Thousands opposed to gun law in Albany

ALBANY, N.Y. (WIVB) - Thousands opposed to the NY SAFE Act came to Albany on Thursday, carrying signs, shouting slogans and making speeches right at Governor Andrew Cuomo's door.

Buses started arriving in Albany early in the morning, carrying thousands of travelers from across the state, including a large contingency from WNY. Everyone who came Thursday sought to send a message to Governor Cuomo and the State Legislature.

PHOTOS | See just how large the rally was in our photo gallery

"Repeal the law" was among the chants heard during the noontime rally.

Sen. George Maziarz said, "Repeal would be very difficult. I think more emphasis is going to be placed in the courts, as far as trying to get it struck down."

As the rally went on in Albany, Genesee County became the last WNY county to pass a resolution stating the NY SAFE Act should be repealed.

NRA President David Keene said, "I suspect this [rally] will have some effect on the Legislature. What the governor's doing, you'll notice if you look around this country, and I said he was sacrificing the rights of the people of New York on the altar of his own ambition."

The new law limits magazines to seven rounds and tightens the definition of what constitutes a legal assault weapon.

"It's unconstitutional, doesn't belong here," argued Scott Hassan. "It's not going to stop crime. It's going to turn persons like myself and all these people into criminals."

And while the governor's office and state lawmakers are discussing possible amendments, many don't feel the "tweaks" are going to address the real issues.

Brian Partlow said, "They're going to make it where Hollywood producers can bring guns into the state. Who cares? That's for movies. That's not for protection."

And one WNY man News 4 spoke to Thursday said normally he doesn't like to get involved in politics or rallies, but this issue was so important to him he traveled all the way to Albany to make sure his voice was heard.