New York Assembly Bill A01191

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/9/25
• Report Pass: 1/28/25
• Refer: 1/28/25
• Report Pass: 4/29/25
• Refer: 4/29/25
• Report Pass: 4/30/25
• Engrossed: 5/14/25
• Refer: 5/14/25

Caption

Enacts the "safer weapons, safer homes act"; requires the division of criminal justice services to study the technological viability of personalized firearms; defines personalized firearms; requires the division to report to the governor and the legislature on the results of the study.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation could significantly influence state laws concerning firearm regulations. Personalized firearms would likely shift the landscape of firearm ownership and use by adding layers of technology aimed at enhancing safety. This could lead to broader discussions about firearm accessibility and responsibility, particularly in terms of preventing accidental discharges or unauthorized use. The requirement for a performance standards study suggests a commitment to ensure that any technology developed builds confidence among law enforcement and the public alike in the functionality and reliability of personalized firearms.

Voting

The bill has already gone through various legislative procedures, including a recent floor vote where it garnered 97 votes in favor and 50 against. Support and opposition may reflect broader societal divides over gun control measures, with some legislators championing technological solutions to improve safety, while others resist changes that they perceive as infringing on individual rights.

Summary

Bill A01191, known as the "Safer Weapons, Safer Homes Act," aims to address firearm safety through technological advancements by introducing the concept of personalized firearms. These are defined as firearms that incorporate a programmable feature designed to prevent them from being fired by anyone other than the legal owner or an authorized user. The bill mandates the Division of Criminal Justice Services to conduct a study to evaluate the technological viability of such firearms, looking into performance standards and identifying qualifying makes and models within a two-year timeframe.

Contention

The primary points of contention surrounding A01191 may arise from diverse perspectives on gun ownership rights versus community safety. Proponents of personalized firearms tout the benefits of improved safety measures in preventing accidents and misuse. However, critics may argue that mandating technological solutions could complicate access and infringe on Second Amendment rights. Additionally, concerns about the affordability and availability of these firearms could surface, particularly if the technology proves to be costly or inaccessible to average consumers.