BILL NUMBER:S3555

TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the penal law, in relation to prohibited use of
weapons

PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

To prohibit firearms and personal weapons in governmental chambers and
public hearing rooms.

SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:

Adds subdivision 4 to section 265.35 of the Penal Law, prohibiting
firearms and personal weapons in governmental chambers, including
state and municipal office and public hearing forums held by all
legislative and government entities at any location, except police
officials.

JUSTIFICATION:

In the development of public policy, state law should be as proactive
in the prevention of any coercive behavior or possible threats
concerning individuals possessing legally or illegally firearms or
other personal weapons in governmental chambers or at public hearings.
              

policymakers' decision making, votes, policies or individuals
testimony should not be threatened or injured through the showing of
or known concealment of firearms or personal weapons on the person of
individuals within governmental chambers or at public hearings.

Elected officials are placed into office by people as examples for the
community and as examples to the community should not be allowed to
use fear tactics to get others to see their point of view.

PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

01/09/02 Referred to Codes (A.2665)
02/06/03 Referred to Codes (A.3540)
01/07/04 Referred to Codes
2005-06 A.2187 Referred to Codes
2007-08 A.1391 Held for Consideration in Codes
2009-10 A.2148 Referred to Codes

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None.

EFFECTIVE DATE:

This act shall take effect on the first of November next succeeding
the date it becomes law.