New York City’s Times Square Declared As A ‘Gun-Free Zone’

The vice-riddled-turned-tourist-attraction Times Square of New York City is set to be designated as a “gun-free zone” beginning this month, with a new state law limiting the use of firearms in public going into effect. 

According to CNN, this legislation was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul as a response to the Supreme Court’s decision to deny restrictions on concealed gun carry outside of the home. 

While the New York City Council is still settling on the finer details of the bill, areas in which firearms will be barred include government-owned buildings, schools, health facilities, places of worship, public transportation, and Times Square—which attracts over 360,000 passersby daily. 

On the first day of the rollout, the New York Police Department will be at the site to ensure the guidelines are followed under emergency rules, though exceptions will be made for those who live, work, or are transitting through the area. 

Not all are in favor of the ban, however, with CBC reporting that people have already started distributing signs to local businesses to signal that patrons are allowed to carry firearms on the premises. 

To educate residents on these new gun-free zones, signs will be posted up near the entry and exit points of the area, along with video messaging boards in certain locations around the city. 

Furthermore, under the new measure, gun owners will now be required to safely store away firearms if people aged under 18 live in their homes.

[via CNN and CBC, cover image via Wirestock | Dreamstime.com]