Concerns raised in Fulton County over new NY gun laws

New York’s new gun laws passed right before the Fourth of July have caused some confusion for those permitted to carry concealed weapons.

A meeting hosted by Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino and Assemblyman Robert Smullen was held at the Meco Fire Station to explain the new laws.

“It’s very confusing. I hope this was educational.”

Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino

The governor has banned guns in areas she dubs “sensitive places.” That includes crowded public areas like bars, theaters, stadiums, and parks.

The sheriff and assemblyman answered as many questions as they could, but say the details are unclear because the laws were written so quickly.

“It’s very confusing. I hope this was educational. I tell people if they can, try to re-certify with the state police online before Sept. 1, because the law says you have to take a course before the next time you’re re-certified after Sept. 1,” said Giardino.

“I think the law is egregious, and it’s unconstitutional.”

Assemblyman Robert Smullen

Smullen calls the laws vague, and says if people don’t understand them, they could be punished.

“They can be inadvertently made into a criminal, by this new gun law that goes into effect on Sept. 1,” he said. “I think the law is egregious, and it’s unconstitutional. But these are people that obey the law, that follow the rules, and they care deeply about their communities. So they don’t want to get caught on the wrong side of state police.”

Several lawsuits have been filed against the new gun laws. However, until then, the Sheriff warns people to stay informed and be cautious.