SAF Fights New York Law Requiring Licenses for Semi-Auto Rifles

May 31, 2023The Second Amendment recognizes the right of Americans to “keep and Bear Arms”. This right is not limited to bolt-action or single-shot firearms. In defiance of the Second Amendment New York has imposed a licensing requirement that is discretionary for those who wish to purchase semi-auto rifles. This effectively allows New York to arbitrarily deny law abiding citizens their Second Amendment right. The law in question is now being challenged by the Federal District Court for Eastern District of New York in the case of McGregor et al v. Suffolk County. This lawsuit challenges: “(i), enforcement of Senate Bill 9458, which requires ordinary citizens to apply for and receive a discretionary licence to purchase, obtain, sell or exchange semiautomatic firearms, as well as register their weapons with government under penalty of criminal sanction; and (ii), enforcement of policies resulting in exorbitant delays of 2-3 years in issuing a permit to purchase, acquire, sell, trade, exchange and dispose of semiautomatic firearms.” The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), has filed an Amicus Brief in McGregor v. Suffolk County. The SAF argues New York State’s “rifle licence” requirement under New York SB9458 is unconstitutional. SAF founder and executive vice president. Alan M. Gottlieb points out that the Second Amendment does not support a requirement that the government grant permission to an individual in order for them to exercise their right to bear arms. Adam Kraut, the Executive Director of SAF and attorney Adam Kraut said: “The state’s requirement for an individual to obtain a license before acquiring a long-gun is simply incompatible the text of Second Amendment as informed this nation’s tradition and history.” “New York has consistently imposed additional burdens on peaceful individuals regarding the purchase, transfer and possession of firearms, which do not comply with constitutional limits on the state’s powers. It is time that New York acknowledges that, despite their preference, they do not have the constitutional authority necessary to enact laws of this nature, which only serve as an obstacle to individuals’ constitutional rights.Similar Posts:Tags: Mcgregor v. Suffolk, New York, Second Amendment, semi-auto rifle ban