Relates to large capacity ammunition feeding devices

1 Co-sponsor

• Kathleen A. Marchione

Title of bill

An act to amend the penal law, in relation to large capacity ammunition feeding devices

Purpose

This legislation would allow private investigators, bail enforcement agents, watch, guard or patrol agency employees, special armed guards and armored car guards to possess a large capacity ammunition feeding device in pursuit of their official duties or when they are authorized by regulation or order.

Summary of provisions

Section one amends subdivision (a) of section 265.20 of the penal law by adding a new paragraph that permits possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device by private investigators, bail enforcement agents, watch, guard or patrol agency employees, special armed guards and armored car guards in pursuit of their official duties or when they are authorized by regulation or order.

Section two establishes the effective date.

Justification

Under New York State Law licensed private investigators, bail enforcement agents, watch, guard or patrol agency employees as well as registered special armed guards and armored car guards are restricted from possessing a device that can carry more than seven rounds of ammunition, which is inconsistent with the authority afforded to various other law enforcement or quasi-law enforcement personnel.

In recognition of the safety and security hazards present within these professions, the authority vested, pursuant to this legislation, would provide added protections, thereby enhancing the safety and security of both the identified professionals and the public at large.

Legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

Shall take effect on the first of November succeeding the date on which it shall have become a law