Relates to suspension and revocation of firearms licenses.
Summary
This bill would repeal most of Chapter 1 of the Laws of 2013, the law that amended the criminal procedure law and related statutes governing the suspension and revocation of firearms licenses in New York. By striking sections 1 through 32, 37 through 43, and 45 through 56 of that 2013 act, the bill would effectively undo the framework created by that legislation for handling firearms license suspensions and revocations.
The bill is written as a retroactive repeal, stating that it would take effect immediately and be deemed in force as of January 15, 2013. In practical terms, that language suggests an intent to nullify the 2013 changes from their inception, which could affect how firearms licensing actions are treated under state law and potentially raise questions about the status of actions taken under the repealed provisions.
Impact
If enacted, the bill would remove major portions of the statutory changes made in 2013 to New York’s firearms licensing laws, particularly those tied to suspension and revocation procedures. This would affect the Criminal Procedure Law and any other laws amended by Chapter 1 of the Laws of 2013, potentially altering the authority of licensing officials, law enforcement, and courts in firearms license cases. The retroactive effective date could also create legal uncertainty about past licensing decisions made under the 2013 framework.
Sentiment
No committee transcript or vote record is available, so there is no direct evidence of debate or recorded support/opposition in the materials provided. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears to be a repeal of a prior gun-control-related enactment, which typically signals support from legislators seeking to roll back firearms restrictions and opposition from those favoring the existing licensing and public-safety regime.
Contention
The central point of contention is likely whether New York should retain or repeal the 2013 firearms license suspension and revocation provisions. Supporters of repeal would likely argue that the prior law was overly restrictive or improperly expanded state authority over gun owners, while opponents would likely contend that the existing provisions are important tools for public safety and for removing firearms from individuals deemed unfit to hold a license. The retroactive language may also be controversial because it could affect past actions taken under the 2013 law.