Key Takeaways
- New York's law targeting 3D printed guns is set to take effect later this summer, focusing on regulating 3D printers and technology used to make firearms.
- The law requires 3D printers sold in New York to include technology preventing the production of illegal firearms and firearm parts.
- California's AB 2047 is still pending, but also aims to regulate 3D printers, requiring them to include firearm-blocking technology.
- Both laws aim to address the issue of "ghost guns" and untraceable firearms.
Introduction to 3D Printed Firearms Regulations
The production of 3D printed firearms has raised concerns among lawmakers, prompting states like New York and California to introduce regulations. New York's law, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul on May 27, is designed to prevent the production of illegal firearms and firearm components using desktop 3D printers.
New York's Law
The New York law focuses on regulating the technology used to make firearms, requiring 3D printers sold in the state to include technology that prevents the production of illegal firearms and firearm parts. The law also establishes a task force to recommend standards for manufacturers to meet, and allows the state to take action against companies selling non-compliant printers. Additionally, police agencies will be required to report recoveries of 3D printed firearms to the state.
Comparison of New York and California Laws
| State | Law | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| New York | Signed into law | 3D printers must include technology to prevent production of illegal firearms and firearm parts |
| California | Pending (AB 2047) | 3D printers must include firearm-blocking technology, state approval process for compliant machines |
California's AB 2047
California's AB 2047 is still making its way through the state legislature, but it also aims to regulate 3D printers. The law would require 3D printers sold in California to include firearm-blocking technology and create a state approval process for compliant machines. Non-compliant printers could no longer be sold or transferred in California starting in 2029.
Conclusion
The laws in New York and California are designed to address the issue of "ghost guns" and untraceable firearms. By regulating 3D printers and the technology used to make firearms, these laws aim to prevent the production of illegal firearms and firearm components.
Bottom Line
The regulation of 3D printed firearms is a complex issue, with states like New York and California taking steps to address the production of untraceable firearms. With New York's law set to take effect later this summer and California's AB 2047 still pending, it is clear that lawmakers are taking a proactive approach to regulating the technology used to make firearms. As the use of 3D printing technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more states introducing similar regulations to prevent the production of illegal firearms and firearm components.