The debate over the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act continues on Capitol Hill. It would force states to recognize concealed carry permits obtained in another state, and advocates for victims of are domestic violence are opposed to it.
Randi Bregman of Vera House in Syracuse says ultimately this kind of legislation would weaken New York’s gun control laws. For victims of domestic violence that could be deadly.
“A lot of domestic violence homicides, including those in our community, happen because of a gun,” Bregman said. “So increased access to guns puts domestic violence victims at a greater risk.”
Bregman says it’s not uncommon for victims of domestic violence to flee across state lines to somewhere they think is more safe.
“They may have friends or family they may come to, and they may end up in New York State. And I think making the protections we have in New York to make concealed carry looser, could potentially put someone in harms way,” Bregman said.
The expanded concealed carry legislation would limit what authorities in New York could do to someone traveling here from another state who has a concealed carry permit.
“They may be here without anyone knowing there should be a limitation of access to guns. And the person can travel across state lines under this bill, with a gun, and police wouldn’t be able to respond,” she said.
Central New York Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus), who voted for the legislation, said in a statement that it will streamline the process for law abiding permit owners, adding that New York’s gun legislation would remain applicable to all gun owners entering the state.
The legislation, which has been linked with a bill to enhance background checks for gun buyers, awaits a vote in the Senate, where it will need 60 votes to pass.
