The bill amends Section 30-7-16 of the New Mexico Statutes to increase the penalties for felons found in possession of firearms. Under the new provisions, a felon who violates this section will be guilty of a second-degree felony for a first offense and a first-degree felony for any subsequent offenses. This replaces the previous penalty structure, which classified a felon found in possession of a firearm as guilty of a third-degree felony. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions of "felon" and "serious violent felon," establishing specific criteria regarding the time since conviction and conditions of pardon or deferred sentences.

Furthermore, the bill maintains the existing prohibitions against firearm possession for individuals subject to protective orders or those convicted of certain crimes, but it now categorizes the penalties for these offenses as misdemeanors. The definitions of "firearm" and "destructive device" are also included to provide clarity on the terms used within the law. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding firearm possession by felons, thereby enhancing public safety.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 30-7-16