Bill > S00239

This bill addresses the transfer, acceptance, and purchase of military weapons by various law enforcement entities in New York State. The legislation prohibits the state police, county sheriffs, town police departments, and other local police forces from acquiring military weapons from the United States government through the 1033 federal excess property program (a program that allows the Department of Defense to transfer surplus military equipment to law enforcement agencies). However, the bill provides a specific exception for the City of New York and the New York State Police, who are authorized to accept, purchase, or receive military weapons, gear, or machinery from the federal government, but only for counterterrorism purposes and in consultation with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The bill amends several existing laws, including the executive law, county law, town law, and a specific law related to police in certain municipalities, to implement these restrictions. Each section of the bill adds language explicitly prohibiting the transfer, acceptance, or purchase of military weapons, with the lone exception for counterterrorism activities. The legislation aims to limit the militarization of local law enforcement by restricting access to military-grade equipment, while maintaining a narrow pathway for specialized counterterrorism needs.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S239