New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05597

Introduced
2/18/25  
Refer
2/18/25  

Caption

Allows persons participating in certain formal ceremonies to possess a firearm, rifle or shotgun, provided that such person has received prior approval from the municipality or other appropriate entity.

Summary

Bill A05597 amends the New York penal law to allow individuals participating in specific formal ceremonies, such as military ceremonies, funerals, and honor guards, to possess firearms, rifles, or shotguns. This provision is contingent upon obtaining prior approval from either the municipality where the ceremony takes place or the military, law enforcement, or fire prevention organization hosting the event. The bill aims to facilitate the honoring of individuals who have served their community or country by allowing ceremonial gunfire, such as a twenty-one gun salute, under regulated circumstances.

Impact

The bill modifies existing firearm possession laws in New York by creating an exception for individuals involved in designated formal ceremonies. This change impacts the penal law, specifically section 265.01-e, by expanding the list of individuals permitted to carry firearms under certain conditions. It may also influence local municipalities and organizations that host such ceremonies, as they will need to establish protocols for granting approvals to participants.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A05597 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for honoring military and public service personnel through formal ceremonies. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications of allowing firearms in public ceremonies, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about gun control and public safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from differing views on gun ownership and public safety. Proponents argue that the bill respects and honors those who serve, while opponents may express concerns about the potential risks associated with increased firearm presence in public settings, even under regulated conditions. The balance between honoring tradition and ensuring safety is likely to be a focal point of debate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A00651

Allows persons participating in certain formal ceremonies to possess a firearm, rifle or shotgun, provided that such person has received prior approval from the municipality or other appropriate entity.

NY S03195

Allows persons participating in certain formal ceremonies to possess a firearm, rifle or shotgun, provided that such person has received prior approval from the municipality or other appropriate entity.

NY S01025

Exempts certain persons engaging in certain firearm safety shooting instruction or persons engaging in wildlife control or management from the provisions of criminal possession of a firearm, rifle or shotgun in a sensitive location when such person possesses a firearm, rifle or shotgun in or upon a sensitive location, and such person knows or reasonably should know such location is a sensitive location.

NY A03205

Authorizes the possession of a firearm, shotgun or rifle in certain sport shooting and target practice facilities; provides that current restrictions on possession of a firearm, shotgun or rifle shall not include otherwise lawful possession for the purpose of participating in shooting sports, including practice and competition.

NY S03420

Relates to criminal penalties for possession, theft, or sale of stolen firearms, shotguns and rifles.

NY A01210

Establishes a three calendar day waiting period from contact of the New York State National Instant Background Check System (NYS NICS) before a firearm, shotgun or rifle may be delivered to a person; provides exceptions where a person possesses a license to carry or possess a pistol, revolver, or semiautomatic rifle.

NY S09636

Relates to revoking a license to carry, possess, repair and dispose of firearms for a conviction for failure to safely store rifles, shotguns, and firearms.

NY A00198

Relates to establishing a voluntary waiver of the right to purchase firearms, rifles or shotguns; requires the division of state police to maintain statewide records of individuals who have waived the right to purchase firearms, rifles, or shotguns and any revocations of such waivers.

NY S01026

Relates to establishing a voluntary waiver of the right to purchase firearms, rifles or shotguns; requires the division of state police to maintain statewide records of individuals who have waived the right to purchase firearms, rifles, or shotguns and any revocations of such waivers.

NY S09334

Relates to consumer warnings regarding rifles, shotguns, and firearms; provides that a graphic warning that depicts the nature of the health and safety risks of firearms be provided when any license or permit is issued or amended.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.