Injunction May Be Issued on New York Gun Law, Thousands Rally in State’s Capital
OutdoorHub Reporters 02.28.13
The lawsuit against New York’s most recent gun law is making national headlines, and prompting doubts in the state’s Supreme Court.
According to WKTC, a Supreme Court Justice ordered the state to justify the constitutionality of the NY SAFE Act yesterday, which was passed under the guidance of Governor Andrew Cuomo last month. The state has until Friday, April 29 to respond to the order or an injunction will be placed on the SAFE Act. It could prove to be a monumental victory for the gun owners’ associations behind the lawsuit.
The New York Rifle and Pistol Association spearheaded the claim–along with online forum AR15.com and others–soon after the act was passed. On Wednesday a second lawsuit was filed against the SAFE Act on behalf of a Chautaugua County business, reports WKBW. Both claims are represented by attorney James Tresmond.
Thousands of gun rights supporters gathered in downtown Albany on Thursday to call for the law’s repeal. According to the Associated Press, masses of protesters gathered around the capitol building and surrounding areas, with 5,000 sign-wielding activists in one park alone.
“We believe Gov. Cuomo jumped on the bandwagon to become president of the United States,” said retired police officer Tom Moriarty, who came with members of his hunting and fishing club. Signs with quotes from the constitution and “Don’t tread on me” were seen well throughout the crowd. The rally included a speech by National Rifle Association President David Keene.
Governor Cuomo fast-tracked the act after the Newtown shooting and calls it a part of “reasonable reforms.” He believes that the new restrictions will help to decrease violence and the devastating damage of mass shootings in the state.
“You can overpower the extremists with intelligence and common sense,” the governor remarked before the measure was passed. Currently, amendments are still being considered for the SAFE Act. Two notable exemptions from the new strictures have been reserved for the film industry and law enforcement.
Updates on the legislation will be reported on Outdoor Hub as information comes in.
