PBA of New York State applauds Hochul for leadership on disguised gun ban

Says disguised guns that look like toys put children and law enforcement at risk

The Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBANYS) extended its deepest appreciation to Gov. Kathy Hochul for “her leadership in adding firearms made to look like toys to the definition of ‘disguised guns,’ which are illegal in the state of New York.”

Specifically, the bill prohibits the manufacture, design or sale of weapons capable of causing severe injury and death, “but resemble toys and pose a clear threat to the safety of both children who mistake them for toys and the public at large.”

Manuel Vilar, PBANYS vice president/chief administrative officer and Parks Police sergeants director, said, “On behalf of the nearly 1,200 members of the PBA of New York State, I’d like to congratulate the governor on her decisive leadership in protecting the residents of New York state. While we recognize the right of lawful gun owners to possess firearms, there is simply no reason to own a firearm that is made to resemble a toy. Disguised firearms place children at risk who might mistake it for a toy, or cause law enforcement to react slowly to a lethal situation for fear of accidently shooting someone whom they believe to be unarmed, but in reality, is wielding a deadly weapon.”

Established in 2011, the Police Benevolent Association of New York State is a law enforcement labor union representing the interests of approximately 1,200 members of the New York State Agency Police Services Unit (APSU). The PBA of New York State is the exclusive bargaining agent for the New York State University (SUNY) Police, the New York State Environmental Conservation Police, the New York State Park Police, and the New York State Forest Rangers.