The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has upheld New York’s firearm regulations in its ruling on Frey v. City of New York. The decision maintains the prohibition on carrying firearms in areas such as Times Square and public transit. The lawsuit also contested the state’s ban on open carry and the provision granting New York City the authority to issue its own firearm carry permits.
Following the court’s decision, Attorney General Letitia James expressed support for the outcome, noting its significance for New York City’s ongoing efforts to address gun violence, "New Yorkers deserve to feel safe on public transportation and everywhere in our state, and today's decision affirms that right," she said in a press release. She further emphasize the importance of common-sense legislation, "Common-sense gun laws save lives, keep guns out of sensitive community spaces, and help address the gun violence crisis."
The recent court ruling reinforces the Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA), particularly its provisions designating certain locations as sensitive places where firearms cannot be carried. The Act has been the subject of ongoing litigation, and in October 2024, Attorney General James similarly welcomed a decision upholding other provisions of the CCIA. In her statement, she noted the judiciary’s support for New York’s gun laws and reaffirmed her office’s commitment to defending them.
The U.S. Court of Appeals’ decision represents further judicial support for New York’s firearm regulations. The Second Circuit’s ruling strengthens Attorney General James’ efforts to uphold restrictions on firearms, particularly in densely populated areas. The decision supports the state’s authority to limit the presence of firearms in high-risk environments and to enforce measures aimed at reducing the threat of gun violence.
