Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) is proud to announce legislation aimed at reducing the burden of new ammunition purchase restrictions on law-abiding gun owners in New York state. The intent of Assemblyman Gray’s bill, A.8161, is to minimize the delay and confusion surrounding the new restrictions—enacted since September—that are hampering both sportsmen and gun store owners across New York.

“While I do not support the new Concealed Carry Improvement Act provisions, I aim to make some improvements,” Gray said. “Protecting the rights of gun owners while executing proper safety protocols is a delicate balance. There is a way to do it, and I believe this legislation will ease the strain of this new process on gun owners.”

Bill A.8161 proposes that a background check for the initial purchase of ammunition would still be required, however, upon approval, a certification will be issued that can be used for a twelve-month period. With this certification, consumers will not be required to go through another arduous background check for a year when purchasing ammunition.

 “If not alleviated, the current standards, as we have heard, will continue to result in many traveling out of state to Pennsylvania, Vermont and elsewhere to make their purchases. The downstream effects of this must be considered, including loss of business and the continuation of the New York hostile business climate, as reported by this Buffalo news station. Hunting in New York is a treasured pastime and a big business.”

“I call on my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, as well as the governor, to pass and sign this common-sense compromise,” Gray concluded.