The state Assembly on Tuesday passed a far-reaching bill that would, if enacted, have troubling implications for law-abiding gun owners and manufacturers in New York state. The gun bill, A.1157, requires new pistols sold in New York to be equipped with so-called “microstamping” technology that leaves an identification number on fired casings. The measure, which passed by a vote of 84-55, was strongly opposed by Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C-Black River) who joined concerned sportsmen and second amendment supporters.

Each year, the legislation is rammed through by a progressive downstate faction of the Assembly Majority. However, the assemblyman commended the upstate Assembly Majority members who were willing to stand up for the constitution and against their leadership.

“Each year, radical members of the Assembly Majority seek to limit our Second Amendment right and punish those who follow the law and respect firearms. This year is no different,” said Blankenbush. “The technology is costly and will place a large financial burden on manufacturers, which would ultimately be passed onto consumers, that is, if manufacturers in the state don’t give up entirely on selling within New York’s borders. As expensive as this technology is, so-called ‘microstamping’ is unproven in real world situations and is easily foiled. It would be ineffective at fighting gun assaults and murders given that it would have no impact on illegally purchased weapons.”

Blankenbush noted that legal firearms represent only a fraction of identified guns used in crimes, and it is rare that the firearms are in possession of a lawful gun owner during the commission of a crime. So-called “microstamping” has only been passed in one state – California – and the courts have blocked its implementation for various constitutional and pragmatic reasons. This law would cost New York millions in tax dollars, potentially drive out hundreds of jobs, and likely solve zero crimes so that a few downstate lawmakers can make a political point.

“Here in Northern New York, hunting is a way of life. North Country residents are law- abiding citizens who jump through state hoops to lawfully own a gun, either for personal protection or for sporting,” added Blankenbush. “As a strong supporter of sportsmen, I am adamantly opposed to any legislation that seeks to limit our Second Amendment right, and I will continue to vote no on any anti-gun legislation that reaches the Assembly Floor.”

The Assembly Majority has introduced several other “gun control” bills, including A. 380, which would require a five-year renewal for all pistol licenses outside of New York City. The sponsor of this legislation claims that this measure is necessary to ensure that “handguns do not fall into the wrong hands.” Blankenbush considers this statement not only a broad generalization, but insulting to the thousands of lawful pistol owners and sportsmen in New York state. A.380 has not yet been voted on in the Assembly.