Cuomo signs law expanding firearms storage to protect children
Governor also signs legislation criminalizing 3D printed guns
Press Release, Gov. Andrew Cuomo
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation criminalizing the manufacture, sale, transport and possession of firearms and major components of such weapons that are undetectable by a metal detector, including 3D printed guns (S.1414-A/A.0763-A), and expanding laws requiring the safe storage of firearms (S.6360/A.8174).
This legislation builds on New York’s strongest in the nation gun laws, including the Red Flag Bill signed in February that prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing or possessing a firearm, and legislation Governor Cuomo signed yesterday extending the background check waiting period and banning bump stocks.
“3D guns and improperly stored firearms pose an enormous risk to our children and today we’re addressing both dangers head-on to keep our families safe,” Governor Cuomo said. “These measures continue New York’s legacy of enacting the strongest gun laws in the nation by helping keep firearms out of the hands of children and by acknowledging and addressing technological advancements like 3D printed guns.”
Criminalizing Undetectable Firearms
Recent technological developments, such as 3-dimensional printers and laser cutting machines, have led to the fabrication of fully operational firearms using materials that are undetectable by metal detectors. These weapons pose a serious threat to public safety and risk the health and well-being of all New Yorkers. This measure helps protect New Yorkers by making it illegal for any person to knowingly possess, manufacture, sell or transport such weapons in New York State.
Amending Safe Storage Laws
By enacting some of the strongest safe storage measures in the nation, Governor Cuomo has taken enormous strides toward preventing unnecessary gun violence across New York State. However, until now, our laws have failed to address the unintended – and often deadly – consequences of leaving unsecured firearms in places accessible by children.
This measure will ensure that firearm owners safely store their weapons when they live with someone under the age of 16 or have reason to know will be accessible by someone under the age of 16. At the same time, it will continue to permit properly licensed or supervised individuals under the age of 16 to hunt or practice at a firing range in accordance with existing law. Nicholas Naumkin, a 12-year-old from Saratoga Springs who was tragically killed by his friend while he was playing with his father’s gun, inspired this legislation.
Rebecca Fischer, executive director of New Yorkers Against Gun Violence, said, “Today, New York State has again made it a priority to protect our children and communities with this strong, sensible gun violence prevention legislation. New Yorkers Against Gun Violence has been fighting for 25 years for a child access prevention law in New York State to prevent unintentional shootings, teen suicides, school shootings, and gun thefts. We are grateful to Governor Cuomo and to our New York lawmakers who have the courage to take action and enact life-saving laws.”
