CAPITAL REGION, N.Y. NEWS10 — Recent legislation signed by Governor Hochul seeks to address gun violence and enhance safety for vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by domestic violence.
Under the new law, firearms will now bear warning labels similar to those found on tobacco products, informing owners of the dangers associated with gun ownership, such as unintentional deaths to children and increased risks during domestic disputes. Michael Whitley, the Director of Law Enforcement Training with the State Office for Prevention of Domestic Violence, highlighted the critical impact of firearms in domestic violence situations, stating that victims are five times more likely to be killed by an abuser with access to a gun. Tragically, around 70 women in the U.S. are killed each month in domestic violence-related incidents.
To further combat domestic violence, Coordinated Community Response teams, which consist of local law enforcement, district attorneys, and advocacy services, will receive additional state funding. Whitley noted the importance of collaboration among key players in the response to domestic violence, emphasizing that law enforcement frequently responds to domestic violence calls.
In Troy, community initiatives like Project RISE are focused on preventing gun access among youth. This initiative recently hosted a community meeting aimed at engaging local residents in discussions about their needs and how to allocate funds effectively to support their safety. Damon Bacote, Deputy Commissioner for the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, expressed the importance of community involvement in addressing these critical issues.
Mental health professionals, such as licensed counselor Sativa Bigelow, emphasize the long-lasting effects of domestic violence, particularly the prevalence of chronic PTSD among survivors. Bigelow noted that recovery can take years and is often hindered by a lack of resources.
So far this year, law enforcement in New York has seized over 7,700 illegal firearms, underscoring the urgency of addressing gun violence and its impact on community safety.