Assemblyman David G. McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) joined his Assembly colleagues during a special legislative session on Wednesday to vote in favor of legislation banning illegal gun trafficking. The legislation was promoted by Gov. George Pataki.

“This legislation increases the penalties for criminals who use, sell or traffic illegal firearms,” said McDonough. “Our law enforcement officers and communities deserve protection from individuals who deal in the illegal firearm trade.”

The first measure eliminates several weaknesses in current state law regarding the sale of illegal guns by increasing the charge for criminal sale of a firearm from a Class D felony to a Class B felony; reducing the number of illegally possessed firearms necessary to charge an individual with stiffer felony charges; and closing several loopholes regarding the sale of illegal guns.

The second provision further protects law enforcement personnel by boosting the penalties, including up to life in prison without the possibility of parole, against individuals who injure or kill police, correction and peace officers.