As lawmakers are on the verge of agreeing to a tentative gun control measure, the proposed package includes provisions that would limit public exposure of pistol permit information.

A gun control package that lawmakers are on the verge of agreeing to would allow gun permit license holders to petition to not include their names on a public list if they believe the exposure is a danger, according to a legislative source briefed on the draft bill.

A statewide database of pistol permits from counties would not be subject to the Freedom of Information Law.

The move comes after the White Plains-based Journal News published a map on its website of pistol permit holders in its coverage area, save for Putnam County, whose county clerk has not complied with the law.

The centerpiece of the measure would update the state’s assault weapons ban of 1994 and limit high-capacity magazines from 10 bullets to seven. Having eight or more bullets in a magazine would result in a $200 fine and a misdemeanor charge. The assault weapons ban would apply to semiautomatic weapons with a detachable magazine.

Private sales would be subject to a background check, with dealers serving as the middle-man and would be able to charge a small fee. Private sales over the internet would also end, according to the draft legislation.

If a gun owner has their firearm stolen, it must be reported within 24 hours and dealers must report any stolen inventory. Failing to safely store a firearm results in a misdemeanor.  

The package would also increase penalties for illegal guns on school grounds, the murder of a first responder (EMS, firefighter or any other law enforcement) to an A1 felony, the penalty for the use of an unloaded weapon goes to a felony from a misdemeanor and “straw” purchaser would increase from a misdemeanor to an E felony.

Kendra’s Law would be extended for two years and treatment would grow to oney year from six months if needed. The law adds the provision of requiring a therapist to report the threat of a patient who claims to use a gun illegally to a county mental health official, who would then be required to inform the state if the threat is believed serious. Those in a state prison would require an assessment before being released.

Share|