Brickbat: No File Sharing
New York's proposed state budget includes measures requiring 3D printers sold in the state to have software blocking the printing of gun parts or firearms. The legislation would make it a felony to share or possess digital gun-printing files without a gunsmith license. Supporters cite public safety concerns over untraceable 'ghost guns,' while critics argue it unfairly targets lawful users like researchers and hobbyists.
- ▪New York's proposed budget mandates software in 3D printers to prevent printing of gun parts.
- ▪Sharing or possessing digital files for printing guns would be a felony without a state and federal gunsmith license.
- ▪The law aims to combat untraceable 'ghost guns' but faces criticism for impacting non-criminal users.
- ▪Supporters believe the law enhances public safety by limiting access to homemade firearms.
- ▪Critics argue the restrictions will not stop criminals but will burden lawful individuals like journalists and hobbyists.
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3D Printing Brickbat: No File Sharing Charles Oliver | 5.4.2026 4:00 AM Share on FacebookShare on XShare on RedditShare by emailPrint friendly versionCopy page URL Add Reason to Google Media Contact & Reprint Requests <img src="https://d2eehagpk5cl65.cloudfront.net/img/c800x450-w800-q80/uploads/2026/04/3d-printer-legislation-v1-800x450.jpg" style="max-width: 100%; height: auto" width="1200" height="675" title="Interior of a Creality 3D printer" alt="Interior of a Creality 3D printer | Collin Mayfield/Sipa USA/Newscom" /> (Collin Mayfield/Sipa USA/Newscom) New York's proposed state budget includes provisions requiring all 3D printers sold in the state to use software that blocks users from printing gun parts or firearms.
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