Senator Persaud Commends Passage of Firearm Safety Legislation

On Jan. 29, the Senate passed six bills regarding firearm safety: S2451, which establishes extreme risk protection orders that prohibit citizens from possessing or buying guns if they are deemed dangerous by the court; S2374, which expands background checks; S2438, which allows the State to access out-of-state mental health records when reviewing applicants for firearm permits; S101A, which prevents teachers from carrying guns in schools; S2448, which bans bump stocks; and S2449, which standardizes firearm buyback programs.

“Gun-related violence across the nation is getting worse, even in some New York neighborhoods — where overall crime is at an all-time low," Senator Persaud said."With these common sense firearm safety bills, we are addressing the necessary protection of all New Yorkers without overstepping the rights of gun owners."

Along with the gun reform legislation passed today, Senator Persaud also sponsors Bill S2522-2019, which would create a gun violence research institute in New York. “Discussions on gun control are ongoing across the country, but I would like to see more research done," Senator Persaud told national gun-related news outlet The Trace. “Better policies may be created, and reached sooner, if we are well informed.”

Additionally, the Legislature passed the Child Victims Act (S2440) yesterday. In response to its passage, Senator Persaud said, “The CVA is long overdue; finally, victims will get their rightful opportunity at justice. I cannot commend my colleagues enough for pushing this legislation and their advocacy for New York’s brave survivors."