The bill amends Section 1-20-24 NMSA 1978 to create an exemption for commissioned law enforcement officers regarding the unlawful possession of firearms at polling places. Under the current law, it is illegal for any person to possess a loaded or unloaded firearm within specified distances of polling locations during early voting and on election day. The bill clarifies that this prohibition does not apply to certified law enforcement officers performing their official duties, as well as commissioned law enforcement officers with arrest powers acting in accordance with their agency's policies.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing exemptions for individuals in private vehicles and those carrying concealed firearms with a valid license. It also specifies that individuals conducting lawful, non-election-related business within the defined proximity of polling places are not guilty of unlawful possession. Violations of this law remain classified as a petty misdemeanor, with penalties outlined in Section 31-19-1 NMSA 1978. The definition of "firearm" is also reiterated, ensuring clarity on what constitutes a firearm under this law.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 1-20-24
Final Version: 1-20-24