Concealed Carry In Restaurants & Bars
If enacted, SB114 would represent a significant change in the regulatory framework governing firearms in public places, particularly in restaurants that serve liquor. The changes could enhance the rights of licensed individuals to carry concealed weapons, potentially increasing the number of firearms in social settings where alcohol is consumed. Proponents argue that this new provision might enhance personal security for lawful gun owners while dining out, as it empowers them to carry their firearms in venues where they previously could not do so.
Senate Bill 114 proposes to amend existing laws regarding the carrying of firearms in New Mexico, specifically allowing individuals with valid concealed handgun licenses to carry firearms in licensed restaurants that serve alcoholic beverages, provided that the establishment derives at least sixty percent of its annual gross receipts from food sales. This bill modifies Section 30-7-3 of the New Mexico Statutes by specifying conditions under which concealed carry is permitted and defining exceptions to the ban on firearms in establishments that serve alcohol.
The proposal has sparked considerable debate among legislators and the public. Supporters of SB114 advocate for individual rights and the ability for responsible gun owners to protect themselves in all environments, including restaurants. However, opponents express concerns over the implications for public safety, fearing that allowing more firearms into establishments serving alcohol could lead to increased risks of violence, accidents, or unintended consequences. The discussions surrounding this bill indicate a broader national dialogue about gun rights, public safety, and the balance between individual freedoms and community protection.