New Mexico Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What constitutes a 'prohibited person' from owning firearms under New Mexico law?

1. Anyone convicted of a felony

2. Anyone under the age of 21

3. Non-U.S. citizens

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Anyone convicted of a felony

In New Mexico, a 'prohibited person' is someone who is legally restricted from owning firearms due to specific criteria defined by law. One primary category includes individuals who have been convicted of a felony. This restriction exists because a felony conviction often indicates a significant level of criminal behavior that raises concerns about an individual’s ability to responsibly handle firearms. While being under the age of 21 and being a non-U.S. citizen can also impose restrictions on firearm ownership, the critical factor that often classifies someone as a prohibited person is the felony conviction. Therefore, focusing on felony convictions as a defining criterion underscores why this option is central to the definition of a 'prohibited person' in relation to firearms ownership. Individuals under 21 may be subject to certain age restrictions when it comes to specific types of firearms, but this does not apply universally to all firearm ownership scenarios. Similarly, while non-U.S. citizens may face restrictions, the law primarily emphasizes felony convictions when classifying prohibited persons. Thus, felony conviction stands out as a significant reason for someone to be deemed prohibited from firearm ownership under New Mexico law.