New Mexico Governor Stands Firm on Treating Gun Violence as a Public Health Crisis Despite Opposition

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has defended her decision to address gun violence as a public health crisis. She cited recent firearms seizures, decreased reports of gunfire in the Albuquerque area, and an increase in jail bookings as evidence for the need to address the issue. Lujan Grisham has extended an emergency public health order related to gun violence for an additional 30 days, despite provisions being temporarily blocked by a federal judge. The governor appeared at a news conference with various cabinet secretaries to discuss the efforts being made to combat gun violence and drugs.

Efforts to contain gun violence and drugs have been made possible through emergency orders, including the expansion of behavioral health services and funding for drug testing in schools. Lujan Grisham expressed her determination to eliminate gun violence as an epidemic and a public health emergency.

However, the governor has faced backlash from critics who argue that her public health order infringes on constitutional rights. Lujan Grisham stated that she is exploring opportunities for gun-free “safe spaces” amidst changing legal precedent. The issue of gun restrictions is now pending in court.

This case is one of many that have emerged following a Supreme Court decision last year that expanded gun rights. Lujan Grisham’s emergency orders also include measures such as monthly inspections of firearms dealers, reports on gunshot victims at hospitals, and voluntary gun-buyback programs.

Despite initial gun restrictions being scaled back, the governor’s health order still allows for the enforcement of gun restrictions in certain areas with high levels of violent crime. State police have been granted the authority to impose penalties and fines for infractions.