Editor’s note: For a letter from Assemblyman Simpson to Gov. Hochul please click here.

Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C,I-Horicon) issued a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request last month to the Executive Chamber, Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of State, Division of Criminal Justice Services and New York State Police, seeking guidance on the newly-adopted gun laws that were passed on July 1. The bill lacks definition about whether the Adirondack and Catskill Parks are exempt from the “sensitive areas” listed in the bill.

Since the bill passed, local and state law enforcement, district attorneys and residents within the parks are concerned about the laws as they could potentially punish lawful, concealed-carry permit holders for possession of a firearm, rifle or shotgun. Since Simpson’s FOIL request was submitted, there has not been a legitimate clarification of the law. Today, Simpson is sending another letter to Gov. Hochul to inform her of legislation he introduced with Sen. Dan Stec (S.9498), which would exclude the Adirondack and Catskill Parks from the original law.

“The law-abiding constituents of the North Country have been asking my office everyday what the law means for them. These people are not the problem nor are they contributing to crime and gun violence in the state. Hunting season is upon us; a major sport for many residents who consistently practice safely. I call on Gov. Hochul today to respond to our request and fix Chapter 371 of the Laws of 2022,” said Simpson.