A 10701 New York Assembly · 2025 Regular Session

Relates to certain types of imitation guns

This bill updates New York's laws regarding imitation weapons and air guns to clarify definitions and strengthen regulations for gun industry members. It defines imitation weapons to include devices like air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns that resemble real firearms, while also setting age restrictions requiring that paint pellet guns and other air guns not be sold to anyone under 18. The legislation requires gun manufacturers and sellers to implement security measures to prevent theft, illegal sales, and the conversion of firearms, and establishes penalties of up to $1,000 for violations. These changes apply to businesses involved in selling, manufacturing, or distributing firearms and imitation weapons within the state.

Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared

Introduction

Mar 2026

Committee Review

Floor Vote

Governor

Introduced Mar 20, 2026 Last action May 14, 2026

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What changed between versions

A10701 → A10701A · 4 edits

MODERATE

The bill was amended to clarify that the definition of an imitation weapon also covers air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns, and to add a specific requirement that these items must have a closed barrel for at least half an inch to be considered imitation weapons. Additionally, a new section was added to protect the lawful possession of these items acquired before the law takes effect.

Scope change

The scope of the definition for 'imitation weapon' was expanded to explicitly include air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns, while adding a specific barrel-length exemption for them.

DEFINITION

The definition of 'imitation weapon' was updated to explicitly include air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns, ensuring they are covered under the law unless they meet specific safety criteria.

REQUIREMENT

A new requirement was added stating that air rifles, pellet guns, and BB guns must have a barrel closed for at least half an inch from the front to be classified as imitation weapons.

TIMELINE

A new provision was added to exempt the possession or use of air rifles, pellet guns, or BB guns that were lawfully acquired before the act's effective date.

The effective date of the act was changed from thirty days to sixty days, with specific sections taking effect immediately or on the sixtieth day.

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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

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Key actions

Committee

Amendments

May 14, 2026

Lower · Passed

PRINT NUMBER 10701A

lower

May 14, 2026

Lower · Passed

AMEND AND RECOMMIT TO CONSUMER AFFAIRS AND PROTECTION

lower

Mar 20, 2026

Committee

REFERRED TO CONSUMER AFFAIRS AND PROTECTION

lower

1 primary · 0 co-sponsors