The bill amends the Concealed Handgun Carry Act in New Mexico by introducing new definitions and clarifying the qualifications and processes for obtaining and renewing a concealed handgun carry license. Notable changes include the definition of a "concealed handgun," the inclusion of lawful permanent residents as eligible applicants, and the removal of the requirement for a refresher firearms training course for license renewal. Additionally, the bill establishes a process for transferring a concealed handgun license from another state, which requires applicants to provide proof of residency, age, and completion of an approved firearms training course. The legislation also outlines specific terms for carrying a concealed handgun, such as prohibiting alcohol consumption while carrying and requiring licensees to display their license upon demand by law enforcement.

Moreover, the bill updates existing laws regarding the lawful carrying of firearms, specifying that peace officers must adhere to their agency's policies and be certified under the Law Enforcement Training Act. It allows temporary peace officers who have completed a prescribed firearms instruction course to carry firearms in accordance with their agency's policies. The language regarding individuals with concealed handgun licenses is also updated to refer to them as "the person" instead of "him," and it clarifies that nothing in this section prohibits the carrying of unloaded firearms. Lastly, the bill changes the classification of unlawful carrying of a deadly weapon from a petty misdemeanor to a different classification, although the specific new classification is not detailed in the text.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 29-19-2, 29-19-4, 29-19-6, 29-19-7, 29-19-12, 30-7-2
JU substitute: 29-19-2, 29-19-4, 29-19-6, 29-19-7, 29-19-12, 30-7-2