Gov: disarm all domestic abusers

ALBANY — Gov. Cuomo on Wednesday proposed taking away firearms from anyone charged with domestic abuse.

Under the bill Cuomo will propose as part of his Jan. 3 State of the State address, the state would require the immediate removal of all firearms when someone is hit with a misdemeanor or felony domestic violence charge.

Under current law, a person convicted on a felony domestic violence charge must surrender their guns. But misdemeanor convictions are not covered.

The proposal would also require that all firearms, including rifles and shotguns, be surrendered to law enforcement when a judicial order of protection is issued or a firearm license is suspended or revoked due to a felony or “serious” offense charge or conviction.

Currently, such action is at the discretion of the judges and lasts until the case is resolved.

Cuomo said that in 2016, firearms were used in 25 domestic homicides in the state.

The state Assembly has passed similar legislation with overwhelming Democratic and Republican support. But the measure has died in the GOP-controlled Senate.

New York State Rifle and Pistol Association President Tom King, an NRA board member, said he wants to see the legislation Cuomo introduces before commenting.