Gun Owners, No Immediate Changes to New York State Gun Policies and Permitting Process

Governor Kathy Hochul issued a reminder to gun owners that the U.S. Supreme Court’s Thursday decision to strike down New York’s concealed carry law does not mean New York State’s licensure processes and rules do not need to be followed. It does not automatically give current residential permit owners the ability to carry guns outside the home. Gun owners are required by law to follow current restrictions. 

As the administration closely reviews the ruling, Governor Hochul is planning for a special session of the legislature to enact new laws that conform with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision, while also ensuring that access to firearms is carefully regulated. The Governor is also working closely working with local government — convening the mayors of New York’s six largest cities on Thursday afternoon — to discuss the impact of the decision and the policy options under consideration. 

“While the Supreme Court’s appalling decision to strike down New York State’s concealed carry law has potentially vast and far-reaching implications, it does not activate any immediate changes to State gun license and permit laws, nor does it allow residential permit owners to carry their weapons outside their homes,” Governor Hochul said. “As the case returns to lower court, we encourage responsible gun owners to continue to follow their current restrictions, and always put safety first. While we are disappointed with the Supreme Court’s reckless disregard for the safety of our communities, we are prepared to fight. I am planning for a special session of the legislature where we will explore a wide range of legislative options that will keep us in compliance with this ruling, while also creating a thorough and strict permitting process that prioritizes the safety of our communities. I look forward to working with the legislature, local and county government leaders, and legal experts, and will stop at nothing to protect New Yorkers.” 

NYSRPA vs. Bruen Overview 

In order to clarify the immediate and long-term impact of the decision, Governor Hochul is also providing a broad overview of the NYSRPA vs. Bruen case, its current status, how it does and does not impact gun owners today, the possible long-term implications, and the actions the State is exploring to keep communities safe. 

In their 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court ended a 100-year legal precedent requiring individuals to demonstrate “proper cause” to obtain a license to carry a concealed firearm. It deemed New York State’s existing law unconstitutional because it gives too much discretion to the State and its licensing officers in determining “proper cause.” The case now returns to New York’s 2nd Circuit Court — which must issue a ruling that aligns with the Supreme Court opinion. 

While the Supreme Court decision has long-term implications, the decision has no immediate impact on firearm licensing or permitting. This means people cannot immediately legally carry a concealed firearm without obtaining the currently required permits or licenses. As of now, the application process to obtain a license or permit is unchanged. Those wishing to change their permit status to acquire an “unrestricted carry” permit must file an application with their designated local licensing authority. Gun owners must continue to follow current restrictions.   

The State is exploring a wide range of options, including creating concealed carry restrictions on sensitive locations, changes to the concealed carry permitting process, implementing specific training for permit applicants, and creating a system where private businesses would have to apply for exemptions to allow concealed carry weapons. The Supreme Court acknowledges that this ruling does not prohibit states from imposing licensing requirements for carrying a handgun in self-defense—as long as the requirements fit within the confines of the decision. The administration will work with the legislature and local and county governments to develop a strict and thorough licensing criteria that fits within that framework. 

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