A new bill introduced in the New York State Assembly would require background checks for the purchase of 3D printers capable of creating firearms. The bill, A8132, is sponsored by Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar and is currently in committee.
The bill defines a “three-dimensional printer” as “a computer or computer-driven machine or device capable of producing a three-dimensional object from a digital model.” Under the bill, any retailer of a 3D printer in New York State would be required to request and receive criminal history information concerning the purchaser from the Division of Criminal Justice Services.
The Division of Criminal Justice Services would then review the criminal history information and determine whether the purchaser has been convicted anywhere of a felony or a serious offense, or is the subject of an outstanding warrant of arrest. If the purchaser is disqualified from being licensed to carry or possess a firearm, the Division of Criminal Justice Services would notify the seller, who would be prohibited from selling the 3D printer.
The bill is designed to prevent criminals and other prohibited persons from obtaining 3D printers that could be used to create firearms. 3D printers have become increasingly affordable and accessible in recent years, and there is a growing concern that they could be used to manufacture untraceable firearms, also known as ghost guns.
Ghost guns are firearms that are assembled at home from individual parts, often using 3D-printed components. Ghost guns do not have serial numbers, making them difficult to trace to the manufacturer or the owner. This makes them attractive to criminals and other prohibited persons who may not be able to purchase a firearm legally.
Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent criminals from obtaining 3D printers that could be used to create ghost guns. They also argue that the bill will help to protect public safety by making it more difficult for criminals to obtain firearms.
Opponents of the bill argue that it is an infringement on the Second Amendment right to bear arms. They also argue that the bill is unnecessary, as there is no evidence that 3D-printed firearms are being used in a significant number of crimes.
The sources for this piece include an article in NewYorkSenate.
