Photo: Freepik
There is a lot of controversy surrounding the topic of guns and who can have them in the U.S. Guns are used for different purposes by those who purchase them. Some guns are for hunting escapades in the woods, and many times they are purchased for protection. We all need some security when we are at risk and cannot access immediate help. Here is all the information you need to know about gun laws in the city of New York.
Who can own a gun?
New York has strict laws surrounding gun ownership compared to all other states. In the state, only American citizens can buy a gun, and those 21 years and above. If you have an alien registration card, you can also buy but only for those who have been in the country for seven years and more.
If you have lived for less than seven years, you have to provide a certificate of good conduct from your country of origin to purchase one. You also need to provide two letters of reference to prove good character.
It’s a burning topic that interests academicians. Schools encourage students to write an essay on their thoughts on gun control. An idea students can take is the pros and cons of gun control. You can find gun control essay examples on EduBirdie and gun control essay topics. Professional writers on the site can help you write a good gun control essay conclusion or even a complete paper based on your requirement. It’s a highly trusted site that has been around for over a decade.
Steps to follow before purchasing
You need to have a handgun license or rifle permit before buying a handgun in New York. These two are considered separate, and you will need to register separately for both. You can go get one at the licensing division, where you will be given a 17-page document to fill if it’s a handgun and a 13-page one if it is a rifle. Many other states do not require one to have a license, which is why New York is considered strict on gun laws.
Requirements during the license application
The main items required when applying for a license are two passport size photographs, your original social security card, a New York state driver’s license, and proof you reside in New York. You may also be required to bring a recent utility bill and an income tax return for the state of New York. You also need to provide information on whether someone has a restraining order against you.
If you have one for someone else, you need to provide the details. You need to provide details on whether you were arrested as well, even if the charges were dropped. A fee of 340 USD is charged when applying for a handgun, 140 USD for a rifle, and an additional 90USD for fingerprints in both.
Photo: Freepik
Safety measures
You still have to interview before you buy a gun in New York. Authorities need to know that you can handle a gun and that you understand all the laws and rules for the safe usage and storage of a gun. They also want to know why you want to buy a gun, if you have been assaulted before and owned a gun before.
A background check is also done on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This is done to see if you have a criminal record or a mental problem that may make you a threat when you own a gun. That does not mean that you will be disqualified if you have such a history. It will all vary as per the regulations put in place. It will take about 3-6 months to apply for and process a license.
The extent of New York State’s strict laws and regulations
You are not allowed to carry a gun openly in any part of the state. You also have to constantly update the license division of any event that has led to interaction with law enforcement. The state does not accept permits from other states, and those from New York are invalid outside its jurisdiction.
Conclusion
All these are measures taken to ensure there is gun control and that not just anyone can own a gun. There are several cases of murder in households by people who are not stable enough to own a weapon. There are also several accidents surrounding the use of guns. The state is attempting to minimize such cases by putting strict gun laws. These are all necessary steps taken by the state of New York, and other states can borrow a leaf.
Author’s Bio
Alisia Stren spins words with great finesse to leave her audience asking for more. She’s a professional writer who loves doing everything from academic essays to blogs. Her love for writing is deep, and she plans to go up the ranks with her hard work. She’s currently writing a book on entrepreneurship in college.
