New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A09262

Introduced
11/21/25  
Refer
11/21/25  

Caption

Relates to removing the maximum age limit for firearms instruction exemptions; removes upper age limits of sixteen and twenty-one.

Impact

The implications of A09262 on state laws are significant as it alters existing regulations that previously limited youth engagement in firearms training. Supporters argue that this change cultivates a culture of safety, education, and responsible firearm usage from a younger age. By expanding access to firearms education, the bill seeks to enhance the overall proficiency and safety measures associated with firearm handling, potentially reducing accidental incidents involving firearms among this age group. It is viewed as a necessary legislative step to modernize educational frameworks surrounding firearms safety.

Summary

Bill A09262 proposes an amendment to the New York Penal Law by removing the maximum age limit for firearms instruction exemptions. Previously, individuals under the age of sixteen were restricted from certain firearm possession and usage contexts, particularly within supervised environments such as shooting ranges. With this amendment, the bill enables individuals who are twelve years or older to receive firearms instruction, thereby expanding the scope of eligibility for supervised firearm training. This legislation is aimed at promoting responsible gun ownership and education among younger individuals, ensuring they have the opportunity to learn about firearms in a controlled and safe setting.

Contention

Nonetheless, the bill has faced opposition from various groups concerned about the potential dangers associated with allowing younger individuals access to firearms training. Critics argue that removing age restrictions might lead to increased risks of accidents and misuse of firearms among minors. They emphasize the importance of maintaining strict regulations that ensure both safety and responsibility in firearms handling. This ongoing debate highlights a broader societal concern regarding youth exposure to firearms and the balance between education and risk prevention.

Companion Bills

NY S02014

Same As Relates to removing the maximum age limit for firearms instruction exemptions; removes upper age limits of sixteen and twenty-one.

Previously Filed As

NY S02014

Relates to removing the maximum age limit for firearms instruction exemptions; removes upper age limits of sixteen and twenty-one.

NY S08755

Removes the 18 year old age limitation for the adoption of a foreign-born person.

NY A09498

Removes the 18 year old age limitation for the adoption of a foreign-born person.

NY S08855

Tolls the statute of limitations for endangering the welfare of a child until such child reaches the age of twenty-three.

NY A07984

Tolls the statute of limitations for endangering the welfare of a child until such child reaches the age of twenty-three.

NY S09713

Reduces the speed for owner liability for failure of operator to comply with certain posted maximum speed limits to more than seven miles per hour over such posted maximum speed limits.

NY SB827

Damages; increasing maximum limitation on compensation for noneconomic loss; removing exceptions to limitation on noneconomic loss compensation. Effective date.

NY SB827

Damages; increasing maximum limitation on compensation for noneconomic loss; removing exceptions to limitation on noneconomic loss compensation. Effective date.

NY S09781

Removes statute of limitations for certain civil actions related to child sexual assault offenses.

NY S01985

Requires police officers to take temporary custody of firearms for not less than one hundred twenty hours when responding to reports of family violence.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.