Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris and state Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting the open carry of what are known as “long guns,” such as shotguns and rifles. Exceptions would be made for legitimate uses such as hunting.
“New York remains a leader in tackling the issue of gun violence,” said Gianaris. “Reasonable restrictions on the open carry of long guns will not only make people feel safer, but prevent injury and improve public safety.”
“Banning the open carry of rifles and shotguns is a common-sense and necessary step to safeguard public safety and prevent potential escalation of violence in our communities. New Yorkers should not have to wonder whether the person openly carrying a gun next to them in public is a good guy with a gun or a bad guy with a gun,” said Sillitti.
Based on the most recent publicly available data, approximately 2,000 deaths annually result from rifle and shotgun-related injuries.
Research suggests that the open carry of rifles and shotguns in public spaces increases aggressive and violent behaviors.
According to the Giffords Law Center, openly carrying guns in public can quickly escalate arguments into fatal incidents, intimidate and suppress the First Amendment rights of others, and create confusion for law enforcement responding to shootings.
“As the open carry of firearms becomes a go-to tool of dangerous extremists, today’s bill to prohibit the open carry of rifles and shotguns is a lifesaving piece of legislation that can further protect New Yorkers from gun violence and preserve our democracy,” said Barry Graubart, a volunteer with the New York chapter of Moms Demand Action. “Research demonstrates that the open carry of firearms can make it more likely that disagreement will become violent conflict, making this measure critical to keeping our communities safe. We’re grateful to Senator Gianaris and Assembly Member Sillitti for introducing this measure and continuing to put the safety of our communities and our democracy first, and we’re excited to fight for it to get passed through the legislature.”
Identical legislation has been passed in California, Connecticut, Florida, and Illinois, and Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia have also restricted the open carry of long guns.
