ERPO law can save lives

letters-to-the-editor2
Submitted Submitted Submitted By Submitted
Published Modified

New Mexico’s extreme risk protection order law (ERPO) gives the court authority to issue an order that temporarily keeps firearms out of the hands of people who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Currently, a person who poses a significant threat of harm to themselves or others is given 48 hours to relinquish their firearms. That is a completely unrealistic expectation. Other states with ERPO laws require immediate relinquishment and authorize a police officer to get a search warrant, day or night, if the person fails to turn over their firearms. Without these provisions, law enforcement is reluctant to use this law. HB 27, introduced by Reps. Chandler and Garratt, addresses the concerns of law

enforcement, and streamlines the process. Their bill incorporates best practices from other states. Tell your legislators and the governor that New Mexico needs HB 27.

Michael Brown

Santa Fe

letters opinion
Powered by Labrador CMS