Oldies 101.5 - WXHC.com

Local Forums on Revised Gun Laws Prompt Passionate Debate

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Members of the State Police and the State Division of Criminal Justice Services are holding meetings across the state to explain the new State gun laws and regulations. One of the forums was held in Ithaca Tuesday, another is scheduled tonight in LaFayette at 5 o’clock in the LaFayette Town Hall, located at 2577 on Route 11.

Several gun owners voiced their concern and frustrations with the new laws at the forum in Ithaca last night. Some speakers urged State Police not to enforce the new laws saying they are unconstitutional.

Other speakers praised the new law including the more stringent requirements like back ground checks for bullet purchases.

The new rules begin taking effect in March; by March 15th background checks will be required for private gun sales. Then by April 15th registration for assault weapons begins, and ammunition magazine sales will be limited to 7 rounds.

By January 15th of 2014; background checks will be required for ammunition purchases and any magazines holding more than 10 rounds must be sold, discarded, or modified. By April 15th, 2014 all assault weapons must be registered with the New York State Police.

People who already own a banned semiautomatic rifle can keep those weapons, but cannot sell them in New York.

Banned guns cannot be passed to family members after the owner dies.

For specific questions about the new gun laws go to governor.ny.gov/2013/gun-reforms-faq. Or call the state hotline: 1-855-LAWGUNS.