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HB 81

PERMITLESS CARRY OF FIREARMS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by John Block and 2 co-sponsors

HB 81 eliminates New Mexico's concealed carry permit requirement, allowing residents to carry hidden firearms without state permission or documentation.

action postponed indefinitely
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Bill Summary · HB 81

Legislative bill overview

HB 81 would allow New Mexico residents to carry concealed firearms without obtaining a permit from the state. Currently, New Mexico requires individuals to apply for and receive a concealed carry permit before carrying a hidden firearm in public. This bill would eliminate that permitting requirement.

Why is this important

Concealed carry permitting systems generate revenue for states and create a documented record of who carries firearms. Removing this requirement would shift New Mexico's firearms policy toward "constitutional carry" (carried in roughly 28 states), while reducing state oversight of firearm possession and eliminating a regulatory checkpoint that some view as essential public safety infrastructure.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents argue permits enable background checks and create accountability mechanisms; supporters counter that constitutional rights shouldn't require permits
  • Revenue impact: The state loses permit application fees and associated funding for law enforcement and sheriffs' offices that administer programs
  • Law enforcement coordination: Police argue permit databases help with criminal investigations and officer safety; proponents say this is unnecessary burden on lawful citizens
  • Interstate reciprocity: Current permits have reciprocal agreements with other states; permitless carry creates legal complexity for traveling armed individuals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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