Bill > A04988

This bill modifies the legal definition of assault weapons in New York's penal law by removing certain characteristics that previously classified a firearm as an "assault weapon" and making some technical adjustments to the existing language. Specifically, the bill eliminates "thumbhole stock" as a defining feature for semiautomatic rifles and shotguns, and renumbers the subsequent characteristics. For semiautomatic rifles, the bill maintains key identifying features such as detachable magazines, folding stocks, pistol grips, second handgrips, bayonet mounts, flash suppressors, and grenade launchers. For semiautomatic shotguns, the bill keeps identifying characteristics like folding stocks, second handgrips, fixed magazine capacity over seven rounds, and the ability to accept detachable magazines. These changes subtly modify the criteria for what constitutes an assault weapon under New York law, potentially affecting firearm classification and regulation. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, allowing for prompt implementation of these definitional changes.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4988