New York bill proposed to prohibit online sharing of blueprints for machine gun conversion kits.

New York state officials are taking steps to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms by proposing legislation aimed at prohibiting the distribution of digital blueprints that enable individuals to 3D print gun components capable of converting semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons. These components, referred to as auto-sears, can be installed in a variety of firearms, including popular models such as Glock pistols and AR-15 rifles, allowing users to discharge entire magazines with a single trigger pull.

The rise of advanced 3D printing technology has facilitated the production of these firearm parts in personal settings, significantly contributing to the increased presence of fully automatic firearms in New York City. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg highlighted this issue, likening the current situation to the previously identified “Iron Pipeline”—a term that refers to the illegal flow of firearms into the city from regions with more permissive gun laws. Bragg remarked on the new challenge posed by what he termed the “Kitchen Pipeline,” signifying the ease of access to firearm manufacturing at home.

To address these growing concerns, Bragg recently announced a new legislative initiative alongside State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal. This proposed bill seeks to make it a criminal offense to sell or distribute the digital files necessary for manufacturing 3D-printed firearm components. This measure is part of ongoing efforts by state lawmakers to tackle the increasingly prevalent issue of ghost guns—firearms that can be produced at home and lack serial numbers, thus complicating police investigations and efforts to keep firearms away from potential criminals.

In 2023, separate bills introduced by Hoylman-Sigal and Rosenthal proposed making the manufacturing of 3D-printed gun parts a felony, while the distribution of related digital blueprints would be classified as a misdemeanor. These bills—S7364 and A7489—are currently under review in legislative committees.

Under existing law in New York, the possession or manufacture of auto-sears is illegal. The new bill would impose penalties, potentially including up to one year in prison, for individuals distributing such digital files, even if they are based out of state. Currently, these files are readily accessible on various CAD file-sharing platforms, which raises ongoing concerns regarding enforcement and public safety.

The integration of new technologies into firearms manufacturing has exposed significant gaps in existing gun control laws, creating challenges for law enforcement. Notable instances of illegal distribution of 3D-printed firearms have already surfaced. For example, last year, Hayden Espinosa was indicted for illegally selling firearm parts, including auto-sears, to an undercover officer while incarcerated. Similarly, Christopher Fox was indicted for creating assault rifle components in his apartment, having invested considerable resources in 3D-printing technology.

Recent statistics from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives reveal concerning trends regarding the manufacturing of conversion devices in New York, with 53 such devices recovered in 2023, compared to a staggering total of 5,816 recovered nationwide. The state’s legislative and law enforcement agencies are now faced with the urgent task of adapting to these evolving challenges within the field of gun control and public safety.