NM Legislator proposes private gun sale background checks

Rep. Miguel Garcia

A Democratic legislator from Albuquerque proposes to require background checks on people who buy firearms from private gun owners, including at gun shows. 

Rep. Miguel Garcia said Friday the checks would prevent sales of guns to people convicted of crimes and those with a history of mental illness.

 He will introduce the bill when the Legislature convenes next week. Federal law requires background checks for sales by licensed dealers in stores or at gun shows but it doesn't cover firearm sales between private individuals, whether at a gun show or someone's home. 

Garcia acknowledged at a news conference that it will be difficult to win approval of his proposal, but said there may be more support for the measure because of last month's mass shooting at a Connecticut school.

NM Legislator proposes private gun sale background checks