Sen. Gillibrand targets ghost guns with new legislation

New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is advancing legislation aimed at inhibiting the proliferation of untraceable firearms, known as “ghost guns.”

Gillibrand’s proposed law targets the distribution of 3D gun-printing blueprints online, a medium through which individuals, including minors, felons, and domestic abusers, can currently obtain these blueprints and instruction manuals without background checks.

The Senator voiced concern over the increasing prevalence of ghost guns in New York and nationwide, as these firearms lack serial numbers and are thus challenging to regulate.

In addition to the bill’s focus on stopping the online distribution of gun blueprints, Gillibrand also pointed out a major security loophole—3D printed guns are often made of plastic, enabling them to evade detection by metal detectors in secured public areas like courthouses and airports.

By regulating both the blueprints and the firearms themselves, the proposed legislation aims to reduce the accessibility of ghost guns and limit their potential for falling into dangerous hands.