Guns Can Be Carried In New York State Bars, Libraries, Zoos: Judge
A judge in Syracuse issued a harsh blow to New York State's Concealed Carry Improvement Act. Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature passed quite a few new laws governing pistol permits in the state after the United States Supreme Court, however, a judge in Syracuse has ruled against them.
On Thursday, October 6, 2022, On Thursday, Judge Glenn Suddaby, a federal judge in Syracuse struck down crucial parts of the Concealed Carry Improvement Act.
According to USA Today, the judge reversed New York's prohibition of guns being carried in certain public places. If Judge Suddaby's ruling can withstand appeals, guns will be allowed in:
- Times Square
- The subway and other public transportation systems
- Bars, restaurants, and theaters
- Libraries
- Public parks and zoos
- Shelters for the homeless, youth, and domestic violence victims
Additionally, the judge ruled against the requirement to provide names of family members and social media accounts.
Political leaders in New York fear that allowing guns to be legally carried in these places will put New Yorkers in danger and lead to more senseless gun violence. Governor Hochul issued a statement reacting to the decision, saying,
While this decision leaves aspects of the law in place, it is deeply disappointing that the Judge wants to limit my ability to keep New Yorkers safe and to prevent more senseless gun violence. We are working with the Attorney General's office to review the decision carefully and discuss next steps in an appeal. I will continue to do everything in my power to combat the gun violence epidemic and protect New Yorkers.
The judge did leave the "good moral character" requirement mostly intact, as well as the, 18 hours of firearm training.
The Concealed Carry Improvement Act will remain intact until next week, allowing the state time to appeal the decision.
Just a personal observation, it seems like the more violent gun deaths and mass shootings there are, the fewer gun control laws there are. Pretty soon the U.S. will be the wild wild west.