Gun Policy
REDUCE PERMIT HASSLES
Ensure that the state and local government does not put any undue burden on citizens who are trying to lawfully abide by permit regulations. To do this, we will eliminate the current six-month permit waiting period.
- The new permit waiting period for people who are not at risk will be 90 days and handled at county level.
- If the system fails to make a choice, one way or the other, the permit is granted automatically. If this happens, all fees shall be reimbursed to the individual.
- If the county does not approve a permit, then there must be a reason provided and the decision must be able to be appealed in a timely fashion.
FAST PERMITS AND GUNS FOR AT-RISK INDIVIDUALS
Anyone who has an increased need to defend themselves shall not be denied either a gun or permit. This includes people who face increased risk of violence, including people who have disabilities, are LGBTQ+ and/or victims of domestic violence. The issuance of gun permits and the wait period to own a gun for any such individuals should take no longer than 5 business days.
UNIVERSAL TRANSPORT LAWS
As long as a gun is unloaded and stored in closed containers, then it may be transported anywhere in New York state, regardless of county or municipal laws. This includes out-of-state visitors who do not have a permit. Unloaded shall be redefined to mean that the ammo is not inside the gun, regardless of jurisdiction.
DECRIMINALIZE SELF-DEFENSE
Self-defense with guns should be fully decriminalized. Currently, anyone who shoots someone in defense of people or property is considered a violent felon. This is a travesty. This must be fixed.
END DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES
Discriminatory law enforcement practices toward certain various demographics in relation to guns must end. Policies like stop and frisk, which are used to search people for guns, should be abolished. Law enforcement must not react violently to anyone just because they have a gun. All people should feel safe owning and carrying arms without fear of how law enforcement will react.
REPEAL THE RED FLAG LAW
There is a problem with guns being used by people like domestic abusers and school shooters. However, there is a better way to solve this problem than gun control. Firstly, guns and permits should be more available to people whose safety is at risk. Secondly, there needs to be available support networks for people to get away from abusers, otherwise domestic violence victims will still be in a position to be abused. Mental health support needs to be more available and affordable for people who need it. School shootings and domestic violence have to be dealt with by addressing the root issues instead of addressing symptoms, otherwise harm will still happen.