Currents in the national debate over gun regulations are converging on New Mexico as the state Legislature prepares to meet.
A Republican state lawmaker pre-filed legislation this week to allow people to carry a concealed handgun without a concealed carry license if they can meet essential requirements. Missouri, West Virginia and Idaho enacted similar measures last year that allow concealed weapons without a permit.
GOP Sen. Steven Neville of Aztec says his proposal will be a tough sell in New Mexico's Legislature, where Democrats hold a majority.
Leading Democratic lawmakers want to close the so-called gun show loophole by requiring background checks on nearly all private firearms transactions. Another anticipated proposal would make it illegal for aggressors in domestic violence cases to possess a firearm while under a protective order.
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