Governor Kathy Hochul is planning to introduce a new law that would block a proposal by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF) allowing people to buy guns online and have them shipped directly to their homes.
The ATF's plan has been met with opposition from some New York residents who believe it will make it easier for individuals to obtain firearms. Brandon Lewis, owner of the Firing Pin gun shop in Bergen, supports the idea, stating that consumers should have more choices and less regulation when buying guns online. He suggests that the same safety mechanisms currently in place for shipping prescription medications or alcohol could be applied to gun sales.
Currently, New York residents who buy guns online must have them shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee like the Firing Pin, where they can pick up their purchase after completing background checks and filling out paperwork. Hochul's proposed law would require the final sale of a gun purchased online to take place in person at an FFL.
Anthony Kuhn, an attorney with Tully Rinckey, believes that New York's plan is likely legal under Second Amendment laws. He notes that restrictions similar to this one have been upheld in court before. Paul Adell Jr., a member of the Rochester African American Firearms Association, also supports direct-to-home shipping if proper checks are in place.
Hochul is expected to introduce her proposal in the next legislative session in January. State Attorney General Letitia James has also expressed opposition to the ATF's plan, citing concerns that it could lead to increased gun violence and make it easier for individuals to circumvent background checks using technology like artificial intelligence and deepfakes.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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