!["A Weapon Guide for the Uninformed"](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/01/b6/01b6456e8e500a4c135d3ac167b814b4.jpg?itok=y4TrdyvI ""A Weapon Guide for the Uninformed"")
House Bill 402, gun control legislation that would ban so-called assault weapons and large capacity magazines, will be discussed by the House Consumer and Public Affairs committee Thursday, Feb 21 at 1:30pm. This bill appears to be nearly identical to the NY SAFE Act which was recently introduced and passed in this year's session in New York state.
The bill would grandfather in "assault weapons" purchased prior to July 1, 2013, but would make it criminal to purchase them after that date. HB 402 would further criminalize assault weapons that are loaded, have a connected magazine, or is not rendered inoperative with a secure trigger lock. In other words, if you own an "assault weapon" now, you can still own it if this legislation passes, but it will be nothing more than a glorified paper weight.
The bill defines "assault weapons" as any semi-automatic rifle, shotgun, or revolving-cylinder shotgun that is not operated by bolt, lever, pump, or slide action.
You can read the full definition here beginning on page 4 of the bill.
The bill also defines "large capacity" magazines as any magazine that can carry over seven rounds of ammunition.
The House Consumer and Public Affairs committee is comprised of 3 Democrats and 2 Republicans. The committee chair is Rep. Eliseo Alcon who voted against HB 77 when it first appeared before the House Judiciary, allegedly because the bill included a state registry for all firearms. Rep. Alcon later voted for HB 77 which passed the House and is now onto to the Senate.
Members of the House Consumer and Public Affairs committee include:
Rep. Eliseo Alcon (D), Chair
Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero (D), Vice Chair
Rep. Thomas A. Anderson (R)
Rep. Gail Chasey (D)
Rep. Jason Harper (R)
New Mexicans who wish to voice their support or dissent on HB 402 are invited to appear for the committee meeting at 1:30pm in room 317. HB 402 is the first bill scheduled for discussion.
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