Amedore Bill Would Ban Handgun-Shaped Cell Phone Cases

Senator George Amedore today introduced legislation that would prohibit the sale of cell phone cases  that are designed to imitate handguns.

The bill (S.6014) would add cases or covers for wireless communication devices to the definition of imitation weapons that are currently banned. Under current law, the sale of imitation weapons that could be realistically perceived to be an actual firearm is prohibited unless they are: constructed in colors other than black, blue, silver or aluminum, or are marked with a non-removable orange stripe.

"This is a public safety issue, plain and simple," said Senator Amedore. "Our law enforcement officials already have a difficult enough job to do. These cases put our officers and our citizens at risk, and to continue to allow them to be sold is irresponsible."

The sale of the cases has led to increased concerns amongst law enforcement officials. When the phone is placed in an individual's pocket, it looks like the holster of a firearm, making it nearly impossible for law enforcement to determine if someone is armed or not.

“Some of these phone cases look like actual weapons. So, when it’s placed in your back pocket, it looks like you are literally carrying a handgun. Obviously, this could be easily misunderstood, especially when someone walks into a school, bank, mall, church or any other public area. This could trigger a really dangerous response which could have deadly consequences. Law enforcement officers have a tough enough job, and this will only complicate things. It serves no legitimate purpose and it’ll only be a matter of time before someone gets hurt,” said Albany County Sheriff Craig D. Apple, Sr.

"These cell phone cases are an accident waiting to happen," said Senator Amedore. "To continue to allow them to be sold as novelty items does a disservice to every responsible firearm owner throughout our State."

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