As New York authorities begin a series of visits across upstate to explain the new gun control law, a New York City police officer argued on National television that handguns pose a more serious threat than assault weapons.
New York's tough new gun law rolled out after the Newtown school massacre and West Webster firefighter ambush continues to be the subject of debate.
Representatives of the state police and Division of Criminal Justice Services have scheduled a series of forums starting this week to talk about the "NY SAFE Act" and answer questions about changes in the law governing ownership of assault-style semi-automatic weapons and high-capacity magazines. The new law adopted earlier this month also requires background checks for ammunition purchases.
The state-owned Empire State Plaza convention center in Albany welcomed droves of gun enthusiasts to its annual antique and collectible weapons show Saturday.
Absent were the protestors and the media frenzy that accompanied another gun show earlier this month in Saratoga Springs. The Albany show operated under new rules that include requiring weapons to be tagged so their sales can be tracked and background checks conducted on buyers.
On Sunday, NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly appeared on CBS's "Face the Nation" where he said New York City’s real enemy is illegal handguns.
The association had a table at the Albany gun show where patrons could sign a petition calling for the repeal of the new gun laws.
Calls to the N.Y.P.D., the Albany County D.A.'s office and the New York State Division of Criminal Justicce Services were not returned in time for broadcast.
