Establishes the ammunition purchase certification act which requires purchasers of ammunition to have an ammunition purchase permit number.
Summary
A03825 would create the “ammunition purchase certification act” and add a new Penal Law section requiring anyone who buys ammunition in New York to have a valid ammunition purchase permit number issued by the Division of State Police. The bill directs State Police to serve as the processing point for permits and to set the rules for issuance, renewal, suspension, and revocation. It also requires a physical permit card with a unique identification number, allows use of either the card or number when purchasing ammunition, and makes the permit valid for one year.
The permit would be tied to a background check or an approved application process, with no additional issuance fee beyond the existing $2.50 charge at the time of initial purchase or application and at renewal. The bill also authorizes revocation of a permit number, requires written notice by certified mail, and directs that suspensions or revocations be recorded in the statewide license and record database. A person who buys ammunition without a valid permit number would commit a class A misdemeanor. The act would take effect on the first day of the twelfth month after enactment.
Impact
This bill would significantly expand New York’s ammunition purchasing regulations by adding a permit-number requirement for all ammunition buyers, creating a new administrative system within the Division of State Police, and establishing new criminal liability for noncompliance. It would affect ammunition purchasers, firearms and ammunition retailers, and state law enforcement agencies responsible for background checks, permit administration, and recordkeeping. The measure would amend the Penal Law by adding section 400.04 and would likely require new procedures and database updates for sellers and licensing authorities.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests the bill was controversial and not broadly supported in committee. On May 13, 2025, the Assembly Codes Committee held the bill for consideration by a 16-6 vote, indicating substantial support for further review but also notable opposition. No transcript excerpts are available, but the committee action implies the proposal was viewed as significant and potentially divisive, consistent with the broader policy debate over ammunition regulation and gun control.
Contention
The main points of contention are likely the new permit requirement for ammunition purchases, the role of State Police in administering the system, and the creation of a misdemeanor penalty for buying ammunition without a valid permit number. Supporters would likely argue the bill strengthens public safety through screening and traceability, while opponents would likely object to added bureaucracy, potential burdens on lawful gun owners and retailers, and the expansion of state control over ammunition access. The committee vote shows that these issues were enough to generate meaningful opposition even at the consideration stage.