SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico lawmakers have prefiled a sweeping firearms dealer regulation bill ahead of the 2026 legislative session, expanding state oversight of federally licensed firearms dealers and imposing new security, reporting and inspection requirements.
The proposal, Senate Prefile 232564.4, titled the Stop Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act, would require firearms dealers to adopt specified security measures, maintain expanded sales and inventory records, report multiple firearm sales and thefts, and submit to inspections. The bill would also establish a minimum age for employment at firearms dealerships and require dealers to post legal and safety notices for purchasers.
The legislation comes as gun dealers across New Mexico continue to navigate uncertainty following a federal court decision questioning the constitutionality of the state’s seven-day firearm waiting period law — confusion that Sen. Crystal Brantley, R-Sierra County, says is becoming a recurring problem.
“They may have the votes to pass them and even a governor that will sign them, but they will be challenged in a court of law, they will be overturned, and it creates chaos for New Mexicans,” Brantley said in a recent video posted to social media. “As we move forward this legislative session, let’s at least pass bills that are constitutional.”
Brantley previously sought formal guidance from the Attorney General’s Office after the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals halted enforcement of the waiting-period law, leaving firearms dealers unsure whether the law remains in effect pending further district court action.
Supporters of the new prefile argue tighter regulation of dealers is necessary to prevent illegal gun trafficking and theft, while critics warn the measure places additional burdens on law-abiding businesses and could expose the state to further constitutional challenges.
The bill has not yet been formally introduced or assigned to committee. Lawmakers are expected to take it up when the Legislature convenes Tuesday at noon.
