An image divided into two parts: on the left, several numbered guns on a red cloth; on the right, a gray-haired man in a dark suit speaking at a podium. — AMLO sought to regulate citizens' weapons | La Derecha Diario

Camara — AMLO sought to regulate citizens' weapons | La Derecha Diario

AMLO's proposed reform to the Arms Law was discussed again in the Senate

The Senate resumed the initiative to reform the Arms Law. Experts warn of its possible consequences

27/03/2025 16:02:00h

Editorial Team

In the Senate of the Republic, the reform to the Federal Law on Firearms and Explosives is at the center of the debate. The initiative was sent by the former president López Obrador before the end of his term and has been taken up by Morena legislators.

The proposal is presented as protection for vulnerable sectors, but some experts warn that it could mean a setback in the right to self-defense.

Experts on the subject have pointed out that, instead of expanding rights, the reform could further restrict legal access to firearms for citizens seeking to protect themselves.

A group of people in formal suits and safety glasses holds toy guns with orange gloves in an outdoor setting.

Experts in the use and handling of weapons claim that the disarmament campaign won't affect criminals | La Derecha Diario

What does the Arms Law reform propose?

The initiative seeks to facilitate the carrying of firearms for laborers, ejidatarios, and communal landholders, according to its promoters in the Senate. From the parliamentary group of Morena, the proposal has been justified as a measure to strengthen security in rural areas.

However, experts like Ángel Banderas, a consultant on responsible gun use, state that this modificationdoesn't introduce substantial changes. The law in force since 1972 already contemplates the right of these sectors to carry firearms, so the reform would not represent a real improvement.

According to Banderas, the proposal seems more oriented toward restricting the rights of citizens who wish to exercise self-defense. If approved, it could create more obstacles for those seeking to obtain a firearm legally.

A collection of rifles and pistols laid out on a table in an outdoor setting.

Mexico is the 5th country with the most weapons in circulation | La Derecha Diario

Possible consequences of the reform

Lawyer Santiago Barroso, a specialist in personal defense, considers that this reform could be one of the greatest setbacks in security matters since 1973. He assures that the initiative sent in 2024 and taken up by Morenafurther limits the right of citizens to protect themselves against the growing insecurity.

For Barroso, the right to self-defense is in a critical situation with this proposal.

"'If approved, it would leave the population more vulnerable, while criminals would continue to operate without restrictions'' he commented.

The Mexican government launched a federal disarmament campaign | La Derecha Diario

The Mexican Association of Firearms Users (AMUAF) expressed its dissatisfaction through a letter to the Senate and the Presidency of the Republic. In the document, the organization has made clear its rejection of the reform and has warned that it will take legal action if the initiative is approved.

Members of AMUAF fear that the new legislation will leave citizens defenseless against violence. They argue that disarming society without ensuring a reinforcement in public security would put many families at risk.

Meanwhile, as the debate continues, it is expected that in the coming days the Senate will define the course of this reform. The decision could mark a turning point in the regulation of firearms in Mexico, generating consequences for both those who support and those who oppose the measure.

A group of people, some in military uniforms, watch as a man with a helmet and safety glasses handles a rifle at a public event.

President Sheinbaum during the disarmament campaign | La Derecha Diario

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