New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a comprehensive set of proposals aimed at addressing the proliferation of 3D-printed guns and illegal firearms throughout the state. This initiative seeks to enhance public safety and build upon New York’s already strict gun laws, introducing new penalties for unauthorized manufacturing and possession of digital firearm schematics.
Legislative Proposals Targeting Gun Violence
The proposed legislation includes mandatory safety standards for manufacturers of 3D printers, ensuring that firearms cannot be easily converted into illegal machine guns. According to a press release from the Governor’s Office, these measures are part of an ongoing effort to combat gun violence, which has seen a significant 60 percent drop in statewide shootings since Kathy Hochul took office in 2021.
The legislative package would criminalize the sale, distribution, or possession of digital instructions for the illegal manufacture of firearms and their components without a license. Furthermore, it mandates the reporting of 3D-printed firearms to an official database, thereby increasing accountability and tracking. The Governor aims to establish minimum safety standards in the production of 3D printers, addressing the potential risks associated with 3D-printed weaponry.
Another key aspect of the proposals is the focus on curbing the rapid modification of semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic variants. This includes targeting illegal devices, such as Glock switches, that facilitate such transformations. The Governor’s office believes that these measures will significantly reduce the number of illegal firearms in circulation.
Support from Law Enforcement and Advocacy Groups
The proposed initiatives have garnered support from various law enforcement officials and gun safety advocates. Alvin Bragg, New York County District Attorney, emphasized the importance of these proposals for crime reduction, stating, “These illegal firearms are being manufactured in homes and used in crimes right now.” He noted his collaboration with colleagues in Albany and the private sector over the past several years to combat this growing issue.
Angela Ferrell-Zabala, Executive Director of Moms Demand Action, also praised the Governor’s plan, highlighting its dual focus on prevention and accountability to address the emergence of DIY machine guns within communities. The commitment to tackling gun violence has been a consistent priority for Governor Hochul, who has overseen an investment of $1.27 billion in various initiatives during her tenure.
The upcoming fiscal year 2026 budget includes $347 million specifically allocated for gun violence prevention measures. These funds will support community outreach initiatives, law enforcement upgrades, and programs aimed at providing at-risk youth with alternatives to involvement in gun-related activities.
Governor Hochul’s proactive approach reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing public safety in New York, aiming to set a precedent for addressing the challenges posed by evolving gun technology while maintaining the highest safety standards.
