New York Wants Psych Evals to Buy a Gun

Published on February 19, 2020
Duration: 10:39

This video discusses proposed legislation in New York (Senate Bill 7065 and Assembly Bill 1589) that would require mental health evaluations for every firearm purchase. The speaker, identifying as a licensed psychotherapist, critiques the bill's broad definition of mental health, potential for bias, time and cost implications, and the broad scope of information the state could acquire. The legislation proposes a Class D felony for non-compliance, punishable by up to seven years in prison.

Quick Summary

New York's proposed Senate Bill 7065 and Assembly Bill 1589 would require a mental health evaluation for every firearm purchase. A psychotherapist speaker highlights concerns about the broad definition of 'mental health evaluation,' potential bias, significant costs, and logistical hurdles, noting non-compliance could lead to a Class D felony.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to New York's Proposed Gun Law
  2. 00:15Details of Senate Bill 7065 and Assembly Bill 1589
  3. 01:55Bill Text: Mental Health Evaluation Requirement
  4. 02:57Mental Health Law Aspects of the Bill
  5. 03:27Penal Law Consequences for Non-Compliance
  6. 03:46Logistical and Practical Concerns
  7. 04:01Critique of 'Mental Health Evaluation' Definition
  8. 04:33Nature of Mental Health Assessments
  9. 05:04Subjectivity and Potential for Bias in Evaluations
  10. 06:47Scope and Depth of Evaluations
  11. 07:41Cost and Accessibility of Evaluations
  12. 08:46Bottlenecks and Wait Times
  13. 09:17Slippery Slope and Future Implications
  14. 09:51Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What new law is being proposed in New York regarding firearm purchases?

New York has proposed Senate Bill 7065 and Assembly Bill 1589, which would require individuals to undergo a mental health evaluation before purchasing any firearm, rifle, or shotgun. This evaluation must result in approval before the sale can proceed.

What are the potential consequences for not complying with New York's proposed mental health evaluation law for gun purchases?

Failure to comply with the proposed New York law, which mandates a mental health evaluation for every firearm purchase, would result in a Class D felony. This offense is punishable by up to seven years in prison.

What are the main concerns raised about New York's proposed mental health evaluation requirement for gun buyers?

Concerns include the broad and subjective definition of 'mental health evaluation,' the potential for bias from evaluators, significant costs and time commitments for individuals, logistical challenges in accessing evaluations, and the risk of future government overreach into personal rights.

Who is exempt from New York's proposed mental health evaluation law for firearm purchases?

Under the proposed New York legislation, manufacturers and importers of firearms are exempt from the mental health evaluation requirement. However, licensed dealers (FFLs) are not exempt and would be responsible for ensuring compliance from purchasers.

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