicant, the score the applicant achieved in the handgun competency demonstration;
      3. for each applicant, the category and caliber, of each handgun for which the applicant demonstrated competency; and
      4. an indication of whether or not the approved instructor issued a certificate of completion to that applicant;
    3. a record of the dates and number of hours of each firearms training course;
    4. a record of the curriculum and course materials used in each course; and
    5. copies of documents and correspondence filed with the department.

[10.8.2.24 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.25 - Suspension And Revocation Of An Instructor Permit:
  1. Grounds. The department may suspend or revoke a permit if:
    1. the approved instructor is the subject of valid complaints from applicants, licensees, or other approved instructors; or
    2. for any of the grounds stated in Subsection A of 10.8.2.21 NMAC with respect to a license; or
    3. for violation of any provision of the act or these rules.
  2. Notice of suspension or revocation and surrender of permit. The department shall investigate all allegations concerning grounds for suspension or revocations of permits. If the department finds probable cause to suspend or revoke the permit, the department may issue an order of suspension or revocation to the approved instructor advising the approved instructor of his right to a hearing in accordance with 10.8.2.26 NMAC. If the approved instructor elects not to request a hearing, the approved instructor shall surrender his permit to the department within 15 calendar days of the expiration of the period for requesting a hearing and shall cease offering firearms training courses pursuant to this rule.
  3. Immediate suspension of firearms training course and refund of tuition.
    1. The department may immediately suspend, without notice or a prior hearing, a firearms training course whenever the department finds that the person teaching the course:
      1. is not an approved instructor;
      2. is impaired by the use of alcohol, controlled substances, or over-the-counter or prescribed medications; or
      3. is teaching something that is contrary to law or accepted safety practices.
    2. The approved instructor shall be given the opportunity to request a hearing before the department pursuant to 10.8.2.26 NMAC.
    3. If the department finds, after notice and a public hearing, that the person teaching the course was not an approved instructor, was impaired, or was teaching something contrary to law or accepted safety practices, the department may order the person to refund to every student in the class the person was teaching any fees paid by the student to take the class. If the department finds that all or any portion of the firearms training course was deficient because the instructor was not an approved instructor, was impaired, or was teaching something contrary to law or safety, the department may require the students in that class to retake the portions that were deficient. The department may also initiate proceedings to suspend or revoke the approved instructor’s permit.
  4. Term of suspension or revocation and reapplication.
    1. The department may suspend a permit for up to one year. The approved instructor may file an application to renew the permit upon expiration of the term of suspension.
    2. The department may revoke a permit. The instructor whose permit was revoked may file an application for a new permit no earlier than one year from the date the permit was revoked.

[10.8.2.25 NMAC- N, 11-26-03; A, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.26 - Hearing Procedures:
  1. Written notice required. The department shall mail an order of denial, suspension, or revocation and instructions for requesting a hearing to the respondent in accordance with Subsection B of 10.8.2.8 NMAC. The order shall become final on the 35th day after the date the notice was postmarked unless the department receives a request for a hearing, or the notice is returned to the department as undeliverable, before that date.
  2. Request for hearing. A respondent who seeks reconsideration of an order of denial, suspension, or revocation shall file a request for hearing. The request for hearing shall:
    1. be in writing;
    2. be received by the department within 35 days of the date the notice is postmarked;
    3. state with specificity the basis for challenging the order; and
    4. provide any additional documentation to support the challenge.
  3. Hearing date. Within 30 days of receipt of a request for hearing, the department will mail a notice of hearing to the respondent. The hearing shall be held within a reasonable period of time, but in no case sooner than 20 days after the notice is postmarked or later than 90 days from the date the department receives the request for hearing. The department may extend the time for a hearing one time for up to an additional 60 days. The department shall not unreasonably deny a request for postponement of the hearing made by a respondent.
  4. Contents of notice. The notice shall include:
    1. the date, time, place, and nature of the hearing;
    2. a statement of the legal authority and jurisdiction pursuant to which the hearing is being held;
    3. reference to the particular sections of the act or this rule that were cited as the basis for the denial, suspension, or revocation;
    4. a statement of the matters or issues involved; and
    5. a statement of the rights specified in Subsection I of this section.
  5. The hearing shall be conducted in an informal manner. The hearing may be conducted in person or by telephone conference call, video conferencing, or other appropriate technology at the department’s expense.
  6. Hearing examiner. The department shall designate a hearing examiner who shall regulate the proceedings and perform all acts and take all measures necessary or proper for the efficient conduct of the hearing. The hearing examiner may:
    1. administer oaths;
    2. issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of relevant books, documents, and records;
    3. exclude any irrelevant, immaterial, or unduly repetitious evidence;
    4. take notice of judicially cognizable facts and of recognized technical or scientific facts within the departments specialized knowledge;
    5. hear evidence from the respondent and the department; the department may introduce into evidence copies of government records needed to establish the existence of certain facts which could result in denial, suspension, or revocation of a license or permit, including but not limited to records regarding convictions, judgments regarding mental competency or chemical dependency, or other matters that may be established by government records;
    6. call and examine the respondent or other witnesses; and
    7. utilize the department's experience, technical competence, and specialized knowledge in evaluating the evidence.
  7. Testimony. Testimony at the hearing shall be taken under oath.
  8. Record of hearing. The hearing shall be recorded at the department’s expense. In addition, the department shall make a written record of:
    1. the style of the proceedings;
    2. the nature of the proceedings including copies of the affidavit of violation, the order of denial, suspension, or revocation, and the notice of hearing;
    3. the place, date, and time of the hearing and all continuances or recesses of the hearing;
    4. the appearance or nonappearance of the respondent;
    5. if the respondent appears with an attorney or other representative, the name and address of the attorney or representative;
    6. all evidence and testimony and a copy of all exhibits introduced into evidence;
    7. the findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommended decision of the hearing examiner; and
    8. the decision of the secretary.
  9. Rights of applicant, instructor applicant, approved instructor, or licensee. The respondent has the right to:
    1. attend the hearing;
    2. file evidence in open hearing;
    3. recuse a hearing examiner for cause;
    4. be assisted or represented by an attorney or other person at his own expense; and
    5. call, examine and cross-examine witnesses.
  10. The respondent shall stipulate in writing on a form prescribed by the department that the hearing examiner shall be released from civil liability for all communications, findings, opinions, and conclusions made in the course and scope of the hearing. Failure to so stipulate shall result in termination of the hearing and continuation of the order issued by the department.
  11. Deliberation. At the close of the hearing, the hearing examiner shall review and consider the entire record, prepare findings of fact, conclusions of law, and a recommended decision, and submit them to the secretary not later than 20 calendar days after the close of the hearing. The hearing examiner shall make a finding on each ground for denial, suspension, or revocation alleged. The recommended decision shall be based upon substantial, competent, and relevant evidence and testimony appearing in the record of hearing.
  12. Final order. Within 20 calendar days of receipt of the recommended decision, the secretary shall review the record of the hearing and issue a final order affirming the denial of an application for, or suspension or revocation of, a license or permit or reversing the denial, suspension, or revocation and authorizing issuance or reinstatement of a license or permit. The department shall mail a copy of the final order to the respondent. The final order shall be based upon substantial, competent, and relevant evidence and testimony appearing in the record of hearing.
  13. Appeals. A respondent adversely affected by a final order of the department may file a petition for a writ of certiorari in the district court in the county where the respondent resides within 30 days of the date the final order was postmarked. The appellant shall bear the costs of the appeal.

[10.8.2.26 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.27 - Prohibiting The Carrying Of Concealed Handguns On Private Property:

Pursuant to Subsection C of NMSA 1978 Section 29-19-12, any person lawfully in possession of private property may prohibit the carrying of concealed handguns on such private property by posting notice in accordance with NMSA 1978 Section 30-14-6 or by verbally notifying persons entering upon the property.

[10.8.2.27 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.28 - Departmental Immunity:

The department, or any employee of the department, shall not be criminally or civilly liable for acts:

  1. performed by the department or employee in good faith based on information available to the department or employee at the time the act was performed;
  2. committed by a licensee unless the department or employee had actual knowledge at the time the license was issued that the licensee was prohibited by law from being issued a license; or
  3. committed by a person approved by the department or employee to offer a firearms training course.

[10.8.2.28 NMAC- N, 11-26-03]

§10.8.2.29 - Reciprocity:

The secretary or his designee shall have discretionary authority to afford transfer, recognition or reciprocity to a concealed handgun license issued by another state, transfer, recognition or reciprocity.

  1. Transfer, recognition or reciprocity may be granted if the other state:
    1. issues a license or permit with an expiration date printed on the license or permit;
    2. is available to verify the license or permit status for law enforcement purposes within three business days of request;
    3. has disqualification, suspension and revocation requirements for a concealed handgun license or permit;
    4. requires that an applicant for a concealed handgun license or permit submit to a national criminal history records check;
    5. requires that an applicant not be prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to federal or state law; and
    6. requires that an applicant satisfactorily complete a firearms safety program that covers deadly force issues, weapons care and maintenance, safe handling and storage of firearms and marksmanship.
  2. Each state which the department has afforded transfer, recognition or reciprocity shall be listed on the department’s web page.

[10.8.2.29 NMAC N, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.30 - Current Law Enforcement Officers:
  1. Any current law enforcement officer residing in New Mexico shall be allowed to obtain a five year concealed handgun carry license by submitting:
    1. by submitting all forms as required in section 10.8.2.11 of these rules; and
    2. a letter from their agency head verifying that the applicant is employed in good standing and is qualified under 29-19-4 of the Act; and
    3. a copy of their law enforcement certification and number; and
    4. a copy of their latest firearms qualification score with category and caliber designated, signed and dated by the authorized firearms instructor conducting the course.
  2. An application may be denied if:
    1. the head of the law enforcement agency employing the officer requests in writing that a license not be issued and supplies sufficient information to enable the department to determine if the denial should be granted; or
    2. if the applicant is pending criminal charges or serious administrative allegations involving their conduct as a law enforcement officer.
  3. The agency and applicant will be notified in writing of the departments’ decision. If denied, the applicant may follow the appeal process.
  4. The applicants’ agency will be notified of any disqualifying information that may become known during the background check.
  5. A license issued under this section must be turned in when the officer is no longer employed by a law enforcement agency.

[10.8.2.30 NMAC N, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2.31 - Retired Law Enforcement Officers:

Any retired law enforcement officer shall be allowed to obtain a five year concealed handgun carry license under the following requirements:

  1. by submitting all forms as required in section 10.8.2.11 of these rules; and
  2. is a resident of the state of New Mexico; and
  3. has retired from a law enforcement agency after a minimum of 15 years employment, unless the retirement was due to a job related disability; if the 15 years is with more than one agency, the applicant must obtain a letter from each agency verifying such employment; and
  4. submits a letter from the agency they retired from which indicates they retired in good standing with the effective date of retirement; and
  5. submits a copy of their last firearms qualification score indicating category and caliber designation and is dated and signed by the departments firearms instructor; if the officer has been retired longer than ten years at the time of the application, the officer must take a firearms course as per the act; and
  6. submits a copy of their law enforcement certification and number; and
  7. qualifies and adheres to the provisions of the act and these rules.

[10.8.2.31 NMAC N, 11-30-05]

§10.8.2 NMAC: - History of

History of repealed material.

10.8.2 NMAC, Carrying Concealed Handguns, filed on 9-4-01, was removed from the New Mexico Administrative Code pursuant to Supreme Court Opinion 2002 NMSC-017.

TITLE 19 - NATURAL RESOURCES AND WILDLIFE

CHAPTER 5 - State Parks And Recreation

Part 2 - Park Visitor Provisions

§19.5.2.21 - Firearms And Bows:
  1. Visitors shall not possess firearms with a cartridge in any portion of the mechanisam except:
    1. a legally licensed hunter during a designated hunting season and within park areas designated as open to hunting for the species the hunter is licensed to hunt;
    2. on duty law enforcement officials;
    3. persons with a valid concealed handgun license issued to them pursuant to the Concealed Handgun Carry Act, NMSA 1978, Section 29-19-1 et seq.;
    4. persons with a concealed handgun license issued to them by a state that has a valid concealed handgun reciprocity agreement with the state on New Mexico; or
    5. persons carrying a firearm in a private vehicle or other private means of conveyance, for lawful protection of the person’s or another’s person or property.
  2. Visitors shall not discharge a firearm within a state park except:
    1. a legally licensed hunter during designated hunting season who is hunting within park areas designated as open to hunting for the species the hunter is licensed to hunt and who is more than 300 yards from a developed park area or occupied campsite;
    2. on duty law enforcement officials pursuant to their official duties; or
    3. persons with a valid concealed handgun license issued to them pursuant to the Concealed Handgun Carry Act, NMSA 1978, Section 29-19-1 et seq. or another state that has a valid concealed handgun reciprocity agreement with the state of New Mexico when discharged in self defense, defense of another person or defense of a dwelling or habitation.
  3. Visitors shall not use or discharge arrows, bolts or air or gas fired projectiles, weapons and other devices capable of causing injury to persons or animals or damage or destruction of property in the state parks system, except:
    1. a legally licensed hunter or fisherman during a designated hunting or fishing season who is hunting or fishing within park areas designated as open to hunting or fishing for the species the hunter or fisherman is licensed to hunt or fish, or in authorized areas, and who is more than 100 yards from a developed park area or occupied campsite; or
    2. for park authorized events and activities.
  4. Subsection C of 19.5.2.21 NMAC does not apply to on duty law enforcement officials acting pursuant to their official duties.

[19.5.2.21 NMAC - Rp, 19.5.2.21 NMAC, 1/1/2008; 19.5.2.21 NMAC - Rn & A, 19.5.2.20 NMAC, 1/1/2013]