Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Summary
This bill would amend the Penal Law to create a limited legal framework for the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense. It would allow adults to possess and use these devices on property they own or lease, where they reside, or within a business they own or lease, so long as the use would otherwise be justified under New York’s self-defense rules. The bill also excludes people under 18 and people with certain felony or assault convictions from the exemption.
The measure directs the Department of Health, working with the Division of Criminal Justice Services and the State Police Superintendent, to set standards for lawful devices, including a maximum delivered charge and warning-label requirements. It also authorizes licensed firearms dealers, and other approved vendors, to sell these devices subject to proof-of-age and sworn-statement requirements, recordkeeping, and a limit of two devices per purchaser at one time. In addition, the bill expands the crime of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device to include the use of an electronic dart gun or electronic stun gun against a police or peace officer.
Impact
The bill would change New York Penal Law sections 265.20 and 195.08 by creating a new possession-and-sale exemption for electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns and by expressly adding those devices to an existing felony offense involving interference with law enforcement. It would also require state agencies to promulgate regulations governing device standards, labeling, and lawful sale procedures, thereby establishing a regulated market for these weapons while preserving criminal penalties for misuse and for possession by prohibited persons.
Sentiment
Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee discussion or votes, the overall posture appears to be permissive but tightly regulated: the bill is designed to expand lawful self-defense options while imposing age, criminal-history, and sales controls. The caption and structure suggest a policy goal of allowing civilian access under defined conditions rather than unrestricted availability.
Contention
The main points of contention likely concern public safety versus self-defense rights. Supporters would likely emphasize the ability of law-abiding adults to protect themselves and property, while opponents may worry about the risks of broader access to electronic dart guns and stun guns, including misuse, escalation of violence, and harm to police or the public. The bill’s inclusion of strict eligibility limits, regulatory oversight, and sales restrictions indicates an attempt to address those concerns, but the expansion of lawful possession and sale would still be the central issue.
Same As
Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Relates to allowing the possession and sale of electronic dart guns and electronic stun guns for self-defense; adds such weapons in the definition of obstructing governmental administration by means of a self-defense spray device.
Relates to the sale and possession of self-defense spray devices in the state; removes the requirement that only authorized dealers and pharmacists could sell such devices; provides that no more than two self-defense spray devices may be sold at any one time to a single purchaser; repeals certain provisions of law relating thereto.
Relates to the sale and possession of self-defense spray devices in the state; removes the requirement that only authorized dealers and pharmacists could sell such devices; permits shipping of such devices within the state; repeals certain provisions of law relating thereto.
Provides that a person over 18 yrs can purchase/possess a stun gun or electronic dart gun, prohibits sale of a stun gun or electronic dart gun to anyone under18 yrs, and criminalizes the use of a stun gun or electronic dart gun in any criminal offense.
Allows a person over 18 to purchase a stun gun or electronic dart gun and prohibits the sale of a stun gun or electronic dart gun to a person under 18 and criminalizes using a stun gun or electronic dart gun in a crime or against a police officer.
Allows a person over 18 to purchase a stun gun or electronic dart gun and prohibits the sale of a stun gun or electronic dart gun to a person under 18 and criminalizes using a stun gun or electronic dart gun in a crime or against a police officer.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.
In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.