NY Ammo Sellers Face Delays Due to New Background Check System
Background Checks for Ammunition Purchases in New York State Cause Frustration and Business Loss
It’s been over a month since New York State implemented background checks for ammunition purchases, and the effects are being felt by both dealers and customers. The new law has resulted in delays in processing information, leading to lost business for dealers. Many customers are opting to go to neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Vermont, where they can make their purchases without the hassle of background checks and without having their personal information stored in a permanent state database.
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The implementation of NY Executive Law 228 on September 13, 2023, mandated background checks for all ammunition purchases in New York State. While Governor Kathy Hochul may consider the law a success, dealers like Josh Hawkins, the general manager of Just Holster It, are experiencing the negative consequences. Hawkins believes that the law has achieved what Hochul intended, but it has made ammunition purchases more complicated and time-consuming for customers.
One of the major issues is the delay in the state system, even when the federal system approves the gun purchase simultaneously. Hawkins shared an example of a woman who was cleared to buy a pistol by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), but her state background check for ammunition was still pending, causing a two-week delay. When seeking assistance from the New York State Police (NYSP), Hawkins found their response to be unhelpful.
Concerns about data security in the state system have also been raised by Mike Onysko, the manager of McLain’s Sporting Goods. He believes that customer information already in the state’s databases may be contributing to the delays. Additionally, the added requirements and the state’s demand for more information are driving customers to purchase ammunition from other sources.
Customers Crossing State Lines
“They’re just purchasing from elsewhere. People just don’t want to give up their information, and I don’t really blame them,” said Onysko.
Under the law, customer information is stored in a statewide firearms license database, which includes data from various state entities. The information is used for certification and recertification of firearm permits and is not considered public records. The law also allows the NYSP to develop additional databases as needed.
The background checks for ammunition sales were initially proposed in 2013 under the New York Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Act. However, the implementation was delayed due to negotiations between Republicans and then-Governor Andrew Cuomo. The current law has faced criticism from individuals like Tom King, president of the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association (NYSRPA), who claim that it targets law-abiding gun owners instead of focusing on criminals.
Mark Oliva, the managing director for public affairs of the NSSF: The Firearm Industry Trade Association, echoed this sentiment, stating that the ammunition background check is just another obstacle for law-abiding gun owners. Critics argue that the focus should be on enforcing laws against criminals rather than burdening responsible gun owners.
As frustrations and business losses continue to mount, it remains to be seen whether any changes will be made to address the concerns raised by dealers and customers.
What are the concerns raised by customers regarding the storage and use of personal information in the background check process for ammunition purchases?
Nhelpful, with little information on when the background check would be completed. This delay resulted in the customer going to a neighboring state to make her ammunition purchase, causing Just Holster It to lose a sale.
Furthermore, the requirement of background checks for ammunition purchases has led to a decrease in customer foot traffic for many dealers. Customers who previously frequented local gun shops for their ammunition now find it more convenient to travel to neighboring states where they can make their purchases without the hassle of background checks. This loss of business is not only impacting the revenue of dealers but also the local economy as a whole.
Another concern surrounding the implementation of background checks is the issue of personal information being stored in a permanent state database. Many customers are wary of providing their personal information, fearing that it could be accessed or misused. The requirement of background checks for ammunition purchases has created a sense of unease and invasion of privacy for customers, further compelling them to take their business elsewhere.
The frustration and business loss experienced by dealers in New York State are not unfounded. Similar concerns were voiced by gun store operators in a recent article published by The Epoch Times. These operators raised concerns about the security of storing personal information in a database, the potential for delays in processing background checks, and the impact on their businesses. These concerns highlight the need for a re-evaluation of the new law and its impact on both dealers and customers.
While the intent behind background checks for ammunition purchases is to enhance public safety, it is crucial to find a balance between ensuring safety and preserving the rights and convenience of law-abiding citizens. New York State should consider exploring alternative solutions that do not impose unnecessary burdens on dealers and customers alike. This could involve streamlining the background check process, improving the efficiency of the state system, and addressing concerns about the storage and use of personal information.
In conclusion, the implementation of background checks for ammunition purchases in New York State has caused frustration and business loss for dealers, while also inconveniencing customers. The delays in processing information and the requirement of personal information storage have led customers to seek alternatives in neighboring states. It is important for lawmakers to carefully assess the impact of such legislation and work towards finding solutions that prioritize both public safety and the needs of those involved in the firearms industry.
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