Authorizes retired police officers to apply for a firearms license that is valid throughout the state

1 Co-sponsor

• George Latimer

BILL NUMBER:S2290 REVISED 2/22/13

Title of bill

An act to amend the penal law, in relation to licenses to carry and possess firearms for retired police officers

Purpose

This legislation will allow police officers who retired in good standing from their agency or department and provide proof thereof, that it be a presumptive qualification for issuance of a carry and possess firearms license.

Summary of provisions

Section One-amends Section 400.00 subdivision 4-a of the penal law, to grant retired police officers an accelerated process by which they may qualify to receive their firearms license issued under section 400.00. Applications providing proof of retirement in good standing from the retired police officer's agency or department shall be presumptive qualification for the authority to carry and possess firearms within every county and city of the State of New York.

Section One- Also defines a "retired police officer" as a former police officer, as defined in subdivision thirty-four of section 1.20 of the criminal procedure law who was immediately entitled to receive retirement benefits under provisions of the retirement and social security law or the administrative code of the city of New York.

Section Two- stipulates this act shall take effect immediately.

Justification

Under current law, retired New York State Troopers have the authorization to carry and possess firearms. This legislation would allow retired police officers to have the same privileges and also expand the privilege to cover other counties and cities.

Our police officers protect our families and serve their communities for decades. Their ability to responsibly own and carry weapons should not be taken away when they retire from the line of duty.

Legislative history

S. 5264-A 2011-12

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.