New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S06403

Introduced
3/13/25  
Refer
3/13/25  

Caption

Establishes a private cause of action for certain violations regarding machine-guns, assault weapons, disguised guns, ghost guns, and unfinished frames or receivers.

Summary

Bill S06403 aims to amend the general business law and civil practice law and rules in New York to establish a private cause of action for violations related to machine-guns, assault weapons, disguised guns, ghost guns, and unfinished frames or receivers. The bill outlines specific prohibitions against the manufacture, distribution, and sale of these firearms, with certain exceptions for law enforcement and licensed gunsmiths. It also provides a framework for individuals to seek civil remedies against those who violate these prohibitions, including statutory damages and attorney's fees.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly impact the regulation of firearms in New York by empowering private individuals to enforce compliance with the law through civil actions. It introduces a new legal avenue for residents to hold violators accountable, potentially leading to increased litigation surrounding firearm regulations. The bill does not alter existing criminal laws but establishes a civil framework that operates alongside them, thereby reinforcing the state's commitment to controlling the distribution and possession of certain firearms.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill S06403 appears to be mixed, with proponents arguing that it enhances public safety by providing a mechanism for private enforcement of firearm regulations. Critics, however, may view it as an overreach that could lead to frivolous lawsuits and unintended consequences for lawful gun owners and businesses. The lack of recorded votes or committee discussions suggests that the bill's fate is still uncertain and may require further deliberation.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns about the potential for abuse of the private cause of action, which some fear could lead to excessive litigation against gun owners and dealers. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the balance between enforcing gun regulations and protecting Second Amendment rights. Stakeholders such as gun rights advocates and public safety proponents may hold opposing views on the bill's implications.

Companion Bills

NY A07810

Same As Establishes a private cause of action for certain violations regarding machine-guns, assault weapons, disguised guns, ghost guns, and unfinished frames or receivers.

Previously Filed As

NY A07810

Establishes a private cause of action for certain violations regarding machine-guns, assault weapons, disguised guns, ghost guns, and unfinished frames or receivers.

NY HB850

Unserialized firearms ("ghost guns"); create crime of possession of.

NY HB434

Unserialized firearms ("ghost guns"); create crime of possession of.

NY HB2571

prohibited weapons; machine guns

NY SF3661

Prohibit the sale and possession of ghost guns

NY AB1263

Firearms: ghost guns.

NY SB31

Firearms; possession of machine guns prohibited; criminal penalty for violating established

NY S09215

Relates to certain types of imitation guns, including air rifles, pellet guns, and "B-B" guns.

NY HB05043

An Act Concerning Convertible Pistols, Unfinished Frames Or Unfinished Lower Receivers, Voluntary Relinquishment Of Firearms And Ammunition And Refundability Of Permits For Sale At Retail Of Firearms And For Carrying Of Pistols And Revolvers.

NY HF5140

Ownership, possession, and sale of semiautomatic military-style assault weapons and large-capacity magazines regulated; provisions for possessing dangerous weapons in schools, negligently storing firearms, and reporting on law enforcement firearms discharge modified; ghost guns criminalized; other gun safety provisions modified; and money appropriated.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.