New York, Date – New York’s recently enacted law mandating background checks for ammunition purchases officially came into force on Wednesday, successfully withstanding a last-minute legal dispute.
Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor issued an order on Tuesday night, rejecting a challenge against provisions within the Concealed Carry Improvement Act. This act was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in July 2022, following the Supreme Court’s overturning of the state’s century-old concealed carry law.
Governor Hochul expressed confidence in the law’s soundness, saying, “As a result of Justice Sotomayor’s actions last night, we can be assured and feel secure that our law is sound and that it is going to be implemented.”
Under the new law, gun retailers will conduct background checks for ammunition purchases through the New York State Police instead of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Additionally, the state will now require background checks not only for firearm acquisitions but also for ammunition purchases. Fees of $9 and $2.50 will be imposed, respectively, for each check.
Furthermore, the legislation mandates periodic on-site inspections of firearms dealers to ensure compliance with the law. These measures represent a significant step in enhancing firearm and ammunition oversight in New York.