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HB 38

POSSESSION OF WEAPON CONVERSION DEVICE

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kathleen Cates and 2 co-sponsors

HB 38 restricts or criminalizes possession of weapon conversion devices in New Mexico, targeting modifications that alter firearm functionality, but died in legislative process after committee approval.

action postponed indefinitely
#crimes&penalties
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Bill Summary · HB 38

Legislative bill overview

HB 38 addresses the possession of weapon conversion devices in New Mexico, likely establishing penalties or restrictions for owning devices that modify firearms to function in specific ways (such as converting semi-automatic weapons to fully automatic capability). The bill was introduced with bipartisan sponsorship but was postponed indefinitely after passing committee in February 2025.

Why is this important

Weapon conversion devices are a significant law enforcement concern because they can circumvent existing firearm regulations by modifying weapons' technical capabilities without replacing the underlying firearm. This intersects with both public safety objectives and Second Amendment interpretation, making it a politically sensitive legislative issue that states are increasingly addressing through criminal statutes.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over what constitutes a "conversion device"—does it include bump stocks, auto sears, 3D-printed components, or only certain categories? Overly broad definitions could inadvertently criminalize legal accessories.
  • Enforcement practicality: Questions about how authorities would detect possession of small or concealed conversion devices, and whether enforcement would target manufacturers, distributors, or individual possessors.
  • Constitutional challenges: Potential Second Amendment objections from advocates who view restrictions as infringements, versus public safety arguments that conversion devices circumvent lawful firearm regulations.

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

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