New Mexico lawmakers are taking significant steps to enhance public safety through proposed changes to the Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order (IRPO) Act. During a recent Senate Health and Public Affairs meeting, House Bill 12 was introduced, aiming to empower law enforcement to act more decisively in high-risk situations involving firearms.

The bill, presented by Representative Garrett and supported by several co-sponsors, seeks to amend the existing IRPO law, which has been in effect since 2020. Key changes include allowing law enforcement officers to file petitions for IRPOs based on credible information gathered during their official duties, rather than relying solely on reports from the public. This adjustment is expected to streamline the process and enable quicker responses to potential threats.

Another critical aspect of House Bill 12 is the mandate for immediate relinquishment of firearms upon the service of a protection order, replacing the previous 48-hour grace period. Advocates argue that this change will significantly reduce the risk of harm during the interim period, ensuring that individuals at risk receive immediate protection.

Supporters of the bill, including representatives from various advocacy groups, emphasized the urgency of these amendments. They shared personal stories highlighting the dangers posed by the existing law, which allowed firearms to remain in potentially dangerous situations for too long. Testimonies from community members underscored the need for law enforcement to have effective tools to prevent gun violence and protect vulnerable individuals.

The proposed changes have garnered widespread support, with no opposition voiced during the meeting. As the bill moves forward, it represents a concerted effort by New Mexico legislators to address gun violence and enhance public safety through practical legislative measures. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the bill, with advocates hopeful for swift passage to implement these crucial reforms.