New York State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda, Conceal Gun Carrying Permits and US Supreme Court Possible Decision

At any moment, the U.S. The Supreme Court could make an ominous decision for the State of New York.

Two petitioners, from upstate New York, are challenging the law in place since 1911, establishing the requirements to obtain a conceal weapon permit for handguns. A decision favorable to the petitioners will invariably lead to more firearms in our communities.  Previously, a document was leaked to the media indicating that there was a likelihood that the Supreme Court will rule this way. I am extremely concerned about this potential development. 

The decision may contravene the intent of the New York State legislature and Governor Hochul when, last Monday, a package of 10 bills designed to protect society form gun violence was enacted into law.  There is no greater risk to our efforts than the possibility of this decision.

For months, I have raised concerns about the dangers in easing the licensing regulations to carry concealed weapons. New York State has set the example for acting swiftly and decisively against gun violence.   

Among other important measures, we have included "Ghost Guns" in the definition of firearms, and raised the age to purchase automatic and high capacity rifles. We simply cannot afford to go backwards.

The people of New York must remain on alert to this situation. Elected leaders at all levels of government must come together to proactively establish regulations that protect our citizens and fight against gun violence. Let us not forget that our fight against gun violence is not over. 

###