Background Checks May be the Future of 3D Printers
A New Proposal in New York
A proposed bill, Bill A2228, is making its way through the Assembly and, if passed, will require anyone buying a 3D printer to pass a background check. This means that if you’re not legally allowed to own a firearm, you won’t be able to buy a 3D printer.
A 3D Printer is a Gateway to Gunmaking
3D printers have made it possible for anyone to produce plastic parts, including some components of firearms. However, it is illegal to print most gun parts in New York. According to Joe Fairley, owner of Ascent Fabrication, a 3D printing business, the proposal is an overreach. “I think this is also gonna face some constitutional problems. I mean, it really comes down to a legal parsing of what are you printing and at what point is it technically a firearm?”
Solution to Ghost Guns
Fairley believes that lawmakers should focus on partial gun kits that produce metal firing components, which are currently unregulated. Another possibility is to require printer manufacturers to install software that prevents gun parts from being printed. “They would need to agree on some algorithm to look at the part and say nope, that is a gun component, you’re not allowed to print that part somehow,” said Fairley. “But I feel like it would be extremely difficult to get to that point.”
Current State of the Bill
The bill is currently in committee with the Assembly, and NEWS10 has reached out to Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, the sponsor of the bill, for comment. We are awaiting a response.
What’s Next?
If the bill is passed, it will have significant implications for 3D printing enthusiasts and businesses. It’s essential to stay informed about the progress of this bill and its potential impact on the 3D printing industry.
FAQs
* What does the proposed bill require?
The proposed bill requires anyone buying a 3D printer to pass a background check.
* What is the purpose of the bill?
The purpose of the bill is to prevent the illegal production of gun parts using 3D printers.
* Will the bill affect 3D printing enthusiasts?
Yes, the bill will affect 3D printing enthusiasts who plan to buy or own a 3D printer.
* What are the potential consequences of the bill?
The potential consequences of the bill include limiting the accessibility of 3D printers and restricting the ability to produce certain types of parts.
Conclusion
The proposed bill has sparked a debate about the regulation of 3D printers and the production of gun parts. While some argue that it’s an overreach, others believe it’s a necessary step to prevent the illegal production of gun parts. As the bill makes its way through the Assembly, it’s essential to stay informed about its progress and potential implications for the 3D printing industry.
