New York state lawmakers and law enforcement are advocating for a new bill aimed at curbing the proliferation of homemade devices that can convert regular firearms into machine guns, increasing their fire rate significantly. These devices, known as "auto sears," can be created using 3D printers and can enable firearms to fire continuously as long as the trigger is held down.
The number of auto sears confiscated by law enforcement across the U.S. has surged in recent years. In 2019, there were 658 devices seized, but that number grew to 5,816 by 2023, according to data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is collaborating with state Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal to promote legislation that would make it illegal to share online blueprints for manufacturing these devices.
Bragg emphasized the need for law enforcement to adapt to technological advancements, stating, "As technology evolves, we have to keep pace in law enforcement." He noted an increase in 3D-printed guns observed in criminal cases and gun buyback events.
Recent cases highlighted by the Manhattan DA revealed disturbing trends, including one suspect allegedly selling firearms and modifications, including auto sears, from federal prison while promoting extremist views. Another case involved an auto sear linked to a member of a gang implicated in gun trafficking.
The proposed bill, currently in committee in the state Senate, requires approval from both chambers of the New York State Legislature before being presented to Governor Kathy Hochul. Hoylman-Sigal voiced concern about the dangers posed by unrestricted 3D printing technology, stating, "New technology has created the possibility for anyone, not just registered gun manufacturers, to self-manufacture guns, magazines, and rapid modification devices, creating a dangerous loophole in our state gun laws." Rosenthal echoed this sentiment, asserting that "no one should be allowed to create an instrument of war with a 3D printer.