Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s recent emergency order to suspend the right to carry firearms in most public places around Albuquerque for 30 days has ignited a fierce debate and legal battle. Gun owners, state Republican lawmakers, and civil rights advocates have criticized the move, with some calling it unconstitutional.
Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen, who oversees the area containing Albuquerque, has refused to enforce the order, stating that it’s unconstitutional and won’t effectively address gun violence.
A gun-rights group has filed a federal lawsuit to block the order, while critics argue it infringes on the rights of law-abiding citizens. Some GOP state lawmakers have even proposed initiating impeachment proceedings against the governor.
While Lujan Grisham’s order applies to open and concealed carry in most public places and includes civil penalties, gun rights advocates argue it does nothing to curb gun violence. The ACLU has raised concerns about potential over-policing and privacy infringements.
The order comes in response to recent child shooting deaths, with the governor declaring a need to end such violence. It applies to areas with high violent crime rates, primarily metropolitan Albuquerque. Police and licensed security guards are exempt from the order.
Supporters of the order, including gun safety organizations and the Catholic Church, argue it’s a crucial step in addressing gun violence. New Mexico has had one of the highest rates of gun killings, according to 2021 data.
Gun rights activists have organized peaceful protests, expressing their opposition to the order. Sheriff Allen plans to push for a special legislative session to address violence in Albuquerque.
The controversy surrounding the order highlights the ongoing debate over gun control and constitutional rights in the United States.
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