New Mexico Semi-Auto Ban Stalls — But the Fight Isn’t Over
0
0
0
In a major win for gun owners, New Mexico’s sweeping semi-automatic firearm ban, Senate Bill 17, has officially stalled and will not move to the House floor before the close of the 30-day session. The bill’s lead sponsor, Sen. Debbie O’Malley (D-Albuquerque), confirmed that SB 17 failed to advance before the legislative deadline. While sponsors have made it clear they intend to revisit the proposal in future sessions, this year’s effort is effectively dead. This did not happen by accident.
Grassroots Gun Owners Made the Difference
Credit belongs squarely to New Mexico gun owners, local firearm retailers, and advocacy organizations who showed up, testified, and applied pressure. Groups like the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association, along with countless concerned citizens, packed hearings, contacted lawmakers, and exposed serious flaws in the legislation.
During late-night committee hearings, members of the public raised concerns about:
Broad bans on commonly owned semi-automatic firearms
Conflicts with federal law that would have restricted law-abiding citizens from retrieving firearms from pawn shops
Costly new mandates on small firearm dealers
Extreme video surveillance retention requirements (up to two years)
Inventory record burdens modeled after cannabis dispensary regulations
Small business owners testified that the proposed security mandates alone could put family-owned gun stores out of business. Their voices mattered. As does yours. This shows that we can win. We have the constitution and common sense on our side. More importantly, pro-gun advocates have real power in numbers. We have millions of gun owners in this country, a very important voting block.
When we use our voice, stand together and push hard, we can make the other side blink. We are not to be tested and they know it. They understand that our vote matters and we outnumber them. This is what James Madison meant when he said,
“Oppressors can tyrannize only when they achieve a standing army, and enslaved press, and a disarmed populace.”
We as Americans, have the duty to be ungovernable. For without that, we will slip into what has taken hold in Europe and elsewhere where tyranny reigns supreme and their populaces cannot fight back. We will cease to be exceptional and that “Shining City on a Hill”.
What SB 17 Would Have Done
The sponsors of SB17 were attempting to, ban the sale of most semi-automatic firearms, impose additional regulations on gun dealers, and expand state oversight in the name of “gun trafficking prevention”. We have seen this before and make no mistake we will see it again. Like similar efforts across the country, SB 17 focused on restricting categories of firearms rather than targeting violent offenders.
We are seeing our state legislator here in Minnesota attempt to do a similar thing with HF3433 & SF3654. Anti-gunners will continue to push for disarmament than admit that there are evil people in this world and harsh punishment for them is necessary. The only way to address violence is by holding accountability with the criminals who commit the violent acts. Punishing law-abiding citizens who own commonly used firearms for defense, sport, and recreation will continue to do nothing in preventing crime.
A Pattern We’re Seeing Nationwide
Do not forget that this is not isolated to New Mexico. Now matter where you live, if you are in a blue state they are attempting to do this all across the nation. We recently covered similar legislative pushes in Virginia, where lawmakers are advancing magazine bans and so-called “assault weapons” prohibitions that are still moving forward.
At the same time, states like West Virginia, Wyoming, and South Dakota are strengthening protections for gun owners. The divide is clear for us gun owners and those who believe in the 2nd Amendment. We have some states that are doubling down on bans, while other states are reinforcing constitutional protections.
However, New Mexico’s stalled bill proves something important, These bans are not inevitable. When gun owners organize, testify, and stay engaged, legislation can be stopped.
But Make No Mistake — They Will Try Again
We always must make sure we never get complacent. Supporters of SB 17 have already signaled their intention to reintroduce similar legislation in future sessions. We have seen how this process often works, introduce a sweeping bill, test political appetite, adjust language, and try again next session.
Momentum builds slowly over time. That’s why vigilance cannot stop just because one bill fails. We must continue to stand together and fight for our freedom and birthright. As Ronald Reagan once said,
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”
What This Means for Minnesota and Beyond
At 2 If By Sea Tactical, Southern Minnesota’s premier Indoor Range and Firearms Store, we pay close attention to legislative trends across the country. Why? Because what begins in one state often shows up in another. We’re currently watching similar proposals here in Minnesota, including HF 3433 and SF 3654 — bills that would restrict commonly owned semi-automatic firearms. New Mexico proves these efforts can be defeated. Virginia reminds us they can also advance quickly if the political balance shifts.
Stay Engaged
We will always advocate on your behalf. We also encourage you to stay engaged. This victory belongs to the pro-gun groups, small business owners, and everyday citizens who made their voices heard. But the fight is not over. Anti-gun lawmakers are determined, organized, and patient. Gun owners must be the same. Stay vigilant. Stay engaged. If you are looking for a place to keep up to date on all things 2A, look no further than 2 If By Sea Tactical.
Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world. As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.
Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.
