FOP ALERT: IMPACT OF NEW NY GUN LAWS

This alert is to advise members of the Fraternal Order of Police that recent changes to firearms laws in New York may impact active and retired officers visiting the State and carrying concealed firearms under the auspices of the Law Enforcement Officers’ Safety Act (LEOSA).

New York State law prohibits the possession of magazines holding more than seven (7) rounds. The exemption provided by the LEOSA from State and local prohibitions on the carriage of concealed firearms does NOT exempt active and retired officers from State or local laws regulating magazines. It is unlawful for out-of-State active or retired law enforcement officers to possess a magazine which is capable of holding more than seven (7) rounds in the State of New York and you could face a criminal charge. It is our understanding that the prohibition on magazines went into effect immediately.

While the National Legislative Office has not done a full legal analysis of the new laws, it is very clear that this provision in the new laws will have an immediate effect on FOP members traveling to or through the State of New York. In addition, retired law enforcement officers living in New York–even those who have retired or separated from their agency in good standing in the State of New York–may also be affected by the ban on magazines capable of holding more than seven (7) rounds.

We urge our members that choose to carry concealed firearms in New York under the auspices of the LEOSA to follow the law and use good judgement. Any questions about the new laws in the State of New York should be directed to the New York State Troopers or Office of the Attorney General of New York.