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New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued an emergency public health order temporarily suspending the right to carry firearms in public areas across Albuquerque and surrounding Bernalillo County.
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This action was taken in response to recent shootings, including the death of an 11-year-old boy near a minor league baseball stadium.
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While the governor expects legal challenges, she believes this measure is necessary for public safety.
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The firearms suspension applies to both open and concealed carry in most public places, excluding police and licensed security guards.
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Violators could face civil penalties and fines of up to $5,000.
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The order allows residents to transport guns to certain private locations, provided they are secured and unable to discharge.
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Albuquerque police Chief Harold Medina has stated that he will not enforce the order, and Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen expressed concerns about potential constitutional rights issues.
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Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of the debate surrounding measures to enhance safety for New Mexicans.
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The governor cited recent shootings, including incidents resulting in the deaths of children, as reasons for implementing this temporary ban.
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Since 2019, Governor Lujan Grisham has signed various legislation restricting access to guns, including a "red flag" law and extended background-check requirements for private gun sales.
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