© 2024 KRWG
News that Matters.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Gun Restrictions Stall In NM Legislative Panel

A proposal requiring criminal background checks of people buying firearms from private sellers has stalled in the Legislature.

The measure failed Monday on a tie vote in the House Judiciary Committee, with one Democrat joining Republicans in opposing it.

Democratic Rep. Miguel Garcia of Albuquerque said supporters will try to revamp the bill and bring it up for another vote later.

Garcia said his proposal would help prevent sales of firearms to felons and others prohibited from buying firearms.

Opponents, including the National Rifle Association, said the bill won't stop criminals from acquiring guns because they typically don't try to buy firearms at gun shows.

Federal law requires background checks for sales by licensed dealers in stores or at gun shows, but it doesn't cover firearm sales between private individuals

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.