New Mexico: Important Information about Pre-Filed House Bill 91

On Wednesday, January 6, state Representative Nate Gentry (R-ABQ) pre-filed House Bill 91, a measure that would bring New Mexico into compliance with the federal NICS Improvement Amendments Act of 2007.  HB 91 would require the reporting of records of persons who have been “adjudicated as a mental defective or committed to a mental institution.”  In addition to this reporting requirement, HB 91 provides for restoration of an individual’s right to possess a firearm through the court system.  The bill will make the state eligible for federal grant money to improve recordkeeping and reporting, and recognizes that the existing background check system's effectiveness is tied to the quality of the data contained in it.  HB 91 does not expand any federal prohibited categories for firearm possession or purchase.  As previously reported, NRA-ILA has supported similar measures in past legislative sessions.