The State That Can Now Disarm You Over a Phone Call

Published on October 29, 2025
Duration: 7:48

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, provides an expert analysis of New York Assembly Bill AB 544, which significantly expands police authority to seize firearms. The law allows for temporary firearm custody based on a 'reasonable belief' or 'reasonable suspicion' standard, lowering the threshold from probable cause required for arrest. This measure, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, also extends the holding period for seized firearms to 120 hours, impacting New York residents' Second Amendment rights during domestic violence investigations.

Quick Summary

New York Assembly Bill AB 544, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, allows police to seize firearms based on a 'reasonable belief' or 'reasonable suspicion' standard, lowering the legal threshold significantly. This expansion of authority, analyzed by William Kirk of Washington Gun Law, also extends the holding period for seized firearms to 120 hours, impacting Second Amendment rights during domestic violence investigations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to NY Disarmament Laws
  2. 00:57New York Assembly Bill AB 544
  3. 01:37Amendments to Criminal Procedure Law 140.10
  4. 02:58Reasonable Belief Standard for Seizure
  5. 03:27Probable Cause vs. Reasonable Suspicion
  6. 05:29Extended Holding Period for Seized Weapons
  7. 06:17Impact on New York Residents

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new law in New York that allows for firearm seizure?

New York Assembly Bill AB 544, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, significantly expands police authority to seize firearms. It allows officers to take temporary custody of firearms based on a 'reasonable belief' or 'reasonable suspicion' standard, even without an arrest.

How has the legal standard for firearm seizure changed in New York?

Previously, firearm seizure often required probable cause or an arrest. The new law in New York allows seizure based on a lower standard of 'reasonable belief' or 'reasonable suspicion,' meaning officers can disarm individuals without needing to establish probable cause for an arrest.

What is the new holding period for seized firearms in New York?

Under the new law in New York, the government now has up to 120 hours to obtain a judicial order to keep seized firearms, an increase from the previous 48-hour limit. This extended period is also supported by the 'reasonable suspicion' standard.

Who is analyzing the new New York firearm seizure law?

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law and an expert in legal analysis of specific statutes, is providing an authoritative explanation of New York's AB 544 and its implications for firearm owners.

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