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HB 162

REPEAL FIREARM SALE WAITING PERIOD

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John Block and 4 co-sponsors

HB 162 eliminates New Mexico's mandatory firearm sale waiting period, allowing immediate gun purchases but removing a potential safety mechanism reducing impulsive violence and suicide.

action postponed indefinitely
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Bill Summary · HB 162

Legislative bill overview

HB 162 would eliminate New Mexico's firearm sale waiting period, allowing immediate gun purchases rather than requiring a mandatory delay between purchase and delivery. The bill was introduced in January 2025 but had its hearing postponed indefinitely in June 2025, effectively stalling its progress.

Why this is important

Waiting periods are a contentious gun policy tool with documented effects on outcomes: research suggests they reduce firearm suicides and impulsive violent acts, but proponents argue they create unnecessary delays for law-abiding citizens exercising constitutional rights. This bill represents a direct clash between public safety mechanisms and access advocacy in a state with moderately restrictive gun laws.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety data: Opponents cite studies showing waiting periods prevent suicide and crime; supporters counter that enforcement against criminals is more effective and that law-abiding citizens shouldn't be delayed
  • Constitutional interpretation: Disagreement over whether waiting periods constitute reasonable regulation or infringement on Second Amendment rights
  • Rural vs. urban concerns: Rural areas may have different practical needs (gun ownership for wildlife management) versus urban safety priorities regarding spontaneous violence

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

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