New York state recently made changes to its laws regarding the possession and use of stun guns and tasers. These changes, which went into effect on January 1st, 2022, aim to provide more clarity and consistency in the state's regulations on these devices.

One of the most significant changes to the law is that possession of stun guns and tasers is now legal in New York City. Prior to this change, it was illegal to possess or sell these devices within the city limits. This means that residents of New York City can now legally purchase and possess stun guns and tasers for personal use. However, it's important to note that the use of these devices in the commission of a crime or against a police officer is still illegal.

Another change to the law is the removal of the age restriction for possession of stun guns and tasers. Prior to this change, individuals had to be 21 years or older to possess these devices. However, now any adult can legally purchase and possess a stun gun or taser.

The new law also clarifies the regulations around carrying a concealed stun gun or taser. Prior to these changes, it was illegal to carry a concealed stun gun or taser without a permit, however, the law did not specify the process or criteria for obtaining such a permit. The new law now states that individuals can apply for a permit to carry a concealed stun gun or taser from their local county sheriff's office. The permit will be issued if the applicant can demonstrate a "proper cause" for the permit, such as for self-defense.

Additionally, the new law now allows for possession of stun guns and tasers for certain individuals who were previously prohibited from possessing them. This includes individuals who have been convicted of certain non-violent crimes, such as drug offenses and individuals who have been convicted of crimes of domestic violence, if they have completed their sentence and have not been convicted of a crime for at least five years.

In summary, New York state has recently made changes to its laws regarding the possession and use of stun guns and tasers. These changes now allow for legal possession of stun guns and tasers in New York City, remove the age restriction for possession, provide a clear process for obtaining a permit to carry a concealed stun gun or taser and allow certain individuals who were previously prohibited from possessing them to do so. These changes aim to provide more clarity and consistency in the state's regulations on these devices, while still maintaining safety and security for all residents.

See the cost of Stun Guns and TASERS.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The laws and regulations regarding stun guns, TASER devices, and other electronic defense weapons can vary widely by jurisdiction and can change over time. Therefore, it's important to consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities to obtain accurate and up-to-date information that applies to your specific circumstances.