Gov. Andrew Cuomo unveiled this evening what he called a proposal to expand the state’s gun control laws, but shied away from using the word “deal” or “agreement” in a news conference this evening with reporters at the Capitol.

It is largely what’s been reported through evening, including universal background checks, an expansion of the state’s assault weapons ban and require assault rifles before the 1994 ban to be registered, along with reducing the number bullets in a magazine from 10 to seven.  

The measure would require the recertification of handgun and assault rifle permits every five years and increase the penalties ranging from the murder of a first responder to illegal guns on school grounds.  

A statewide registry would be created and exempt from the state’s Freedom of Information Law.

A bill has been printed and introduced to both houses. Cuomo says he’s done negotiating, a sign that a deal or tacit agreement to allow a vote is in place, even if the governor doesn’t say it outright.

Cuomo said he would issue a message of necessity to waive the required three-day aging process for bills. Cuomo said waiting any longer could create a “run” on gun stores, though he gave no indication whether he thought the Legislature would vote on the measure this evening.

“We have now put people on notice that I’m seeking a ban on assault weapons and a ban on magazines over seven now, so to the extent that might actually accelerate people going out to acquire the guns before the ban — that is something we want to avoid,” Cuomo said. “That would actually be the exact opposite of what we’re trying to accomplish here.”

If the measure passes tonight or at least in the near future, New York would be the first state in the country to pass gun control in the wake of the Newtown shooting that killed 20 children.

Cuomo, who called the measure one of the “greatest problems” facing the state, said he would be “proud” if New York was first.

“I think I would be very proud as a New Yorker if that was the case. I would be proud as a New Yorker associated with the government of the state of New York because that is what you are supposed to be able to do when you are in government. That is what the governor is supposed to be doing, that is what the lieutenant governor is supposed to be doing, the secretary is supposed to be doing, and the assembly people and the senators — help make this state a better state. Help the people solve their problems. This is a scourge on society. People have had to live through tragedy after tragedy after tragedy.”

 

Watch Cuomo’s Comments >>

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