Governor Hochul signs laws to strengthen New York’s gun safety measures
New York Governor Signs Legislation to Combat Gun Violence
In a decisive move to curb gun violence, Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has enacted three new laws, marking a significant step in the state’s ongoing public safety efforts. This legislative action coincides with the announcement of a notable 53% reduction in shootings across the state, compared to the heights seen during the pandemic.
Emphasizing the importance of these measures, Governor Hochul stated, “We’re taking action to drive down gun violence in the State of New York — protecting our communities and making our streets safer. Public safety is my number one priority, and by giving law enforcement additional tools to stop gun violence in its tracks, we’re building on our promise to put the safety of New Yorkers first.”
Details of the New Legislation
The newly signed laws introduce significant changes, including stringent penalties for the use of “pistol converters,” which are devices that can convert semi-automatic pistols into rapid-fire weapons. State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal highlighted the dangers of such modifications, noting, “These rapid-fire modification devices include a wide range of gun modification devices including bump stocks, trigger cranks, and burst trigger systems.”
Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon expressed her support for the legislation, criticizing weapons manufacturers for their role in the gun violence epidemic: “New Yorkers are sick of weapons manufacturers ignoring their role in the gun violence epidemic.”
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Another significant aspect of the legislation mandates credit and debit card issuers to categorize transactions at firearms and ammunition retailers distinctly. State Senator Zellnor Myrie supported this measure, asserting, “New York can show the way forward by passing new laws to stop the sale of weapons that can be converted into machine guns.”
The third law requires firearms dealers to provide customers with information about the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and warnings about the risks associated with gun ownership. State Senator Michael Gianaris emphasized the importance of education in responsible gun ownership, stating, “Education and information are key to responsible gun ownership, which will prevent injury and improve public safety.”
Investment in Public Safety
Accompanying these legislative measures, Governor Hochul’s budget plan includes a $370 million investment aimed at combating gun violence. This funding is allocated to various initiatives, including the Law Enforcement Technology grant program and the SNUG Street Outreach Program, which are designed to support communities disproportionately affected by crime and enhance overall public safety in New York.
Assemblymember Tony Simone highlighted the critical need to address the intertwined issues of mental health and gun violence, stating, “We must do everything in our power as lawmakers to combat it. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the legislature in our resoluteness to solve these epidemics playing out in our communities.”
With these new laws, New York State reinforces its commitment to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining public safety as a paramount concern.
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