Advocates for gun laws meet with Albany lawmakers

Mothers and advocates across several states called for action on gun violence Tuesday.

The group Moms Demand Action mobilized advocates for stricter gun laws at several state capitols, including in Albany.

Advocates met with lawmakers and pushed support for bills on the table that would make it easier for survivors and victims’ families to receive compensation.

The group gathers every year at the Capitol for a day of action. They support easier access to money for victims, a new tax on ammunition and increased investment in violence intervention programs through an ammunition tax.

Advocates said New York has strong gun laws, but that work needs to be done.

“We want to continue to be a leader in the country and these laws in particular this year, victims compensation and ammunition tax and Medicaid reimbursement will support survivors and community violence intervention programs,” said Diane Rinaldo, a co-lead for the New York City area.

Opponents of the laws told NewsChannel 13 when they were introduced that the bills put an undue burden on law-abiding gun owners. They also said Democrats in Albany should instead focus on preventing violent crime and on mental health.