Now those who want to buy weapons in New York will be checked social networks
'11.07.2022'
Nadezhda Verbitskaya
New York State is implementing a new strategy for screening gun permit applicants. People wishing to carry concealed weapons will be required to provide lists of their social media accounts for "verification of their character and behaviour," reports A.P. News.
This approach is welcomed by many Democrats and gun control advocacy groups. But some experts are raising questions about how the law will be enforced. Some of the local officials who will be tasked with reviewing social media content are wondering if they will have the resources they need. And whether the law is constitutional at all.
According to Peter Kehoe, executive director of the New York Sheriffs Association, sheriffs have not received additional money or staff to process applications, as per the new requirements. The law, he said, violates the Second Amendment to the US Constitution (the right to bear arms). And while applicants must provide their social media accounts, he doesn't think local officials will actually look at them.
The new requirement will come into effect in September.
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According to the law, applicants must provide a list of social media accounts for the last 3 years. It does not specify whether applicants will be required to grant the verifier access to personal accounts that are not visible to the general public. Local sheriff's officers, judges, or county clerks will view these profiles. And to check whether the applicants made posts suggesting dangerous behavior.
The law will also require candidates to undergo many hours of instruction in safe handling of weapons. And also to prove that they are good at shooting, provide 4 references and pass an in-person interview.
