Bill > S00638

This bill modifies existing law to establish new requirements for gun buyback programs in New York State. Specifically, any private or governmental entity operating such a program must check the serial number of every firearm obtained against the New York Statewide Police Information Network (NYSPIN) records to identify stolen firearms. If a firearm is found to be stolen, the program cannot destroy it without first obtaining express permission from the lawful owner. Additionally, before returning a stolen firearm to its owner, the program must verify the owner's eligibility to possess a firearm under state law. If the owner is ineligible, the program may destroy the firearm. The bill defines a gun buyback program as any initiative where firearms are surrendered to or purchased by designated law enforcement officials, including state police, county sheriffs, and local police departments in specific jurisdictions. These new provisions aim to ensure proper handling of firearms during buyback programs and prevent the destruction of stolen property without the owner's consent.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S638