On February 7, 2026, the New Mexico Senate passed Senate Bill 17, a Democrat-backed bill known as the “Stop Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act.” The purported purpose of this proposed act is to combat illegal gun trafficking, straw purchasing, and reduce gun violence by tightening regulations on firearms dealers and restricting certain sales.
A core provision is a ban on sales of “extremely dangerous weapons” to non-federal firearm licensees. SB 17 would define the “extremely dangerous weapons” to be banned as (1) detachable magazines holding more than ten rounds; (2) .50 BMG cartridges; (3) .50 BMG rifles; (4) gas‑operated semiautomatic firearms that can accept a detachable magazine; (5) gas‑operated semiautomatic firearms with a fixed magazine with a capacity of more than ten rounds; and (6) machine guns. Exceptions are provided for firearms chambered for .22 caliber or less rimfire ammunition, antique firearms, semiautomatic handguns that use recoil to cycle the action, and firearms with a fixed magazine with a capacity of ten rounds or less. There are also “exceptions” for single shot firearms, breach loading firearms that accept no more than two cartridges (i.e., double barrel firearms), muzzle loading firearms, and manually operated firearms (bolt, lever, and pump), but such firearms would never fall within the definition of an “extremely dangerous weapon.” The inclusion of “gas-operated semiautomatic firearms” would serve as a broad ban on many popular firearms, including all AR-style rifles and pistols. If SB 17 becomes law, the ban on “extremely dangerous weapons” would take effect on July 1, 2026. The firearms to be prohibited by SB 17 are similar to Colorado Senate Bill 25-003, which was signed into law last year.
Other provisions of SB 17 would impose extensive new operating conditions on firearms dealers, including requirements for monitored alarm systems, hardened doors and windows, video surveillance, secure after-hours firearm storage, detailed inventory recordkeeping requirements, and signage. The act would also require that all employees of firearms dealers receive specific state-developed training, and that employees participating in the sale or disposition of firearms be at least twenty-one years old. Violations would carry criminal misdemeanor liability and civil penalties. The bill now moves to the New Mexico House of Representatives for further consideration.
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP will continue to monitor new and developing firearms related legislation around the country. If you have any questions concerning firearms-related legislation, please contact Christopher Renzulli.