Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Horicon) commends Gov. Hochul for addressing during her budget proposal yesterday the gun control laws passed in a special session last summer banning lawful concealed-carry permit holders from entering the Adirondack and Catskill Parks. The laws created confusion and contradictory interpretations which were expressed by residents and legislators from both sides of the aisle who voted against the bill.

Both Simpson and Sen. Dan Stec (R,C-Queensbury) proposed legislation that would exempt the Adirondack and Catskill Parks from the changes in the law in an effort to protect lawful gun owners in these regions. In the Public Protection and General Government Article VII Bill of the 2023-24 proposed budget, state lands in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks, athletic competitions and historic reenactments would all be exempt from the controversial gun control measures.

“I am pleased to see that the governor has proposed common-sense legislation on this issue,” said Simpson. “This was a major problem that affected thousands of law-abiding, rightful gun owners, including myself, for far too long. Last year's rushed, late night session left Adirondack Park residents with vague answers that potentially could have resulted in prosecution, despite having a permit and registered gun.

“We still have a long road ahead of us this session, but I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure we protect our Second Amendment rights. Without a doubt, we must protect the streets, but let's protect them from illegal guns, not those in the hands of law-abiding citizens,” Simpson concluded.