Bill > HB248

This bill creates a new criminal offense called "unlawful carrying of a firearm while trafficking a controlled substance" in New Mexico. Specifically, the law makes it a third-degree felony for an individual to carry a firearm while simultaneously committing drug trafficking, as defined under Section 30-31-20 of New Mexico statutes. The bill broadly defines a "firearm" as any weapon capable of expelling a projectile through an explosive action, including the weapon's frame or receiver. If convicted, the offender would be sentenced according to Section 31-18-15 of New Mexico statutes. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, and is designed to add an additional criminal penalty for individuals who are engaged in drug trafficking while also carrying a weapon, likely with the intent of deterring both drug-related crimes and potential gun violence associated with such criminal activities.

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https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=248&year=25