Albany, N.Y. Jan 16 2013 - A new gun law for New York State is expected to pass the Assembly, Tuesday. The law would increase the ban on assault style weapons. It will also not allow the sale of guns to those deemed mentally ill.
It was passed in the Senate on Monday with a 43 to 18 vote. This vote comes days after Governor Cuomo outlined his gun control plan in the State of the State address.
"In this package we not only addressing all the major issues that we set out to fix but we've done so in an inclusive and bipartisan way that has provided us with a comprehensive bill that so many of us can really be proud of. As we have said all along this is not about taking anyone's rights away but about securing the right of all New Yorkers to live in a safe and free society," Republican State Senator Jeffrey Klein said.
Here are some of the key details. The law broadens the definition of assault rifles to include those that have flash suppressors, a pistol grip or any other military-style features. A new gun permit process will help the state better track gun owners. Ammunition magazines will be reduced from 10 to seven rounds.
Also, a therapist who believes a mental health patient used a gun illegally is expected to report it to authorities. Not all lawmakers believe this law is the answer.
"At the end of the day I don't think this really solves the problem or makes the community safer. That's not really dealing with what's causing the crime which is people who get their hands on illegal guns then commit terrible acts," Republican State Senator Michael Ranzenhoffer said.
Other lawmakers against the bill said this law would not save any life except for one.
"It will only save the political life of a governor who wants to be president," one lawmaker said.
Again, the Assembly vote is taking place later this morning and is expected to pass.

Source:WKBW