Gun show operators to follow new rules

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman is in Buffalo Thursday, detailing his agreement with two major New York State gun show operators.  The agreement is intended to restrict the sale of illegal firearms.

The operators Niagara Frontier Collectors Inc, in Chautauqua County, and NEACA, Inc., in Saratoga County, hold gun shows throughout the state throughout the year.

"Our investigation demonstrated how the 'off the books' sale of guns presents a great risk to public safety. This agreement builds upon our work by holding gun show operators responsible for the purchases made at their events," Attorney General Schneiderman said. "Gun violence is an epidemic, and my office is working with gun show operators to create simple guidelines to ensure that these deadly weapons don't make it into the hands of felons, terrorists, the dangerously mentally ill and others that could not pass a background check. It’s a win-win for public safety and the Constitution."

In the agreement, gun show operators must follow five requirements:

• Operators must tag guns entering and exiting the show.
• Operators must ensure dealers have access to background checks.
• Operators must alert law enforcement of scheduled gun shows
• Operators must call law enforcement to assist if violations occur
• Operators must provide signage that clearly states background checks must be done

Schneiderman wants to see a law passed that sets up the same requirement for all gun shows in the state. Gun show operators would be liable if guns are sold without background checks.