NY S00658

Requires all firearm possessors in New York to obtain a firearms safety certificate, with possession without one constituting criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree (class A misdemeanor)

Mandates completion of at least 5 hours of classroom instruction covering safe use and handling, storage methods, child safety, and applicable federal, state, and local firearm laws, plus at least 2 hours of live firing instruction at a shooting range

Requires applicants to pass a written examination with a score of 75% or higher administered by the sheriff or police commissioner, with up to three attempts allowed before retraining is required

Firearms safety certificates are valid for 2 years, must be stored with firearms or carried when possessing a firearm outside the home, and are non-transferable

Exempts police officers, peace officers, retired law enforcement receiving pension benefits, licensed firearm manufacturers and dealers, nonresidents participating in lawful recreational activities, and persons using a firearm in self-defense at a certificate holder's residence