Gov. Hochul signs law restricting the carrying of handguns in sensitive locations

As of Sept. 1, 2022, firearms will not be allowed in sensitive locations in the state of New York including airports, public transportation, Times Square, courthouses, bars and restaurants that serve alcohol, as well as several other places.

The move is part of a package of laws signed by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to strengthen the state’s gun laws and restrict concealed carry weapons. The package of laws moved through the state legislative process quickly in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in NYSRPA v. Bruen, which invalidated the state’s century-old law requiring proper cause be provided to apply and obtain a concealed-carry license.

Gov. Hochul called the court’s ruling “a reckless decision” that sends the state “backward” and threatens the safety of state residents.

“After a close review of the NYSRPA vs. Bruen decision and extensive discussions with constitutional and policy experts, advocates and legislative partners, I am proud to sign this landmark legislative package that will strengthen our gun laws and bolster restrictions on concealed carry weapons,” said Gov. Hochul.

The laws signed and ready to take effect in September will:

• Expand on eligibility requirements in the concealed carry permitting process, including completed firearm training courses for applicants.
• Allow the state to regulate and standardize training for license applicants.
• Restrict the carrying of concealed weapons in sensitive locations and establish that private property owners must expressly allow a person to possess a firearm, rifle or shotgun on their property. Individuals who carry concealed weapons in sensitive locations or in contravention of the authority of an owner of private property will face criminal penalties.
• Establish state oversight over background checks for firearms and regular checks on license holders for criminal convictions.
• Create a statewide license and ammunition database.
• Strengthen and clarify the law relating to the sale of body armor to include hard body armor, such as the type worn by the suspect in the Buffalo shooting and the safe storage of firearms.

In response to the new laws being signed, New York City Transit President Richard Davey and Metro-North President and LIRR Interim President Catherine Rinaldi issued a joint statement that said, “Guns have no place in public transportation, period. We applaud Gov. Hochul and the State Legislature for swift action to promote the safety of riders and employees. This legislation will deter crime before it happens.”